Nanfadima Magassouba is a Guinean politician and activist dedicated to defending women's rights. As the former president of the National Coalition of Guinea for Women's Rights and Citizenship (CONAG-DCF), she played a key role in promoting gender equality and helped establish CONAG as a recognized actor within the United Nations. Elected as a member of parliament in 2013 under the banner of the Rally of the People of Guinea (RPG), she has held significant leadership positions, including Minister of National Solidarity and the Promotion of Women and Children.
Her commitment to women's rights is evident in her fight against the legalization of polygamy and her role in discussions on a gender-sensitive constitution in Guinea. Recognized both nationally and internationally, she remains an influential figure in Guinean politics and a role model for future generations.
Introduction
Nanfadima Magassouba is a prominent figure in the fight for women's rights in Guinea. A highly influential politician and dedicated activist, she led the National Coalition of Guinea for Women's Rights and Citizenship (CONAG-DCF) before serving in the Guinean National Assembly. Her career exemplifies her unwavering commitment to gender equality and social justice.
Activism and Political Engagement
Born in the Koundara prefecture, Nanfadima Magassouba became involved in social struggles at an early age. For three decades, she worked alongside labor unions and community groups, strengthening her commitment to women's rights. She later took on the presidency of CONAG-DCF, an organization that, under her leadership, became a key player in defending women's rights in Guinea and obtained consultative status with the United Nations.
Her political career took shape in 2013 when she was elected as a member of the National Assembly under the banner of the Rally of the People of Guinea (RPG). Her rise continued when she became Minister of National Solidarity and the Promotion of Women and Children, actively contributing to improving the conditions of Guinean women.
Parliamentary Role
At the National Assembly, Nanfadima Magassouba quickly established herself as an influential voice. She was appointed president of the RPG Arc-en-Ciel delegation commission in 2016 and played a crucial role in the network of women parliamentarians, serving as its president until July of that year.
In 2018, she stood out for her firm stance against the legalization of polygamy in Guinea. Alongside 26 other women parliamentarians, she refused to approve revisions to the Civil Code that would have reinstated this practice, which had been banned since 1968. She passionately declared, "Its prohibition was won through the hard-fought struggles of our mothers, aunts, and grandmothers. We cannot go back on these achievements. We want to move forward."
International Recognition
In May 2017, she participated in the 4th Forum of African Political Leaders, organized by Yale University, further cementing her international influence. Her advocacy for women's rights and gender equality is recognized well beyond Guinea’s borders.
In April 2023, she played a key role in discussions surrounding a "gender-sensitive Constitution," aimed at ensuring better representation of women in decision-making bodies in Guinea. On this occasion, she reaffirmed her commitment to equality and praised the political will to fully integrate women into the country's development process.
Political and Social Legacy
A dedicated RPG activist in Koundara, Nanfadima Magassouba remains a central figure in Guinean politics. Her fight for women's rights, her defense of social justice, and her commitment to Guinea’s development make her an essential personality.
Her journey continues to inspire a new generation of leaders, proving that determination and courage can change a nation's destiny. Her legacy, marked by the struggle for equality and justice, will continue to influence future generations in Guinea and beyond.
