Lamine Kamara, nicknamed "Kapi," is a prominent Guinean writer, novelist, and essayist born in 1940. A former teacher turned politician, he has had a remarkable yet turbulent journey, notably marked by seven years of imprisonment at Camp Boiro under Sékou Touré’s regime. After his release, he held several key positions, including Secretary-General of the Guinean National Commission for UNESCO in 1987 and later Minister of Foreign Affairs under Lansana Conté.
His literary work is rich and diverse, ranging from the novel Safrin ou Le Duel au fouet (1991) to political essays such as Guinée : sous les verrous de la révolution (2012), as well as more recent works like Noutoughol ou l'Épreuve de virginité (2024). Recognized for his commitment to national reconciliation and his accessible writing style, he was named Living Human Treasure of Guinea in 2024 by the Center for Innovation and Research for Development (CIRD), crowning a career dedicated to literature and public service.
Introduction
Lamine Kamara, affectionately nicknamed "Kapi," is a major figure in Guinean literature and politics. Born in 1940, this writer, novelist, and essayist embodies the remarkable journey of an African intellectual who successfully combined literary commitment with public service, despite the challenges of his country's history.
Earlier life and Education
Born shortly before Guinea's independence, Lamine Kamara belongs to a generation that grew up in a rapidly changing nation. He pursued higher education at the Gamal Abdel Nasser Polytechnic Institute of Conakry, where he was part of the first graduating class, already demonstrating exceptional intellectual abilities. This strong academic foundation laid the groundwork for his future career as an intellectual and public servant.
Literary Career
Kamara's literary career truly began with the publication of his novel Safrin ou Le Duel au fouet in 1991 by Présence Africaine, a work that achieved immediate success and established his reputation as a writer. His writing style is characterized by a meticulous approach to structure, with systematic forewords to guide the reader, and a constant concern for accessibility.
As president of the Association of Guinean Writers, he played a crucial role in promoting Guinean literature. His cultural commitment culminated in his participation in organizing Conakry, UNESCO World Book Capital.
Political Career
Kamara's political career began in his youth as a member of the youth movement of Sékou Touré’s party. Initially captivated by the charismatic independence leader, his political engagement took a dramatic turn, leading him to a profound reassessment of his beliefs.
Later, under the presidency of Lansana Conté, he held several high-ranking positions, including as a member of the Transitional Council for National Recovery (C.T.R.N), ambassador extraordinary and plenipotentiary, and minister of the Republic. In 1987, he was appointed Secretary-General of the Guinean National Commission for UNESCO.
Imprisonment
At the age of 31, Kamara endured one of the darkest periods of his life when he was imprisoned at the infamous Camp Boiro under Sékou Touré's regime. He spent seven years there, during which, despite the harsh conditions, he continued to write. To maintain his literary activity in prison, he had to be inventive, making his own paper from sugar carton scraps and using milk paste to bind pages, before smuggling his manuscripts out with the help of guards.
Ministerial Role
As Minister of Foreign Affairs under Lansana Conté, Kamara distinguished himself through professionalism and humility—qualities praised by his peers, including former minister Dr. Zalikatou Diallo. His ministerial experience later inspired his book L'Ex-Ministre : De l'envers à l'endroit de la politique (2022), initially conceived as an autobiography but ultimately becoming a tribute to President Lansana Conté.
Works
Lamine Kamara’s literary work is vast and diverse:
- Safrin ou Le Duel au fouet (1991)
- Guinée : sous les verrous de la révolution (2012)
- Les Racines de l'avenir : réflexion sur la Première République de Guinée (2012)
- Mariame Waraba : ou le destin d'une femme (2019)
- Ethnies, partis politiques et cohésion nationale (2022)
- L'Ex-Ministre : De l'envers à l'endroit de la politique (2022)
- Noutoughol ou l'Épreuve de virginité (2024)
His works explore a wide range of themes, from national reconciliation and the cultural traditions of the Fouta Djallon to political reflections and social issues.
Recognition and Impact
In 2024, Lamine Kamara was named Living Human Treasure of Guinea by the Center for Innovation and Research for Development (CIRD). This honor crowns a career marked by excellence and commitment. His influence extends beyond literature, notably through his participation in the Literary Fridays at the General Lansana Conté University in Sonfonia-Conakry, where he shares his experience with younger generations.
Private Life
Kamara is known for his modesty and humility, traits that contrast with the egocentrism often associated with public figures. Despite the hardships he has faced, including his imprisonment, he has maintained a spirit of openness and forgiveness, as evidenced by the conclusion of his book Guinée sous les verrous de la révolution, which ends with the word "Pardon."
Conclusion
Lamine Kamara represents an iconic figure of the engaged African intellectual, whose journey reflects the challenges and transformations of post-independence Guinea. His literary work, political commitment, and contribution to national reconciliation make him both a privileged witness and a key actor in his country’s contemporary history. His ability to rise above personal hardships to contribute to Guinea’s cultural and political development makes him a model for future generations.
