Rougui Barry was an emblematic figure of Guinea, pioneering in many areas. Born in 1953 in Mamou, this exceptional woman broke the glass ceilings by becoming one of the first women mayors of Conakry, as well as minister on several occasions.
An accomplished entrepreneur, the country's leading green coffee exporter and founder of a battery factory, she has also demonstrated an unwavering political commitment to the service of the Guinean people. Her journey rich in rebounds, filled with challenges but also with remarkable successes, has made her a model of inspiration and perseverance for future generations. A woman of conviction, tireless activist, Rougui Barry will remain engraved in the memories as one of the most illustrious girls in Guinea.
Introduction
Rougui Barry, an exceptional woman and a pioneer in several areas, has marked Guinea's political and social history with her unwavering commitment. Born on September 23, 1953 in Mamou, she was able to combine an accomplished professional career, an inspiring political career and an unwavering dedication to the development of her country.
Education
From an early age, Rougui Barry showed an insatiable appetite to know. After primary studies at Coléah, crowned by obtaining the Certificate of Elementary Primary Studies and an enrolment in the Honor Table, she continued brilliantly at the College of Rural Education (CER) of Coléeah, where she obtained the Second Cycle Studies Patent (BEPC) with mention Well.
Her quest for knowledge does not end here. In 1975, she was admitted to the Baccalauréat unique mathematics-physics series at the secondary school on 2 October. A few years later, in 1981, she obtained a degree in Economics from the University of Paris Assas, after a pre-training in civil engineering.
Carrière Professionnelle
Rougui Barry has found a remarkable way in the business world. In 1986, she became the first female exporter of green coffee in Guinea. In 1993, she founded a battery factory, employing more than 400 people, a fortune for a woman at the time.
Her keen sense of business has enabled him to build strong relationships in the entrepreneurial world, both in Guinea and internationally. In 2000, she took over the chairmanship of the Club des Nations Africaines in Paris. (CNAF).
Parcours Politique
Rougui Barry’s political career is equally rich and inspiring. From 1990 to 2000, she was elected and re-elected Mayor of the Municipality of Matam, becoming one of the first women to hold this key post. During its two mandates, it has created more than 200 NGOs and associative movements, offering employment opportunities to many young graduates.
Her political activism has been tested, including her imprisonment in 2004 following her positions, which led her to a nine-day hunger strike in protest of injustice.
In 2010, she participated in the creation of the political party United Guinea for the Renaissance (GUR) and was elected President. In the same year, she collaborated with Professor Alpha Condé, an emblematic figure of the Guinean opposition, and became the National Coordinator of the Arc-en-Ciel for the RPG presidential election.
Ministre
Named Minister of Pre-University Education, Technology, Vocational Training and Civic Education in 2009, Rougui Barry has left an indelible mark on the educational system in Guinea. It has initiated many reforms, such as the establishment of development committees for schools, the regularization of teachers' salaries and the improvement of human resources management.
In 2010, she became Minister Delegate of Guineans Abroad, thus strengthening the links between the Guinean diaspora and the country. In 2014, she was appointed Minister Adviser to the Presidency of the Republic, a position that she would hold until her death.
Conclusion
The disappearance of Rougui Barry, on 13 March 2022 in Morocco, sparked a wave of tributes and condolences, testifying to the impact it had on Guinea society. President Alpha Condé welcomed her memory and expressed his sincere condolences to the distressed family and the people of Guinea.
Rougui Barry will remain in memory as an exceptional woman, a pioneer in many fields, and an indispensable figure of modern Guinea. Her legacy will continue to inspire future generations, reminding us that determination, courage and commitment can make extraordinary things happen.
