By Mackie M. Jalloh
The Coalition of Former Presidents’ Wives of West Africa has paid glowing tribute to its late member, Mrs. Hadja Andrée Touré, describing her as a woman of exceptional dignity, resilience and unwavering commitment to the ideals of African unity and public service.
In a condolence statement issued following her burial, the coalition, led by Mrs. Fatmata Neppie Momoh, former wife of Sierra Leone’s late President Ahmad Tejan Kabbah, expressed profound grief over the passing of Mrs. Touré, who died on 8 July 2026 in the Kingdom of Morocco.
The coalition said her death represents a significant loss not only to Guinea but also to the community of former Presidents’ wives across West Africa, where she was respected for her wisdom, humility and dedication to preserving the legacy of African leadership.
Paying special tribute to Mrs. Fatmata Neppie Momoh for her leadership during this period of mourning, members of the coalition commended her continued commitment to promoting solidarity among former Presidents’ wives across the sub-region and for ensuring that the coalition speaks with one voice in honouring one of its distinguished members.
The statement noted that Mrs. Hadja Andrée Touré devoted much of her life to supporting her late husband, President Ahmed Sékou Touré, Guinea’s first President, during one of the country’s most defining periods following independence. Her quiet strength, patriotism and steadfast support, the coalition said, contributed significantly to Guinea’s national development and its place within Africa’s liberation history.
The former Presidents’ wives described her as a symbol of grace and service whose legacy will continue to inspire future generations of African women committed to nation building, peace and unity.
The coalition also acknowledged the efforts of President General Mamadi Doumbouya in honouring the memory of the late Mrs. Touré during her lifetime. They praised his decision to restore the historic Bellevue Villa and renovate the Touré family residence in Faranah, describing the initiatives as meaningful acts of national reconciliation and respect for Guinea’s historical heritage.
According to the coalition, preserving the legacy of national figures strengthens collective memory and serves as an important reminder of the sacrifices made by those who helped shape Africa’s post-independence history.
They further expressed hope that governments across the continent would emulate such efforts by recognizing and preserving the contributions of distinguished African leaders and their families.
While extending heartfelt condolences to the Government and people of Guinea, the Touré family and all those mourning her passing, the coalition prayed that Almighty God would grant Mrs. Hadja Andrée Touré eternal peace and reward her lifelong service with Al-Firdaws, the highest place in Paradise.
The former Presidents’ wives concluded by reaffirming their commitment to preserving the bonds of friendship, solidarity and mutual support that unite members of the coalition, while pledging to continue honouring the memories and legacies of those who have made lasting contributions to Africa’s development.