Guinea faces numerous challenges, including an economic and social situation characterized by deep inequalities, deterioration of living conditions, social tensions and reduced civic space. The explosion of Guinea's main oil depot, on 18 December 2023, caused 24 deaths, 454 injuries and affected 2,141 households in popular neighbourhoods of Conakry. This devastating event exacerbated the economic and social crisis, and aggravated the risk of an escalation of violence.

The EU mobilised its fund for rapid response to crisis and, on 8 November, launched the project Langni Fan ('peace is beautiful' in local language), in partnership with Terres des Hommes, French Red Cross and Guinean Red Cross. The goal is to strengthen the resilience of affected population and promote peaceful conflict resolution and social cohesion in high-risk areas for violence.

Coaching and financial support will be provided to 936 women heads of households to reactivate their small businesses. The EU will rehabilitate schools damaged by the explosion and improve learning environment for 1,200 students. In addition, three school safety committees will be trained and equipped for disaster preparedness and sanitation campaigns in the communities.

The EU will undertake a rehabilitation of the women's and minors' sections at Conakry's main detention centre, affected by the explosion, and currently hosting over 2,000 detainees. This initiative aims to improve health conditions and provide essential psychosocial support, while facilitating reintegration pathways for women and children in detention.

Additionally, the EU will support Conakry's youth by training over 700 young people from local neighbourhoods to become positive change agents within their communities. This initiative will promote community mobilisation through arts, dance, music, and theatre, with financial support provided to grassroots civil society organisations.

To foster social cohesion, the EU will also enhance intergenerational dialogue, encouraging stronger connections between young people, community and religious leaders, and local authorities in a shared commitment to peace and friendship.

Langni Fan project is concretely demonstrating the solidarity of the EU with the people of Guinea. Together with other development actions financed by the EU in the country, this project constitutes an important contribution to dialogue and peace.