“Hard work and patience are the keys. There are no limits when you give your all with passion.”
Sekou Condé
In the daily bustle of a mining project as vast as Simandou, a few faces stand out, living witnesses to the site’s evolution and its people. Sekou Condé is one of them. With 18 years of experience at Rio Tinto Simfer, he now serves as Dispatch Officer, ensuring smooth logistical operations. But beyond his strategic role, Sekou is also a voice, a human anchor for his colleagues, notably through his union involvement and commitment to supporting social causes.
A Journey Forged by Determination
Sekou Condé has built his path at Rio Tinto Simfer with discipline and dedication. His journey began in 2007 when he joined the project as a daily laborer. The following year, he became a vehicle operator, then advanced to logistics assistant in 2012. Thanks to his reliability and deep knowledge of the field, he was appointed Dispatch Officer in 2022.
“I like being someone the team can rely on. My role is to organize, to plan, but above all to make sure everything runs smoothly when it comes to people moving around. Working together and strengthening collaboration is what drives a project like Simandou forward.”
A Privileged Witness to the Project’s Growth
Since his arrival, Sekou has witnessed the transformation of the Simandou project firsthand. He vividly recalls 2016 as a defining year, when he fully realized the scale and impact of the project, not just on infrastructure, but on the lives it touches. That period also included a phase of uncertainty during Rio Tinto’s “care and maintenance” status for the project, a time that tested and ultimately strengthened the resilience of Sekou and his colleagues. It underscored Simandou’s long-term strategic importance.
“That was the first time I truly understood the scale of this project and its impact on people. Today, there’s no doubt in my mind: as a father, I’m proud to contribute to something so transformative for our country and generations to come.”
A Voice for Others
Beyond his professional duties, Sekou plays an active role in the workers’ union, where he contributes significantly to raising awareness and supporting employees. He is particularly involved in handling social cases, offering critical support to colleagues during difficult times, such as bereavement or life events affecting employees and their families.
“Being a union member is more than just a title. It means listening, advising, and speaking up for others. Every situation is unique, and what matters most is putting people first.”
A commitment to safety and peace
For Sekou, two values come before all others: safety and peace. In an environment as complex as a large-scale mining project, he knows that vigilance and working together are essential. His daily commitment is focused on ensuring a calm, secure working environment for everyone.
Today, as Simandou continues to grow, Sekou Condé remains a steady presence, a model of dedication and humanity. His story perfectly illustrates the vital role played by the men and women who, through their commitment, are building not just a project, but a future for Guinea.
