LONDON, 19 September 2026 —
Sierra Leone’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, His Excellency Dr Morie Komba Manyeh, joined community leaders, dignitaries, families and supporters at the Fullah Progressive Union UK & Ireland (FPU UK&I) National Fullah Day and Fundraising Event in London.
Held at the prestigious Royal Regency Hall in East London, the event was a vibrant celebration of Fullah culture and heritage, promoting unity while raising support for community development. The programme featured cultural performances, poetry recitations, awards, entertainment and networking.
The occasion also highlighted the cultural resilience of the Fullah people, whose strong attachment to their heritage, family values and community traditions has endured across generations and geographical boundaries. Throughout the evening, the respectful and dignified demeanour of those in attendance reflected the values of courtesy, hospitality and mutual respect that remain integral to Fullah community life.
Adding colour and splendour to the celebration was a striking display of Fullah fashion. Guests appeared in an array of colourful and elegantly styled traditional attire, transforming the venue into a vivid showcase of cultural pride. Rich fabrics, intricate designs, flowing garments, distinctive headwear and carefully coordinated accessories illustrated how traditional dress continues to serve as a powerful expression of Fullah identity and heritage.
Masters of Ceremonies Mr Mohamed Sadiku Dabo and Mrs Salma Barrie skilfully guided proceedings through a programme celebrating Fullah identity, community achievements and FPU UK&I’s aspirations for the future.
High Commissioner Dr Manyeh attended with his wife, Mrs Marie Manyeh, alongside Deputy High Commissioner Mrs Yvonne King Odigboh. All three had been invited to serve as patrons of the occasion, reflecting FPU UK&I’s desire to forge lasting relationships with those who support its mission, growth and community initiatives.
During the celebration, Dr Manyeh, Mrs Manyeh and Mrs Odigboh were among those called upon to present awards to deserving organisations and individuals in recognition of their contributions to the community.
The formal programme included opening prayers, a traditional welcome ceremony, cultural performances and the introduction of FPU UK&I’s Executive Committee. The organisation’s Vice Chairman and Women’s Leader delivered official addresses, while Treasurer Habib Jalloh presented an overview of FPU UK&I’s vision, achievements, community work and future objectives.
Poetry provided another expression of cultural identity during the evening. Among the poems presented was “*From the Niger to the Nile: Pulaaku*,” which reflected on the shared heritage of the Fulɓe people and the enduring values of Pulaaku, including patience, dignity, respect, wisdom and recognition of the humanity of others. It also underscored the importance of preserving the Fulfulde language and passing Fullah identity, traditions and values on to future generations.
Other highlights included a guest-of-honour address by Hajah Khadijatu Jabbie-Jalloh, and a special address on unity and prosperity by Sheikh Mahmud Jalloh.
A goodwill message from Sierra Leone’s Vice President, Dr Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, was warmly delivered on his behalf by Hon. Mohamed Haji-Kella, Deputy Minister of Social Welfare, Gender and Children’s Affairs. The message emphasised the importance of maintaining community cohesion and encouraged members to serve as agents of peace and progress nationally and internationally.
The gathering also witnessed the inauguration of the Chairman, involving Mr Tijan Jalloh, the Electoral Commissioner and outgoing Chairman Alhajie Mohamed Jalloh, marking an important leadership transition for the organisation.
This was followed by Chairman Alhaji Ibrahim Bah’s official address.
The evening concluded with cultural entertainment featuring Marraine Diana Sidime, live performances by artists such as Firewoodz and Fulabee, and music from DJ King.
Beyond the speeches, awards and entertainment, the celebration presented a compelling picture of a community proud of its roots while confidently embracing life in a diverse and modern society. The colourful traditional attire, poetry, cultural performances and respectful atmosphere reflected the Fullah community’s determination to preserve its identity and pass its rich heritage on to younger generations.
The celebration brought FPU UK&I’s motto, “*Fottal e Pottal — Together in Unity and Progress*,” vividly to life, combining pride in Fullah heritage and cultural resilience with a call for collective action, stronger community bonds and continued development.
Abdulai M. Braima
Information Attaché