Noël Ballay; physician, explorer, diplomat, and distinguished dignitary

Noël Ballay was born in 1847 at Fontenay-sur-Eure (France). He was destined for medicine career. In 1874 he was award-winner as an "Externe" of the Hospitals of Paris. In 1875 his meeting with Savorgnan de Brazza completely changed his way of life. Thus, with him, he took part in three expeditions in Equatorial Africa. As French delegate in two international Conferences (Berlin 1885 - Bruxelles 1890) he then became a colonial administrator and served to the best of his abilities in commanding positions (with great determination and stamina) as Lieutenant-Governor of Gabon, Governor of Guinea and Founder of Conakry City, and General Governor of the French Occidental Africa. Still as a physician, he also dedicated his life to public health.