Born: 1 January 1955 (Singrobo, Tiassalé, Ivory Coast)
Died: 29 September 2022
Biography:
Brigadier-General Akissi Kouamé (1 January 1955 – 29 September 2022) was a highly respected and accomplished Ivorian army officer. She played a pivotal role in breaking barriers and paving the way for women in the military, leaving a lasting impact on society. Kouamé’s dedication, resilience, and ambition are an inspiration to many.
Akissi Kouamé was born on 1 January 1955 in Singrobo, Tiassalé, in the Ivory Coast. She grew up in a large family of ten children, and her upbringing instilled in her a sense of determination and perseverance. Kouamé’s academic journey began at a school run by nuns, where she received her early education. She later attended Sainte-Marie High School before pursuing medicine at the University of Abidjan.
In a trailblazing move that would shape her future, Kouamé made history when she joined the Ivorian army’s medical service in 1981 while still studying medicine. Her decision to embark on a military career as a woman during that time was unprecedented and met with skepticism. However, Kouamé’s commitment to her profession and the desire to challenge gender norms propelled her forward.
Kouamé’s hard work paid off when, in 1983, she obtained her doctorate in medicine. She then attended the officer training academy and was appointed a lieutenant in July of the same year. Her determination continued to push boundaries as she became the first woman in the army to qualify as a paratrooper in August 1983.
From 1983 to 1985, Kouamé served as the deputy commander of one of the army’s medical centers. It was during this time that she displayed exceptional leadership skills and was promoted to the rank of captain in September 1984. Kouamé’s dedication to her field extended beyond her military duties. In 1985, she was appointed head of the military’s gynecology and obstetrics department, a position she held for five years. During this period, Kouamé pursued further education and achieved a certificate of competency in gynecological ultrasound techniques at the University of Abidjan and in Brest, France.
Kouamé’s commitment to providing comprehensive healthcare led her to attend training courses in reproductive health and care for HIV/AIDS patients at the National Office for Family and Population in Tunisia in 1991, 1995, and 1998. Her expertise and passion for women’s health earned her widespread respect within the medical community.
In recognition of her outstanding achievements, Kouamé received several promotions throughout her military career. She was appointed a commandant (equivalent to major) on 1 July 1992 and underwent training in health resources management for developing countries at the Université libre de Bruxelles in 1995. In 1996, she received further training in providing healthcare education and social communication from the University of Liège. As her career continued to advance, Kouamé was promoted to the rank of lieutenant-colonel on 1 October of the same year.
Kouamé’s influence extended beyond her military duties. She actively participated in various organizations, including serving as the president of the Ivorian Association of Senior Women Health Executives and the Singrobo Mutual Development Association. Additionally, she was a founding member of the Ivorian Women Leaders Network, demonstrating her commitment to empowering women and advancing their rights.
In pursuit of her humanitarian goals, Kouamé established the General Akissi Foundation. This foundation focused on providing essential infrastructure in remote villages and supporting the education of women and children. The foundation’s initiatives had a significant impact on improving the lives of marginalized communities and promoting education, particularly for girls.
Despite her many achievements, Kouamé faced personal challenges in her life. She was married to Lebahy Kouamé and had two children. However, in 2017, she entered into a customary marriage with Sylla Maciré. Unfortunately, their relationship ended when Maciré was arrested on fraud charges in the same year. Tragically, Maciré took his own life in February 2018.
Throughout her career, Kouamé shattered glass ceilings and earned the respect of her peers and subordinates. Her dedication to her profession, passion for healthcare, and commitment to gender equality left an indelible mark on the Ivorian army and society as a whole. Kouamé’s tireless efforts paved the way for future generations of women to excel in the military and beyond, inspiring countless individuals to dream and achieve greatness.
Awards:
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