The "Parc du Citoyen" sports complex was inaugurated on September 30th in Conakry, Guinea, by Djiba Diakité, Minister and Director of the Presidential Cabinet. The complex, entirely financed by Rio Tinto, aims to provide a space for young people to develop their talents, forge their aspirations, and flourish in a suitable sports environment.
The project was declared of national interest by the Head of State in September 2022, and the first phase of the "Parc du Citoyen", built by GPC, has been made available to the youth of Guinea. The infrastructure, located between Kaloum and Dixinn, near the November 8th interchange, is dedicated to the practice of several sports disciplines.
The complex spans thirteen hectares and features seventeen sports facilities, including a FIFA-standard football field with synthetic grass, five basketball courts, two tennis courts, an athletics track, and a multisport field for handball and volleyball. The complex also includes a parking lot for three hundred vehicles.
The inauguration ceremony brought together high-ranking officials from the Presidency, several ministers, including the Minister of Sports, cadres from Rio Tinto, civil and military leaders, as well as the local population from Kaloum, Dixinn, and elsewhere. Djiba Diakité praised the vision of President Mamadi Doumbouya, describing the complex as "beautiful and magnificent".
Elias Scafidas, Director of International Operations at Rio Tinto, stated that the project is part of a broader ambition to make Simandou a driver of inclusive and sustainable development, while illustrating the company's commitment to local content. According to him, the project was designed and built by Guineans for Guineans, with the contribution of local talents and artists.
Kadé Camara, Deputy Director of Attractiveness and Promotion of Guinea at the Guinea Development Board (GDB), emphasized that the leisure and relaxation spaces in the Park enhance the country's attractiveness and embody "a resolutely modern, welcoming, inclusive, and proud Guinea". She believes that the infrastructure can become a vibrant cultural hub where music, dance, crafts, and creativity can flourish.
The "Parc du Citoyen" is a symbol of pride and opportunity for Guinea, and a testament to Rio Tinto's commitment to the country and its willingness to accompany the government in its ambitious urban modernization program. The complex is expected to stimulate the local economy through events, catering, and services, benefiting young people, women, artisans, and local small and medium-sized enterprises.
Key points
- The "Parc du Citoyen" sports complex was inaugurated in Conakry, Guinea, providing a new space for young people to develop their talents.
- The complex features seventeen sports facilities, including a FIFA-standard football field and five basketball courts.
- The project was entirely financed by Rio Tinto and designed and built by Guineans for Guineans.
