The Guinean government has taken another important step towards strengthening the country’s cultural infrastructure with the launch of construction works for the Kankan Regional Museum and Cultural Centre. The groundbreaking ceremony took place on Thursday, July 23, 2026, in the Aéroport district and was led by the Minister of Culture, Tourism and Handicrafts, Moussa Moïse Sylla.
The event brought together local authorities, technical partners, cultural stakeholders, and residents who gathered to witness the official start of a project designed to preserve Guinea’s cultural heritage while supporting the country’s creative industries.
A Modern Cultural Hub for Upper Guinea
Speaking during the ceremony, the Governor of the Kankan Administrative Region, Colonel Aly Badara Camara, described the project as a landmark initiative for the region. He noted that the future complex will play a vital role in safeguarding the cultural identity of Upper Guinea while providing young people with modern facilities dedicated to learning, creativity, and artistic expression.
A 12,000 Square Metre Cultural Complex
The construction contract has been awarded to MC Groupe, whose representative, Ben Salah, confirmed that the complex will cover approximately 11,968 square metres.
The new facility will include:
- Exhibition galleries
- A modern library
- Conference and meeting rooms
- Creative workshops
- Commercial spaces
- Restaurants
- Landscaped green areas
According to the contractor, the project will be delivered within the agreed timeframe while meeting international construction and quality standards.
Preserving Guinea’s Cultural Heritage
During his address, Minister Moussa Moïse Sylla highlighted Kankan’s rich cultural traditions, including the Mamaya, Doundoumba, and Djagbé, describing them as essential elements of Guinea’s cultural identity.
He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to securing UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage recognition for the Mamaya, one of Guinea’s most celebrated traditional cultural expressions.
According to the minister, the future museum will preserve the country’s collective memory, while the cultural centre will serve as a platform for nurturing local artists, entrepreneurs, and creative talent.
Supporting the SIMANDOU 2040 Vision
The Kankan Regional Museum and Cultural Centre forms part of the government’s broader SIMANDOU 2040 development strategy, which seeks to strengthen culture, tourism, education, and the creative economy as drivers of sustainable national development.
Authorities say the project will be closely monitored throughout its construction to ensure quality standards are respected and to position Kankan as a leading cultural and tourism destination in Guinea.
