Guinean Minister of Youth, Lansana Béa Diallo, has spoken out against the low wages earned by many young employees in the country's private sector. He made these comments on September 30, addressing several high-ranking officials. Diallo highlighted the significant disparities between the revenue generated by workers and their actual salaries. He specifically mentioned the case of young employees in security companies.
According to Diallo, it is unacceptable that some young workers in security companies earn as little as 600,000 Guinean francs (GNF) per month. He contrasted this with the much higher revenues generated by these companies, suggesting that the wealth is not being fairly distributed among employees. The minister argued that this situation is a reality that needs to be addressed, emphasizing that entrepreneurs should prioritize sharing the wealth generated by their businesses with their employees.
Diallo stressed that low wages do not allow workers to live with dignity. He expressed concern that young people are often forced to beg or struggle to make ends meet due to their meager salaries. The minister emphasized the need for the government to regulate working conditions and remuneration for young people, ensuring that they are fairly compensated for their work.
The minister defended his vision of a more equitable distribution of wealth, rejecting accusations that his stance is driven by socialist or communist ideology. He shared his personal experience of prioritizing the sharing of his own wealth, stating that he has given away 80% of his earnings because he believes he does not need it.
Diallo called for a stronger connection between Guinea's mineral resources and the development of its human capital. He argued that the country's natural resources should contribute to improving the living conditions and skills of its population. The minister emphasized that this goal will require effort, training, investment, and partnerships.
To address the issue of youth employment, Diallo invited companies to facilitate access to internships, first professional experiences, and mentorship for young people. He encouraged entrepreneurs to look beyond a candidate's curriculum vitae and consider their potential. The minister urged companies to open their doors to young people and provide them with opportunities to develop their skills.
Diallo concluded that addressing youth employment is a shared responsibility among the government, companies, partners, and young people themselves. He emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach that goes beyond simply extracting natural resources, aiming instead to develop competencies, technicians, engineers, entrepreneurs, and innovators who can drive Guinea's growth.
Key points
- Guinean Minister of Youth Lansana Béa Diallo criticizes low wages for young workers in the private sector.
- Diallo calls for a fairer distribution of wealth and better working conditions for young people.
- The minister emphasizes the need for a stronger connection between Guinea's mineral resources and human capital development.
