by Chernor M. Jalloh

Introduction

On the occasion of Aliou Bah’s visit to Freetown to launch his book “Act for Guinea: Multi-sectoral Thinking of a Political Activist,” I had the distinct privilege of meeting the author in person. His passion for Guinea’s future was palpable, and as he addressed the descendants of the Guinean community in Sierra Leone, it became clear that his insights resonated deeply with all in attendance. The book’s launch was not merely an event; it was a rallying call for change, a moment that underscored Bah’s commitment to empowering the youth and reimagining Guinea’s political landscape. This encounter allowed me to grasp the profound sense of responsibility that drives Bah, a purpose that permeates every page of his book.

A Beacon of Hope for Guinea’s Future

At a time when Guinea’s political landscape appears mired in disillusionment and stagnation, Aliou Bah’s “Act for Guinea: Multi-sectoral Thinking of a Political Activist” emerges as a beacon of hope, particularly for the youth and aspiring political leaders. Bah’s work is more than a critique of the past; it is a rallying cry for the future. His incisive analysis and impassioned call to action offer a roadmap for those committed to seeing Guinea thrive in a more democratic and just society.

Bah meticulously examines Guinea’s post-colonial journey, marked by political instability, economic challenges, and social inequalities. He dissects the failures of the political elites who, in his view, have not only missed numerous opportunities for reform but have also perpetuated a cycle of corruption and inefficiency. Yet, Bah does not merely dwell on these failures; he uses them as a foundation to build his case for a new kind of leadership—one that is rooted in integrity, responsibility, and a deep commitment to the public good.

Reclaiming the Integrity of Politics

Central to Bah’s philosophy is his firm rejection of the cynical view that politics is inherently corrupt. He states emphatically, “To say that politics is only synonymous with baseness, cynicism, and lies is absolutely unacceptable and reprehensible. These qualities are rather the prerogative of those who want to make people believe it to justify their existence on the political scene.” This declaration is not just a defense of the potential nobility of politics; it is a challenge to young Guineans to reject the notion that politics is a dirty game and instead embrace it as a powerful tool for positive change.

Bah’s vision for political renewal is intertwined with his call for institutional reform. He argues that without robust, transparent, and accountable institutions, sustainable development in Guinea will remain a distant dream. This is where his multi-sectoral approach becomes particularly significant. Bah does not view political reform in isolation; he understands that it must be part of a broader strategy that includes economic diversification, educational reform, and social development.

Addressing Economic and Social Challenges

In the economic realm, Bah’s reflections are both critical and constructive. He points out the structural challenges that have kept Guinea economically stagnant, such as over-reliance on extractive industries and inadequate support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). He calls for a diversified economy that not only generates wealth but also distributes it more equitably across society. His emphasis on innovation and skill development is particularly relevant in today’s globalized world, where economic competitiveness increasingly depends on a nation’s ability to innovate.

On the social front, Bah is deeply concerned about the marginalization of vulnerable groups, including women and youth. He argues that true national development can only be achieved when these groups are empowered to participate fully in society. His call for educational reform is especially urgent; he believes that Guinea’s outdated educational system is one of the major obstacles to progress. By advocating for an overhaul that focuses on quality, accessibility, and relevance, Bah highlights education as the cornerstone of national development.

Critical Gaps and the Path Forward

While “Act for Guinea” is a vital contribution to the discourse on Guinea’s future, it is not without its limitations. One notable gap is the insufficient discussion of the international dimension of Guinea’s challenges. While Bah touches on the impact of global economic forces, he could have delved deeper into how Guinea might better navigate the complexities of international relations and global trade. Furthermore, the role of civil society, which has been pivotal in driving change in many African countries, is somewhat underrepresented in his narrative.

Despite these gaps, “Act for Guinea” is a crucial read for anyone interested in Guinea’s future. Bah’s clear and direct language makes the book accessible, although it occasionally suffers from clichés and repetitive phrasing—issues that might stem from its translation from French to English – the version I read. Phrases like “lighting the way” and “capitalizing on existing assets” could have been replaced with more original expressions to better capture the urgency of Bah’s message.

Conclusion: A Call to Action for Guinea’s Youth

For the youth and political aspirants in Guinea, Bah’s book is more than just a critique; it is a guide for action. By reading “Act for Guinea,” they can gain a deeper understanding of the political conundrums facing their country and find inspiration to advocate for the reforms that are so desperately needed. As Bah asserts, “The most important thing now is to take advantage of existing assets and reinvent a better future for Guinea through political, professional, and social responsibilities.”

In conclusion, Aliou Bah’s “Act for Guinea: Multi-sectoral Thinking of a Political Activist” is a powerful testament to the potential for change in Guinea. It is a call to the young, the passionate, and the committed to rise to the occasion and take ownership of their country’s future. Bah’s vision is one of hope, responsibility, and renewal—qualities that are sorely needed in Guinea’s political discourse today. It is a book that should be read by every Guinean who believes in the possibility of a better tomorrow.