On October 28, 2026, Souleymane Thianguel Bah transferred leadership of Guinea's Ministry of Communication, Digital Economy, and Innovation to Fana Soumah. The handover ceremony, held in Koloma, was attended by several government officials, departmental staff, and media representatives. Bah highlighted the challenges posed by the ministry's new scope, which now includes communication, postal services, telecommunications, digital economy, and innovation. He assured Soumah of the support of ministry staff and its leadership.
The ceremony was presided over by Hadja Sérégbé Keïta, Deputy Secretary General of the Government. Soumah returns to the ministry after a previous stint, where he worked with Bah and other familiar faces, including the secretary general and the chief of staff. Bah emphasized that this trio has prior experience working together and expressed confidence that they can continue to function effectively. He encouraged them to work together for the benefit of the Guinean people and in accordance with established rules.
Bah noted that Soumah will inherit a merged department, combining the former Ministry of Posts, Telecommunications, and Digital Economy with communication. He described this change as a complication, but expressed optimism that the experienced staff will be able to rise to the challenges of development and prosperity. The ministry's expanded scope presents new opportunities and expectations for growth.
In his address, Bah reassured Soumah of his availability and that of the ministry's staff to present ongoing dossiers and provide support. He promised to work together to ensure the president's expectations are met. This handover occurs after Bah served as interim minister for two months following the departure of Mourana Soumah.
Soumah's return to the ministry marks a reunion with familiar colleagues, including Thierno Hamidou Barry, Mohamed Lamine Touré, and Mariama Barry. The new minister will build on existing foundations and work to achieve the government's objectives. The continuity of leadership is expected to facilitate a smooth transition.
The event was attended by various stakeholders, including representatives from the media and communication sectors. The presence of these stakeholders underscores the importance of the ministry's role in promoting communication and digital development in Guinea. The country's communication landscape is expected to evolve under Soumah's leadership.
The handover ceremony marked a significant milestone in the ministry's history, as it adapts to its new scope and responsibilities. With Bah's assurance of support, Soumah is poised to drive progress in the ministry and contribute to Guinea's development. The country's future in communication and digital economy looks promising under this new leadership.
Key points
- Souleymane Thianguel Bah hands over Guinea's Communication Ministry to Fana Soumah, pledging support for continuity.
