In a important development for Guinean civil society, Mamadou Ciré Dioum has been re-elected as president of the Democracy, Peace, Elections, and Sustainable Development in Guinea (DPEG) platform during its second conference held on December 21, 2024, in Conakry. The unanimous decision by the delegates, representing nine of the thirteen member organizations, underscores a strong commitment to the platform’s objectives.Rouguiatou Sow, general secretary of the humanitarian club without borders, praised the conference’s openness and expressed her organization’s dedication to achieving DPEG’s goals. Dioum emphasized the importance of trust and collaboration among civil society members to uphold democratic principles and contribute to Guinea’s socio-economic development.
Interview with Mamadou Ciré Dioum: Strengthening Civil Society in Guinea
time.news Editor: Mamadou, congratulations on your re-election as president of the DPEG. What does this renewed mandate mean for you personally and for the association as a whole?
Mamadou Ciré Dioum: Thank you! This re-election is a strong affirmation of our work and the trust that our members place in my leadership.For the DPEG, it signifies continued commitment to our goals of democracy, peace, elections, and sustainable advancement in Guinea. we aim to harness this momentum to strengthen civil society’s role in shaping a better future for our country.
Time.news Editor: You mentioned the importance of collaboration among civil society members. Could you elaborate on how this collaboration can facilitate the achievement of DPEG’s objectives?
Mamadou Ciré Dioum: Absolutely! Collaboration is crucial for addressing the complex challenges we face. By working together, we can pool our resources, share best practices, and amplify our voices. This unity not only enhances our advocacy efforts but also reinforces democratic values. It creates a platform for diverse opinions, fostering inclusiveness and transparency, which are essential for socio-economic development in Guinea.
Time.news Editor: At the recent conference, Rouguiatou Sow praised the openness of the discussions. How do you ensure that the DPEG remains accessible and clear to all its stakeholders?
Mamadou Ciré Dioum: we prioritize transparency by implementing open forums and providing regular updates on our activities.Engaging stakeholders in decision-making processes is essential. We invite feedback and encourage participation from all member organizations. This way, we ensure that our initiatives reflect the collective interests and needs of the community.
Time.news Editor: What are the main challenges currently facing civil society in Guinea,and how does DPEG plan to address them over the next term?
Mamadou Ciré Dioum: One of the notable challenges is the political climate,which can sometiems stifle dissent and limit civic engagement. Additionally, economic constraints are affecting our ability to mobilize resources. To combat these issues, DPEG is focused on strengthening our network, enhancing capacity-building programs, and advocating for policies that promote civic engagement and support for civil society organizations.
Time.news Editor: As you look to the future, what practical advice would you offer to emerging civil society leaders in Guinea and beyond?
Mamadou Ciré Dioum: I encourage young leaders to stay committed to their ideals while being open to partnership.Building trust within your community is foundational. Also, invest in understanding the socio-political landscape; this awareness will help you navigate challenges effectively. never underestimate the power of collective action—united efforts can lead to significant change.
Time.news Editor: Thank you for sharing your insights, Mamadou. your vision for the future of Guinea’s civil society is inspiring, and we look forward to seeing the positive impacts of your continued leadership.
Mamadou Ciré Dioum: Thank you for having me! Together, we can cultivate a more democratic and prosperous Guinea.