By Fatmata Bundu – Popular businessman, philanthropist, and influential politician Sheik Mohamed Ormodu Kamara, widely known as “Jagaban,” recently addressed a gathering of Sierra Leoneans in Virginia, United States. Jagaban, a key member of Sierra Leone’s main opposition party, the All People’s Congress (APC), was invited to speak by the organizers of the “APC New Pathway” movement. The event aimed to promote peace and unity within the APC while also reflecting on the future of Sierra Leone.
Jagaban began his speech by expressing his gratitude to the organizers for choosing him as a representative for the movement. He commended their initiative and vision, emphasizing the importance of peace, reconciliation, and collaboration within the APC. He also highlighted the role of young people in shaping the future of Sierra Leone, noting that they are vital to driving change and improving the country’s prospects.
In his address, Jagaban focused on several key themes, including empowerment, leadership failures, and the need for change. He argued that a united APC, with strong leadership, is the only way forward for the country. “We cannot move forward unless we work together as one force,” he stated, stressing the necessity of overcoming divisions within the party and focusing on the collective goal of national development.
Jagaban also acknowledged the severe economic challenges facing Sierra Leone, particularly the widespread poverty and hunger that many Sierra Leoneans endure. He spoke passionately about the hardship people are experiencing, revealing how deeply it pains him to see families struggling to put food on the table. He called for urgent action to address these issues and for leaders to prioritize the well-being of the people.
He went on to express his determination to work with party stakeholders to foster unity within the APC and to create a formidable force capable of bringing about meaningful change. He encouraged Sierra Leoneans to “give back” to the country, highlighting the importance of collective responsibility in addressing the nation’s problems.
Delving into the country’s ongoing issues, Jagaban addressed concerns such as economic hardship, corruption, and ineffective governance under the current administration. He emphasized that the leadership of the APC, once reformed, could provide the solutions to these challenges.
Reflecting on his own personal journey, Jagaban recalled the contributions of his late father, who played a pivotal role in rescuing Northern Sierra Leoneans from the political turmoil caused by the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) in the South and East. While he was a young man at the time, he was keenly aware of his father’s efforts to help the APC grow as a party dedicated to national development.
Jagaban also shared his experience as a successful entrepreneur, explaining how his company, which began with just $100, has grown into a multi-million-dollar empire with over 400 employees, more than half of whom are Sierra Leoneans. He stressed that his mission is to improve the lives of people, not to take from them, and he encouraged the community to never underestimate anyone’s potential to make a difference.
Throughout his speech, Jagaban made it clear that his mission is to help transform Sierra Leone, not only through political leadership but also by setting an example as a businessman who has invested in the country’s people and economy. He cited his ability to mobilize resources and support during the 2023 general elections, where he played a key role in securing the support of the Southern and Eastern regions.
The event also featured remarks from key organizers of the “New Pathway” movement, including Miracle Dumbuya, who stressed that the gathering was an opportunity for Sierra Leoneans abroad to reflect on the political situation back home. Miracle Dumbuya explained that Jagaban was chosen as the ideal representative due to his exemplary leadership, his unwavering love for Sierra Leone, and his years of dedicated service to the country.
Husainatu Jalloh and Martha Koroma also spoke at the event, echoing similar sentiments about Jagaban’s leadership qualities and his potential to lead Sierra Leone to a brighter future. The event was chaired by Mohamed DeeDee Bangura, who emphasized the need for unity within the APC. DeeDee Bangura lamented the various factions within the party and called for an end to the blame game, urging party members to come together for the greater good of Sierra Leone.
Sheik Mohamed Ormodu ‘Jagaban’ Kamara concluded his address by reaffirming his commitment to Sierra Leone and his belief that the APC, under the right leadership, can bring about the change the country desperately needs. His message of hope, unity, and determination resonated with the audience, leaving them inspired to continue working toward a brighter future for Sierra Leone.
