For over two decades, the names Kaporo-Rails, Kipé 2, and Dimesse in Conakry's Ratoma commune have evoked painful memories of brutal forced evictions and massive destruction. In 1998, over 20,000 citizens were forcibly evicted, resulting in several deaths, injuries, and political arrests. Twenty-one years later, the situation repeated itself, with over 2,500 buildings destroyed on February 25, 2019.
The 1998 and 2019 evictions left deep scars on the affected populations, with many victims losing their homes, schools, and livelihoods. Pregnant women, elderly people, and children were left without shelter, exposed to harsh weather conditions and insecurity. The trauma and sense of abandonment by the state have been long-lasting, with many victims struggling to rebuild their lives.
After years of exhausting court battles, ignored petitions, and unfulfilled electoral promises, the case of Kaporo-Rails, Kipé 2, and Dimesse has finally seen justice. President Mamadi Doumbouya has chosen to break with the indifference of previous regimes, opting for moral courage, empathy, and historical reparation.
On September 14, 2024, the government marked a significant milestone with the resettlement of victims in Wonkifong. Additionally, on November 27, 2025, 600 land titles were handed over to the victims, restoring their dignity as citizens. These actions demonstrate the state's recognition of past wrongdoings and its commitment to making amends.
The compensation provided by President Doumbouya's administration is seen as a crucial step towards national reconciliation. By acknowledging the state's role in the victims' suffering, the government has taken a significant step towards healing the wounds of the past. The gesture is expected to have a positive impact on the lives of those affected and on the country's overall stability.
Alpha Abdoulaye Diallo, writing in Le Populaire on November 2, 2026, praised the president's decision, highlighting its significance in promoting social cohesion and preventing similar injustices in the future. The article emphasized that the state's actions will help to prevent the repetition of such traumatic events and promote a more just and equitable society.
The successful implementation of the compensation plan is a testament to the government's commitment to justice and accountability. The initiative is expected to have a lasting impact on the country, promoting trust in the government and its institutions.
Key points
- President Mamadi Doumbouya provided compensation to victims of forced evictions in Conakry.
- The evictions resulted in significant loss of life, property, and livelihoods.
- The compensation is seen as a crucial step towards national reconciliation and promoting social cohesion.
