The Republic of Guinea was honored at the 21st edition of the African Development Prize, held from October 22 to 24, 2026, in Kigali, Rwanda, as part of the African Business Forum. On this occasion, General Cheick Gadiri Condé, Director General of Guinea's Customs, received the prestigious distinction of Best African Manager for Customs Modernization and Financial Security. This continental meeting brought together institutional leaders, public decision-makers, business leaders, and experts from several African countries to discuss issues related to the digital economy, investment, and the development of African businesses.
The participation of the Guinean delegation in this edition of the African Development Prize was part of the recognition accorded to the Director General of Guinea's Customs, whose reforms and performances are now praised beyond national borders. As head of a strategic administration for public finances, General Cheick Gadiri Condé plays a central role in mobilizing state revenue, securing commercial exchanges, protecting the national economy, and fighting against fraud and illicit trafficking. His commitment and vision have contributed to strengthening the position of the customs administration among the country's most performing institutions.
Since his arrival at the General Directorate of Customs, several structural reforms have been undertaken around four major axes: the recruitment and training of young cadres, the rejuvenation and feminization of responsibility posts, the strengthening of capacities through continuous training of agents, and the progressive digitalization of customs procedures and structures throughout the national territory. Under his leadership, Guinea's Customs has recorded remarkable results in terms of public revenue mobilization. The administration has notably achieved record levels of contribution to the national budget, thus consolidating its role as a pillar of public policy financing and the country's economic development.
General Cheick Gadiri Condé is also recognized for his expertise within the World Customs Organization and in the field of intellectual property law, enjoying a reputation that extends far beyond the national framework. This distinction from the African Development Prize appears as the consecration of a career marked by rigor, discipline, integrity, innovation, and a sense of public interest. Beyond the tribute paid to a personality, this award highlights the modernization efforts undertaken by Guinea's Customs in recent years.
The award also testifies to the ability of Guinean institutions to comply with international standards of performance and governance. The Kigali forum recalled the importance of sharing experiences among African development actors and the need to promote initiatives that drive economic and social transformation. Through this continental recognition, Guinea confirms its willingness to actively contribute to the construction of a more integrated, competitive, and innovative Africa, with a greater focus on institutional performance.
The recognition of General Cheick Gadiri Condé's leadership and achievements serves as a testament to Guinea's progress in customs modernization and financial security. His efforts have not only enhanced the country's revenue mobilization but also improved its ranking among international institutions. The distinction is an encouragement to other African countries to prioritize institutional performance and modernization.
As Guinea continues to play an active role in the African Business Forum and other continental initiatives, its commitment to promoting economic development and integration is clear. The country's achievements in customs modernization and financial security will likely serve as a model for other nations seeking to enhance their institutional performance and competitiveness.
Key points
- General Cheick Gadiri Condé received the Best African Manager for Customs Modernization and Financial Security award at the 21st African Development Prize.
- The award recognizes Guinea's efforts in customs modernization and financial security under General Condé's leadership.
- The recognition highlights Guinea's commitment to contributing actively to the construction of a more integrated, competitive, and innovative Africa.
