Programs and Events 2009
USAID looks to Women in Advancing Democracy in Guinea
Promoting free, fair and transparent elections and a return to civilian rule in Guinea is a driving goal for the U.S. Government in Guinea. With elections scheduled for the end of 2009, USAID teamed up with the National Democratic Institute to organize an intensive political party retreat July 2 – 5 in Conakry to reinforce political party activity and encourage women to run for office.
For years, women in Guinea have been discouraged from active political participation, and few attained positions of prominence in the government. USAID aims to change this by familiarizing women with the political process while emphasizing that viable and representative democracy requires the participation of all segments of society. One of the underlying goals of the recent NDI retreat was to emphasize to women their potential to make a difference in governance as both voters and candidates.
Five regional and two international experts were on hand at the retreat to discuss such topics as campaign management, voter mobilization, and public speaking. The experts teamed up with eight Guinean counterparts who adapted general principles of political organization to the local context.
After attending the retreat in Conakry, 84 women found time to speak to party leaders and form their own ideas about the role of political parties in a democratic transition. They also practiced their political skills through mock roll play.
“Thanks to USAID, we can work together to make things different,” said one of the women. “We all share our information and will participate in this transition as active members of the society.”
The recent election in Mali was raised as a successful example to imitate. Mali’s Minister of Defense, and a key political actor in Mali’s transition who participated at the retreat, underlined the importance of collaboration among political parties, the military and civil society. He noted that through sound communication among leading players, Mali completed its transition in only 14 months.
Radio journalist Mr Mohamed Lamine Drame’ was particularly inspired by the retreat. “My next goal is to explain through the radio in French and English the role of women in a democratic society.” Mr Drame’ and other reporters who make up Guinea’s nascent media have an important role to play in the coming elections. “We have to report accurately and provide the best possible information so that people are informed about voting procedures and issues.”
Like many who attended the retreat, Mr Drame’ better understands that women represent the hub of family life, and without their political involvement Guinea will fall short of achieving a democratic society.
This message, however, was not confined to Conakry. From July 13 -17 similar political retreats were held in seven other regions of Guinea, with many of the same positive results.
In the provincial capital of Labe’ for example, 50 women from 12 different political parties took part in the two-day retreat. Mrs Mariama Diallo who attended the retreat was one of many who left inspired to change things for women. “I want to inform women in villages about their rights so that they will not be marginalized anymore,” said Mrs Diallo. “I want to enjoy politics and help build health centers in the villages where now there are none. Women need to meet and exchange ideas for a better future. I will promote this.”