Alkaly Mohamed Keita was a major cultural figure of Guinea. Born in the 1940s in Bouramayah, this multi-talented man first illustrated himself as a journalist and star host at Radiodiffusion Télévision Guineenne where he animated popular programs in the Suso language. But it was above all as the founder of the legendary artistic group Pesse that he conquered the hearts of Guineans with his hilarious sketches showcasing local traditions.
Comedian accomplished with a communicative end, Alkaly Mohamed Keita also shone on the political scene by becoming the first democratically elected mayor of the municipality of Matoto in the 1990s. A true ambassador of Guinean culture, he will remain forever as one of the most beloved and admired artists in the country.
Introduction
Alkaly Mohamed Keita was an emblematic figure of Guinean culture. Born in the 1940s in the village of Bouramayah, he marked his time as a journalist, animator, comedian, founder of the famous band Pesse and the first democratically elected mayor of the commune of Matoto in Conakry. His rich and diverse career makes him an indispensable figure in the artistic and political scene of Guinea.
Education
Little information is available about Alkaly Mohamed Keita's youth and education. However, it is known that he very early demonstrated a certain talent for the performing arts and communication.
Professional career
Alkaly Mohamed Keita embraced a career in journalism by joining Radio Television Guinea (RTG) as a journalist and host. This is where he was able to express his talent as an outstanding communicator in the national language of Soussou.
Artistic career
Alkaly Mohamed Keita, along with his career as a journalist, quickly illustrated himself on the Guinea art scene. With an extraordinary sense of humor and a talent of accomplished comedian, he managed to conquer the hearts of the Guinean audience.
Pesse Troop
His greatest artistic achievement remains the foundation of the famous band Pesse in the 1970s. This theatre and dance band has revolutionized the Guinean cultural scene by highlighting national traditions and languages through hilarant sketches and intriguing choreographies. Alkaly Mohamed Keita was the soul and the engine of this band that has trained many Guinean artists.
Cinématography
Although mostly active on the boards, Alkaly Mohamed Keita also made some incursions into the emerging Guinea cinema. He is remembered for his memorable role in the cult film "Hector Barreto" by director David Achkar.
Mayor of the commune of Matoto
In the early 1990s, Guinea began a democratic transition by holding its first local elections. It was in this context that Alkaly Mohamed Keita was elected mayor of the large municipality of Matoto in Conakry, becoming the first democratically elected Mayor of the capital. A term during which he demonstrated his dedication to his city and its administrators.
Death
In the last years of his life, Alkaly Mohamed Keita suffered from a pulmonary disease that severely weakened him. On January 6, 2020, a rumor of his death circulated a while before being denied by his relatives who confirmed that he was still alive and hospitalized. It was finally on the night of 7 January 2020 that Alkaly Mohamed Keita died at the age of 80 at the Ignace Deen Hospital in Conakry as a result of his illness.
Funeral
His funeral was organized with honours by the Guinean authorities in recognition of his immense contribution to national culture. A symposium was held in his honour at the People's Palace in the presence of the Prime Minister and numerous personalities. His body was then taken to his native village of Bouramayah for burial.
The disappearance of Alkaly Mohamed Keita has sparked a wave of emotions and tributes across the country. The head of state himself wanted to pay a final tribute to this illustrious servant of the nation. Voices have risen to commend the indelible legacy he leaves to Guinean culture.
Acknowledgement
During his lifetime, Alkaly Mohamed Keita received numerous honorary awards for his exceptional journey. He was awarded the National Order of Merit by the Guinean authorities.
Private life
Few details are filtering about Alkaly Mohamed Keita's privacy. It is known, however, that he was a family man, leaving behind at his death 20 children and 4 widows according to some sources.
Conclusion
The death of Alkaly Mohamed Keita in January 2020 marked the end of an era for Guinea. A complete artist, a talented journalist and a committed politician, he will forever remain as an emblematic figure who has greatly contributed to the radiation of Guinean culture. His legacy will remain engraved in the memories of a dedicated servant of his country who was able to entertain, inform and represent his compatriots on the national and international scenes. Alkaly Mohamed Keita is now one of the Guinean legends who have marked history with their talent, charisma and love of the homeland.
