Inspection of Guinea Projects

by Saliu Olumide Saheed

I undertook a visitation and inspection to Kankan, a historic town in Guinea, to meet with a newly formed humanist group that has recently begun to organize itself under the leadership of Mohammed Ibrahim. This collective is still in its early stages of development, but the energy and commitment displayed during my meeting with them gave me much confidence about their future prospects. The group consists entirely of former Muslims men and women who have had the courage to break away from the dominant religious traditions of their community. In a region where Islam is not just a religion but a deeply entrenched way of life, their decision to embrace humanism is both courageous and risky. They explained that their efforts are directed toward quietly helping others who are disillusioned with religion to find a safe landing in humanism, offering both companionship and moral support to those who might otherwise be isolated and vulnerable.

During the meeting, it became evident that the members have already cultivated a fair knowledge of the principles of humanism, even though they are still learning and refining their understanding. They spoke passionately through interpretation about the relief and liberation they felt after leaving behind the dogmas of Islam. Because none of the members speak English, communication was facilitated by Usman, who kindly assisted with interpretation over the phone. This arrangement, though not perfect, allowed me to hear their testimonies and aspirations with clarity. Several members shared stories of quiet defiance, explaining how they pretend in public to conform to religious norms, while privately seeking rationality, secular values, and humanist ideals. The courage required to live such dual lives is immense, and it underscores the necessity of supporting them as they continue to grow.

The group showed me the charging hub previously set up, it was in fulloperation and it had prospects. Mohammed Ibrahim, the leader, impressed me with his calm determination and clear sense of purpose. He explained that their immediate priority is to deepen their understanding of humanism, strengthen their unity, and reach more people in Kankan who are silently struggling with doubts about religion. The members’ youthful vigor, coupled with the seriousness of their testimonies, left me with no doubt that this group has the potential to grow into a significant voice of reason in a very religiously conservative part of Guinea.

I encouraged the group to continue meeting regularly and to make learning a central part of their gatherings, reading humanist texts, discussing critical thinking, and sharing personal experiences. I also advised them to develop practical skills that could enhance their self-reliance, so that their humanist activities are supported by some economic stability. Given the language barrier, I suggested they identify one or two members who could gradually begin learning English or French terms associated with humanism, which would allow them to connect more easily with wider networks.

The Kankan Humanist Collective is still at its birth stage, fragile and tentative, but with visible promise. Their existence is a testament to the quiet but steady spread of humanist ideals across West Africa, even in places where tradition and religion remain deeply entrenched. With guidance, mentorship, and modest support, I am confident that Mohammed Ibrahim and his group will be able to nurture a vibrant hub of humanism in Kankan one that provides both a safe refuge for ex-Muslims and a practical platform for promoting reason, dignity, and compassion in their community.