Zalikatou Diallo is a pioneer of women's empowerment and citizen engagement in Guinea. Originating from Kankan, this politician of convictions has devoted her life to the promotion of women's rights, the defence of national unity and social inclusion.
As the first woman to hold key positions as Vice-President of the National Assembly, Minister for Citizenship and National Unity, and representative of the country to continental bodies, she broke the glass ceilings and paved the way for increased participation of Guinea women in the spheres of power.
Her inspiring career, from her medical studies to her political commitment to the promotion of women's sport, makes her an emblematic figure and a respected voice tirelessly advocating for gender equality and the empowerment of women.
Introduction
Originally from Mamou, Middle Guinea, Zalikatou Diallo is an emblematic figure in the Guinean political scene. A woman of conviction and courage, she dedicated her life to the promotion of women's rights, the defense of national unity, and the emancipation of citizens. Her inspiring career demonstrates her determination to break down barriers and pave the way for greater participation of women in the spheres of political and social power.
Education
From an early age, Zalikatou Diallo showed a keen interest in studies. After obtaining her bachelor's degrees in 1980 and 1981 at the prestigious 1st March High School in Conakry, she studied medicine at Gamal Abdel Nasser University. In 1988, she graduated from the major of her promotion, confirming her academic excellence and her dedication to work.
Professionnal career
After graduating as a doctor, Zalikatou Diallo began his professional career in the Prefecture of Coyah, in the primary health department, putting his skills at the service of his countrymen. Married to a diplomat, she had the opportunity to live abroad for 14 years, which allowed her to deepen her knowledge of computer science in Libya and English in Nigeria and the United States.
Back in Guinea, she resumed her service in Coyah before being transferred to Donka Hospital, where she worked in endocrinology and diabetology, continuing her mission of treating and helping vulnerable populations.
Lecturer
Along with his medical career, Zalikatou Diallo embraced the path of education. She taught medicine at Kofi-Annan University in Guinea, sharing her knowledge and expertise with the new generation of health professionals in the country.
Political commitment
Zalikatou Diallo made a decisive milestone in her career when she decided to engage in politics. Convinced of the need to promote gender equality and give women a voice in decision-making, she joined Lansana Kouyaté’s Party of Hope for National Development (PEDN) before joining the ruling Party of the People’s Assembly of Guinea (RPG-Arc-en-ciel), which is determined to make her voice heard and that of her sisters.
Parliamentary journey
In recognition of her leadership and dedication to the cause of women, Zalikatou Diallo was elected Vice-President of the National Assembly of Guinea. In this prestigious role, she has proudly represented her country in the Pan-African Parliament and in the African Women's Group, advocating the interests of Guinea on the continental stage.
Her commitment has not been limited to national and international parliamentary offices. Zalikatou Diallo has also chaired the network of Guinean parliamentarians on nutrition, HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria, demonstrating his commitment to combating the health scourges affecting the Guinean population.
Minister
In April 2021, Zalikatou Diallo was appointed Minister of National Unity and Citizenship by President Alpha Condé. This appointment demonstrates the confidence placed in her by the country's highest authorities and underlines her key role in promoting social cohesion and inclusion in Guinea.
In her new role, Zalikatou Diallo sought to strengthen dialogue between the different components of Guinea's society, encouraging citizen participation and mutual respect. She has also promoted awareness-raising on human rights and sustainable development issues.
Sport
Beyond her political career, Zalikatou Diallo has also played an active role in promoting women's sport in Guinea. She has served as the Human Resources Director of Havia Football Club and Secretary for the Development of Women's Football.
Her commitment to the world of sport did not stop there. Zalikatou Diallo was appointed by Guinea as Commissioner to the African Football Confederation (CAF) and the International Football Federation Association (FIFA), becoming the first Guinea woman to hold these prestigious positions. She also took over the position of Vice-President of the Guinea Football Federation, a historic first for a woman in the country.
Advocacy
In addition to her official duties, Zalikatou Diallo has been committed to the defence of women's rights and the promotion of gender equality. In collaboration with the author Bakary Saraya Diaby, she co-authored the book "Women of Guinea: Let's Destroy the Owlers", which sets out the situation of women in Guinea and calls for the emancipation and empowerment of women.
Publications
The book "Women of Guinea: Let's Remove the Earrings", published in the editions of L'Harmattan Guinea and prefaced by former Minister Aly Gilbert Ifono, constitutes a major contribution of Zalikatou Diallo to the cause of women. This 223-page book deals with crucial topics such as the status of women in the world, the struggle of Guinea women for their rights, and the emergence of inspiring female figures in various fields, from politics to diplomacy to the world of business.
Conclusion
Zalikatou Diallo’s journey is a true example of women’s commitment, determination and leadership. As a pioneer in many areas, she has paved the way for increased participation of women in the spheres of political, sporting and social power in Guinea.
Her unwavering dedication to the cause of women, her struggle for national unity and her contribution to the promotion of citizenship make her an inspiring figure for present and future generations. Zalikatou Diallo will undoubtedly remain an icon of women's emancipation in Guinea, whose legacy will continue to inspire and guide women to new heights.
