By: Aminata Sesay
President Julius Maada Bio officially took charge of the Ferensola Organisation, a prominent Kuranko cultural group, during a high-profile meeting at State House on Tuesday. The leadership of the group, including Paramount Chiefs from Koinadugu, Falaba, and Tonkolili districts, entrusted the President with reviving the organisation and pledged their full support for his government’s national development agenda.
At the ceremony, the Chairman of the Ferensola Council of Paramount Chiefs, Hon. Paramount Chief Alie Balasama Marah III of Sengbe Chiefdom, formally handed over the leadership of the organisation to President Bio. Chief Marah expressed gratitude for the opportunity to meet the President and emphasized the group’s mission to preserve the Kuranko cultural heritage and foster community support. He underscored the need to revitalize the organisation and called on the President to play a central role in strengthening its influence.
Dr. Shekou Sesay, leader of the Ferensola Organisation, traced the group’s origins to the Kuranko migration from the Mali Empire. He acknowledged that, while the organisation had been inactive in recent years, its revival under President Bio’s leadership would ensure better cultural preservation and unity. Dr. Sesay also reaffirmed the commitment of all 14 Paramount Chiefs from the three districts to support the President’s administration and development programs.
In his response, President Julius Maada Bio expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him and commended the Ferensola Organisation for its dedication to preserving the Kuranko identity and fostering unity. He praised the Kuranko people for their loyalty and hard work, recognizing their significant contributions to Sierra Leone’s development.
“I deeply value the Kuranko people for their unique attributes, which I believe this organisation has successfully passed down from generation to generation,” President Bio remarked. “I urge you all to ensure that your children receive quality education, equipping them to contribute meaningfully to the advancement of their districts and the nation as a whole.”
The President reflected on his personal journey, acknowledging the critical role played by Kuranko military mentors in shaping his career. He expressed deep appreciation for the consistent support the Kuranko community has shown throughout his military and political life.
The event was facilitated by Umaru Napoleon Koroma, Deputy Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources, who introduced the delegation. He described the Ferensola Organisation as a longstanding group founded in the 1980s to promote unity among Kuranko tribesmen. Although historically non-political, the group has become a significant cultural institution, uniting Kurankos across Sierra Leone.
The handing-over ceremony marks a new chapter for the Ferensola Organisation, with President Bio’s leadership expected to bring fresh energy to the group’s activities. With the support of key traditional leaders and the government, the Kuranko community is set to play a more active role in national development while preserving its cultural heritage.