Attorney General Alpha Sesay Promotes African Diaspora Unity at NAMWA 2026 Celebration
Sierra Leone’s Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Alpha Sesay, has delivered the keynote address at the 2026 Annual Music Concert Dinner and Dance organised by the North America Mandingo Women Association (NAMWA) in Maryland, United States. Sesay called for unity among Mandingos and the larger African diaspora during his address.
The event brought together members and friends of NAMWA to celebrate Mandingo culture and strengthen ties among Mandingo communities in North America and their connections with Africa.
In his keynote address, Sesay focused on the importance of strengthening relationships between the African diaspora and the continent. He stressed the role such connections can play in promoting unity, development and shared values among communities.
“There’s something incredibly powerful about seeing our heritage celebrated and brought to life so beautifully,” Sesay said, reflecting on the celebration the following day.
The annual NAMWA celebration provides an opportunity for Mandingo communities in North America to come together, celebrate their cultural heritage and strengthen relationships.
Sierra Leone’s First Lady, Fatima Bio, also attended the celebration. She used the occasion to promote Mandingo culture and highlight the importance of education and empowerment for girls in Sierra Leone and among Sierra Leoneans living in the diaspora.
The First Lady has previously spoken about her pride in her Mandingo heritage and the values associated with the culture, including family, community, dignity, resilience and leadership.
The Mandingo, also known as Mandinka or Maninka, are part of the wider Mande cultural group of West Africa. Their history is closely linked to the ancient Mali Empire, and Mandingo communities have long been present across countries including Mali, Guinea, Senegal, The Gambia, Guinea Bissau, Sierra Leone and Liberia.