President Julius Maada Bio welcomed leaders and members of the Ferensola Organisation to State House, where they pledged their unwavering support and loyalty to his administration.
The delegation, comprising Paramount Chiefs from Koinadugu, Falaba, and Tonkolili districts, was introduced by Deputy Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources, Umaru Napoleon Koroma. He described the Ferensola Organisation as a longstanding Kuranko friendship group, established in the 1980s to foster unity among their people across Sierra Leone. While historically non-political, the group has played a crucial role in uniting the Kuranko community.
Paramount Chief Alie Balasama Marah III, Chairman of the Ferensola Council of Paramount Chiefs, expressed gratitude to President Bio for the audience. He outlined the organisation’s objectives, which include preserving Kuranko cultural heritage, supporting community members, and contributing to national development. He formally entrusted the organisation’s revival to the President, seeking his support.
Dr. Shekou Sesay, leader of the Ferensola Organisation, traced the group’s origins to the Kuranko migration from the Mali Empire. He emphasized the need for its revival under President Bio’s leadership and highlighted the organisation’s membership, including 14 Paramount Chiefs and their traditional authorities. He assured the President of their commitment to his administration’s success.
President Bio expressed deep appreciation for the Ferensola Organisation’s mission, commending their efforts in preserving cultural identity and promoting unity. He praised the Kuranko community for their loyalty and contributions to national development.
Reflecting on his personal journey, President Bio acknowledged the support he received from the Kuranko people, particularly from his former military mentors. He urged the organisation to prioritize quality education for their children, enabling them to contribute to the advancement of their districts and the nation.
ABJ/APA