In terms of mineral wealth, Guinea is one of the richest countries in Africa. Nevertheless, 36.1% of the population live in poverty.. The country’s economy relies heavily on mining and agriculture. However, poor infrastructure, lack of education, and corruption prevent Guinea from utilizing its natural resources to stimulate economic growth and reduce poverty.

As the world battles with the COVID-19 crisis, Guinea is facing a more complex health situation. A resurgence of Ebola is bringing a fresh wave of challenges to the country. Between 2014 and 2016 Ebola was spread to 28,600 people, causing 11,325 deaths. As of March 2021, nine deaths and multiple new cases of the deadly virus have been reported in Guinea. The WHO believes that there is a very high risk of the virus spreading throughout the country given that the origins and size of the outbreak are unknown.

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Food insecurity in Guinea is on the rise, caused mainly by the necessary measures put in place to curb the spread of COVID-19. These measures led to limited access to market-places and caused crippling income losses to traders and casual workers. According to a recent survey on the impact of the pandemic, 73% of urban households and 71% of rural families confirm that the pandemic is affecting their diet.