Fana Soumah, born in 1969 in Forécariah, Guinea, is a Guinean journalist and politician who has left a significant mark on the national media landscape through his remarkable career. After starting as a journalist at National Radio in 1996, he steadily rose through the ranks of the Radiodiffusion Télévision Guinéenne (RTG), becoming the editor-in-chief of the television news, then director of various departments, before being appointed Director General of RTG from 2021 to 2024.
Known for his professionalism, mastery of television presentation, and commitment to responsible communication, he was appointed Minister of Information and Communication on March 13, 2024, in the government of Bah Oury. A sociology graduate, Fana Soumah is recognized for his pragmatism, dedication to professionalizing the media sector, and focus on training journalists, making him a significant figure in Guinea's public communication.
Introduction
Born in 1969 in the town of Forécariah, nestled in the heart of the Republic of Guinea, Fana Soumah embodies the story of a professional who has built his career with passion and determination. His journey perfectly illustrates the path of a young talent from a rural area who, through hard work and dedication, reached the pinnacle of national communication. The early years of his life were marked by a thirst for knowledge and a curiosity that would carry him far beyond the borders of his hometown.
His education began in the local schools of Forécariah, where he quickly demonstrated a keen interest in information and communication. In 1979, as he started his primary education, young Fana already showed analytical abilities and a determination that would later set him apart. His academic journey was marked by rigor; in 1983, he earned his BEPC (Brevet d'Études du Premier Cycle) from the local middle school, showcasing his intellectual capabilities and ambition.
Education
The year 1986 marked a significant turning point with the achievement of his high school diploma from Lycée 02 Octobre in Conakry. This diploma was more than just a piece of paper — it symbolized the culmination of a diligent academic path and the promise of a bright future. Fana Soumah then pursued higher education with the same intensity, obtaining a Diplôme d'Études Supérieures (DES) in Sociology from the University of Gamal Abdel Nasser of Conakry in 1992.
This background in sociology would prove crucial in his future career. It enabled him to understand social dynamics, communication mechanisms, and societal challenges—essential skills for a journalist destined to become a key player in public information. His academic background was not merely theoretical but served as a solid foundation for his professional practice.
Early Career in Journalism
In 1996, Fana Soumah took his first steps into journalism at the National Radio (RTG). His beginnings as a journalist and news anchor revealed his natural talents. For him, journalism was not just a job; it was a true calling. He quickly distinguished himself with his ability to produce reports, investigations, and interviews that went beyond mere information delivery.
His progress was steady and well-deserved. Between 2000 and 2011, he became the editor-in-chief of the television news at the national TV station, a position that confirmed his expertise. His presentation style, clear diction, and professionalism rapidly brought him into the spotlight. He began to be recognized as one of the best TV news presenters in Guinea.
Professional Growth
The following years were marked by a series of appointments that attested to his abilities. In 2009, he became the director of RTG2 television and then the director of national television from 2011 to 2012. His career was punctuated by challenges that he successfully navigated, demonstrating his commitment to public service and his capacity to manage complex teams.
In 2014, he reached the position of Deputy Director General of the Radiodiffusion Télévision Guinéenne (RTG), a testament to his expertise and leadership. From November 10, 2021, to March 13, 2024, he served as the Director General of RTG, a period during which he drove significant transformations in Guinea's media landscape.
Minister of Information
March 13, 2024, marked a decisive turning point in his career: his appointment as the Minister of Information and Communication in the government of Bah Oury. This promotion was not a matter of chance but rather the recognition of his years of dedication and acknowledged expertise.
In this new role, Fana Soumah continued his mission of transformation. He actively worked to revitalize government communication, promote a free and responsible press, and combat misinformation. His interventions, particularly during World Press Freedom Day in 2024, reflected his vision: to build an ethical, professional media ecosystem that serves national development.
A Distinctive Professional Philosophy
What sets Fana Soumah apart is his ability to combine pragmatism with strategic vision. He doesn't merely manage; he transforms. His philosophy rests on three fundamental pillars: continuous training for journalists, the promotion of professional ethics, and developing communication that serves the citizenry.
He pays particular attention to training, considering journalists as "perpetual students." For him, it is not enough to inform; it must be done with responsibility, rigor, and adherence to ethical standards.
The Man Behind the Role
Beyond his professional career, Fana Soumah remains a deeply humane individual. Married and a father of four, he embodies the balance between professional commitment and family life. His journey shows that with determination, hard work, and an unwavering sense of ethics, one can truly shape their destiny.
Conclusion
Fana Soumah's journey is more than just a success story; it exemplifies how an individual can become an agent of change not through mere rhetoric but through concrete actions. From journalist to minister, he has consistently worked to improve the quality of information and serve the public interest.
His story is a reminder that journalism is not just a profession but a commitment—a commitment to truth, society, and the development of a nation.
