By Donstance Koroma
The recent launch of the West Africa Sierra Leone Gullah/Geechee Ring shout connection markedthe biggest gathering ever in the history of the cultural heritage connection.
The launch at the Mitta Conference centre on Saturday 12th January 2019 also marked the homecoming of Commissioner Griffin Lotson, Mayor Proten, City of Darien Georgia, USA.
The Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs stands to benefit, owing to the fact that the said Commissioner has huge interest in Africa Cultural Heritage since he is the Federal Government Commissioner, National Treasurer of the Gullah/ Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor Commission.
Griffin Lotson, during his keynote address, informed Sierra Leone Gullah/ Geechee family that the song “KUMBA YAA” originated from the Gullah culture of West Africa and the oldest known recording in the world (300 years) with a native clap and beat.
The Mayor in-waiting also presented the USA flag that was flown by the Gullah/Geechee in America on the 22nd July 2011, when Barrack Obama was President of the United States of America to the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education for onward transmission to President Bio and wife.
The advent of the Gullahs in America, especially from Georgia, Florida, North and South Carolina, on December 2019, paved the way for those Africa American billionaires in dollars to invest in their home land since root is home and home is home.
The endorsement of Commissioner Griffin Lotson’s visit by the United States Congress and the White House, through the invitation of the Ministry of Tourism, the Office of the First Lady, Mrs. Fatima Jabbie Bio, speaks volumes on the seriousness of both governments to move forward with such historic relationship.
The appointment of the President, Sierra Leone Gullah Kinship Association, Osman B. Sesay, as the Chief Executive Consultant, West Africa Gullah/Geechee Ring Shout Connection Sierra Leone, added more credence to the fact that African Americans are yearning to come home to interact with their lost relatives.
The President, Sierra Leone Gullah Kinship Association, thanked the Commissioner for, according him, such a noble capacity, which he referred to as a new year’s gift presented to the country and the organization.
Osman B. Sesay promised to do all in his powers to collaborate with government in ensuring that the relationship is strengthened.