After a successful weekend of inaugural festivities, I want to take this time to extend my appreciation to all Mandingoes who took off from their jobs and personal engagements to attend the inauguration of officials of The Federation of Mandingo Associations of the United States of America (FELMAUSA). I specially want to say thanks to members of my home State organization, Minnesota Mandingo Association, for the huge turn out in support of our FELMAUSA’s membership. To the host organization, Wisconsin Mandingo Association of Milwaukee, my hat is off in honor of the excellent time, hard work and efforts that went into planning an outstanding inauguration program. 

To our community partners, the city of Milwaukee, Minnesota Advocates for Human Rights, The Liberian government representative, Deputy Minister for information Abu Kamara, Mbalou Kante, one of Africa’s best musicians,  and our dynamic guest speaker, Dr. Augustine Konneh, I want to say thank you for lending us your supports.        

Few months back when we discussed the formation of FELMAUSA, we had predictions, hopes and high expectations about the future of the new organization. What we did not know at the time was how it will unfold. After a successful inauguration and inspiring speeches, there is no doubt that the fog that many saw ahead when we went for the convention in June and July, 2007 is becoming less smoggy. As the future becomes clearer, what we need at the moment is steadfastness, commitment and the resolve to be persistent. In the words of Margaret Mead, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, concerned citizens can change the world: indeed, it’s the only thing that ever does.”  I am confident that we are thoughtful and concerned citizens because all we want to see in our community and country Liberia are positive improvements in the lives of our people.

Now that my status as Vice President Elect has changed to Vice President proper, my word to you is that I am ready to put myself to work to do the things you elected me to do. I am also sure that other officials are thinking the same.  As Vice President for operation, one of my responsibilities is to oversee formulation of project proposals and provide representation for the Federation as required. A week from today, work on implementing some of FELMAUSA’s short term goals will begin. With the blessing of the board, you should be able to read in days a document detailing FELMAUSA’S first project. While there is nothing specific in here, below are few of the projects FELMAUSA is committed to implementing in a short term.

Short-term Project that will have immediate impact:

1. The provision of scholarships to deserving students

2. The payment of West African Examination Council (WAEC) fees for deserving students

3. The provision of school materials, i.e. copybooks, pencil, book bags, chalks, etc to deserving schools and students

As you read through, remember that the success of these projects is not the responsibility of the leadership alone. Without the supports of you the members, we can go nowhere.  I am therefore asking each and every member to be prepared for what is coming. Whether it is donation in cash or kind, we want to see the willingness of our membership to do what they did when we organized FELMAUSA. Be charitable so that someone in need can benefit. Imagine what an entire school year supply would do for a parent and student with limited resource. Imagine a twelve grader graduating because FELMAUSA provided him/her the means to sit the national exam. Let us do something so that (as it is said in New Orleans) God can bless your heart.

If you ever had misgivings in the past about management of funds, I want to assure you that there will be proper accountability for whatever goes through my authority. My office is pledging to adhere to wherever possible you direct your funds. We will make sure that the intended targets benefit so that when we come back for our long term projects, you will be more willing to provide support. 

I really think that this is the time we talk less and do more. It almost seems overdue for this community, mainly those in the United States, to do something meaningful for itself. While Individual assistance is good and well intended, consider what an entire community support would be like.  I know we can do this, let us all do what we can for our people. If there are any suggestions you want us to consider, please feel free to contact me at: vpoperation@felmausa.org

I will conclude with Kofi Anna’s answer when asked about becoming a global citizen. He said “start from your own community.” I hope we can heed the words of this noble gentleman.

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