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Guinea’s Role in the ICTSG Formation Guinea was among the official participants at the 4th Collective Consultation Meeting on Traditional Sports and Games (TSG), held on 13–14 August 2018 at the Sheraton Grand Istanbul Atasehir in Istanbul, Turkey. This historic gathering laid the groundwork for the formation of the International Council of Traditional Sports and Games (ICTSG). Guinea was represented by Mr. Fadeba Keira, Deputy Minister for Sports and Mr. Lancinet Keita Kabassan, Director Sports, officially signed the foundational documents in his capacity as Deputy Minister of Sports. Overview of Guinea Guinea is a West African nation known for its diverse ethnic communities, rich musical heritage, and vibrant cultural expressions. Bordering countries like Mali, Senegal, and Sierra Leone, Guinea stands as a bridge between the coastal cultures and inland traditions of the continent. With a long history of indigenous games and physical storytelling through sport, Guinea plays a central role in preserving and transmitting intangible cultural practices. Geographic Importance Situated on the Atlantic Ocean with mountain ranges like the Fouta Djallon plateau and vast river systems including the Niger and Gambia, Guinea is geographically diverse. This natural setting supports various forms of rural and traditional sports. Its equatorial climate and forested zones have historically nurtured communal gatherings, celebrations, and indigenous games — many of which have been preserved orally and through practice. Traditional and Indigenous Sports in Guinea

Laamb Wrestling: Similar in structure to Senegalese wrestling, this traditional martial sport involves ritual, music, and strength-based competition. Practiced especially in northern regions, it celebrates community pride and heroism. Tug of War (Tir à la corde): Played during festivals and village gatherings, this game is more than physical competition — it symbolizes unity and collective strength. Traditional Archery: Practiced in the forest belt regions, archery games have been a means of hunting skill development, later converted into ceremonial sport.

Historical Role in ICTSG Formation Guinea's representatives, Fadeba Keira and Lancinet Keita Kabassan, took part in the foundational decision-making process of ICTSG. Mr. Fedeba, as Deputy Minister of Sports, signed the official documentation, confirming Guinea’s national support. This act elevated Guinea among the 40+ committed nations that contributed to ICTSG's launch and legitimization. Guinea’s participation emphasized West Africa’s place in global heritage sports diplomacy. Weather and Climate Conditions Guinea experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The coastal regions receive heavy rainfall between April and October, fostering lush green landscapes where many outdoor games are held. The dry season, from November to March, is optimal for national tournaments and festivals. Inland and higher altitude regions like Labé and Faranah have milder weather, enabling year-round practice of traditional activities. Weather directly impacts the timing and intensity of games such as wrestling and archery. UN SDG Alignment Guinea’s engagement with ICTSG reflects multiple United Nations Sustainable Development Goals:

Goal 4: Quality Education – TSGs are integrated into informal learning and oral traditions across communities. Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities – Traditional sports promote inclusion among ethnic and rural groups. Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals – Guinea’s signing of ICTSG formation strengthens global cooperation in cultural preservation.

Historical Relevance for ICTSG’s Future Guinea offers a profound case study for the ICTSG on how indigenous knowledge systems and sports can co-exist with modern development. The country’s oral archives, ethnographic records, and living traditions provide material for research, curriculum development, and peace-building efforts. As ICTSG continues to expand, Guinea can act as a cultural ambassador for West African traditional knowledge systems and help curate shared global festivals and documentation archives. Get Involved   Benefits of Joining   Support ICTSG

About ICTSG: The International Council of Traditional Sports and Games (ICTSG) is dedicated to preserving, promoting, and revitalizing traditional sports and games as powerful tools for education, peace, and sustainable development.

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