Elhadj Diériba Diaby is a prominent Guinean ambassador of peace and philanthropist, renowned for his unwavering commitment to social cohesion and support for vulnerable individuals. Founder of the "Elhadj Diériba Diaby Foundation for Peace and Social Assistance," established in 2015, he has gradually expanded his charitable actions from a local scale to a national and international reach, notably extending to Mali.
His philosophy of sharing, summed up by his emblematic prayer, "May God not give me what I will keep for myself," guides his work in distributing food and mediating during sociopolitical tensions. A notable example is his successful intervention in 2022 to promote dialogue between the FNDC and the transitional authorities. Elevated to the rank of Grand Officer of the National Order of the Colatier of the Republic of Guinea in October 2022, Elhadj Diériba Diaby embodies the values of generosity, dialogue, and national unity that transcend ethnic and political divides. He consistently calls on his fellow citizens to prioritize the national interest over personal or community interests.
Introduction
Elhadj Diériba Diaby is a prominent figure in Guinea, renowned for his tireless commitment to peace, social cohesion, and assistance to vulnerable individuals. Known as the "Ambassador of Peace," he has dedicated his life to promoting dialogue, national reconciliation, and mutual support within Guinean society. His guiding philosophy, captured in his emblematic prayer, "May God not give me what I will keep for myself," reflects his dedication to sharing his resources with his fellow citizens. Recognized at the highest level of the Guinean state, Elhadj Diériba Diaby embodies the values of generosity, dialogue, and national unity that transcend ethnic and political divides.
Earlier Life and Education
Although the documents provided do not give precise details about his childhood and formal education, it is mentioned that Elhadj Diériba Diaby never attended a French school. This suggests that he likely received a traditional and religious education, possibly in a Quranic school, which would explain his deep knowledge of Islam and strong moral values that guide his actions. This traditional upbringing undoubtedly shaped his worldview and his later commitment to peace and solidarity.
Journey
Elhadj Diériba Diaby's journey is one of gradual development of his social and humanitarian commitment over the years. According to the documents, he began his charitable activities over a decade ago, initially on a local scale in his neighborhood and for close families. Over time, his initiatives expanded to a national scope and even reached international levels, particularly in Mali.
His growing reputation led to his official recognition as the "Ambassador of Peace" in Guinea, a title that attests to his positive impact on Guinean society. This status enabled him to amplify his message of peace and reconciliation and to act as a mediator in the country's socio-political tensions.
Life of Adventure
Although the documents do not explicitly mention a specific period of adventure or travel, it can be inferred that Elhadj Diériba Diaby gained international experience that enriched his perspective. His humanitarian efforts beyond Guinean borders, especially in Mali (Ségou, Bamako, Kaï), suggest that he developed connections and a cross-border vision of solidarity. These experiences likely allowed him to understand the shared challenges faced by countries in the region and the importance of peace as a foundation for development.
Return to Guinea
Elhadj Diériba Diaby's return to Guinea, or more precisely his intensified engagement in his homeland, was marked by the creation of his foundation and the expansion of his humanitarian and mediation activities. He leveraged his influence and resources to become a key actor in peacebuilding and national reconciliation. His involvement in resolving political crises, particularly during the tensions related to FNDC protests in 2022, demonstrates his crucial role in promoting dialogue as an alternative to violence.
Ambassador of Peace
The title of Ambassador of Peace is not merely honorary for Elhadj Diériba Diaby; it truly defines his daily actions. In this capacity, he has led numerous initiatives to promote peace, dialogue, and national reconciliation in Guinea. Notably, his mediation in June 2022 with the National Front for the Defense of the Constitution (FNDC) and transitional authorities to postpone a protest in favor of dialogue stands out.
His message of peace is consistent and addresses all Guineans, regardless of their ethnic or political affiliations. He regularly calls for national unity, mutual respect, and the preservation of social peace. His credibility in this role is such that he was elevated to the rank of Grand Officer of the National Order of the Colatier of the Republic of Guinea on October 31, 2022, in recognition of his contribution to social cohesion.
The Elhadj Diériba Diaby Foundation
The "Elhadj Diériba Diaby Foundation for Peace and Social Assistance" serves as the institutional framework for his work. Officially registered on February 17, 2015, this non-political and non-profit organization operates to promote peace and assist vulnerable people. Its headquarters were inaugurated on May 20, 2017, in Ratoma Center, Conakry, in the presence of many prominent figures, including the President of the Economic and Social Council, Hadja Rabiatou Serah Diallo, and several ministers.
The foundation carries out various humanitarian activities, including distributing food (rice, sugar) to those in need, organizing prayer sessions and Quranic readings for peace, and raising awareness through mediation efforts. It operates not only in Conakry but also throughout the country and even beyond its borders, particularly in Mali. The foundation stands out for its ability to mobilize resources from its founder's own means and redistribute them to the most disadvantaged, staying true to its philosophy of sharing.
Private Life
The provided documents reveal little about Elhadj Diériba Diaby's private life. It is known that he resides in Taouya, in the Ratoma commune of Conakry, where he regularly organizes religious ceremonies and charitable activities. His home appears to be a gathering place for prayers and food distribution. Although there is no mention of his family, his title of "Elhadj" indicates that he has completed the pilgrimage to Mecca, a significant pillar of Islam.
His private life seems inseparable from his public commitment, with his home often serving as the starting point for his humanitarian actions. This blending of personal and public spheres reflects the authenticity of his dedication and the coherence between his values and his actions.
Conclusion
Elhadj Diériba Diaby embodies the spirit of peace, reconciliation, and solidarity that Guinea desperately needs. Through his foundation and his role as Ambassador of Peace, he has built bridges between communities and promoted a message of unity that transcends ethnic and political divisions. His philosophy of sharing, expressed in his famous prayer, "May God not give me what I will keep for myself," stands as a model of generosity and social commitment.
In a country where ethnic and political tensions have often led to crises, Elhadj Diériba Diaby represents a voice of wisdom and moderation. His courage in addressing sensitive issues, such as the relations between Peulhs and Malinkés, demonstrates his determination to build a united and peaceful Guinea. Recognized by the nation's highest authorities, he tirelessly works for Guineans to prioritize national interest over personal or communal interests.
Elhadj Diériba Diaby's contribution to peace and social cohesion in Guinea will undoubtedly be remembered as an example of moral leadership and civic engagement. His legacy will likely inspire future generations to continue his work of reconciliation and solidarity, essential for the sustainable development of Guinea.
