Guinea

When ants work together, they can lift and carry elephants. This Guinean proverb aptly describes the resilience of the Guinean character, one that has persevered through a volatile history in a country graced with gorgeous countryside but frequent political instability. From welcoming waves of refugees from Sierra Leone and Liberia during the early 1990s, to their own political struggles, Guinea has endured the trials of a young democracy.

Catholic Relief Services' focus in Guinea is good governance, ensuring that young Guineans understand their rights and know how best to channel their political energy.

CRS work began with relief to the large refugee populations hosted by Guinea and has gradually moved into providing food assistance and support for HIV and AIDS programs. The Catholic Church, specifically Caritas Guinea, has been CRS' principal partner. Established in Guinea in the late 1800s, the church now has three dioceses in Guinea and played a vital mediating role during the unrest in 2007.

CRS' office is located Conakry, Guinea's capital.