By Foday Mahmood Mansaray
The Mandingo Union for the United Kingdom and Ireland has reaffirmed its confidence in Alhaji Ibrahim Sheriff by re-electing him unopposed as Chairman for a second consecutive term during its annual elections held on Sunday, 29th June 2025. The election was conducted by trustees of the Union, Sheik Baimba Conteh, Karamo Daboh and Ismael Kallon who oversaw a smooth and transparent process that culminated in Alhaji Ibrahim Sheriff’s continued leadership.
Other executive members elected include Mariama Seray Sannoh as Vice Chairperson and Foday Mahmood Mansaray as Assistant Secretary General.
Formed in August 2014, the Mandingo Union UK & Ireland has grown into a dynamic diaspora organization with over 100 registered members, of which more than 90 are actively involved. The Union is committed to promoting peace, unity and progress among individuals of Mandingo heritage both in the UK and globally. It also serves as a support system, offering emotional, moral and financial assistance during significant life events such as weddings, naming ceremonies, bereavements and natural disasters.
In keeping with the Union’s constitution, Alhaji Ibrahim Sheriff dissolved his Executive ahead of the elections to allow an open nomination process. However, an overwhelming majority endorsed him to continue, highlighting his dedication, strategic leadership and steadfast commitment to the Union’s mission.
Alhaji Ibrahim Sheriff is widely respected for his inclusive leadership style, strong listening skills and focus on collective well-being. His working relationship with Vice Chairperson, Mariama Seray Sannoh, has been noted as a pillar of the Union’s strength and unity.
With 95% of members backing his re-election, the result reflects broad satisfaction with the Union’s direction under Alhaji Ibrahim Sheriff’s leadership.
The Mandingo people, also known as the Mandinka, are part of the larger Mande ethnic group with deep historical roots in West Africa, particularly in Sierra Leone, Mali, Senegal, Gambia, Guinea, Ivory Coast and Guinea-Bissau. The Mandingo Union UK & Ireland plays a crucial role in preserving cultural identity, promoting community cohesion and advocating for the welfare of Mandingo descendants in the diaspora.
In his address, Alhaji Ibrahim Sheriff thanked members for their trust and described the re-election as a reflection of the Union’s enduring unity and purpose.
“This is not only an honour, but a testament to the faith, confidence and unity we continue to share as a people,” he said.
Under his leadership, the Union has achieved several notable milestones, including:
- Registering as a UK charity in 2017
- Awarding five-year scholarships to children in Sierra Leone
- Providing annual Ramadan donations of rice and cash to mosques across Sierra Leone
- Supporting healthcare for individuals and institutions
- Contributing to bereavement and charity fundraisers in the UK
“These initiatives reflect not just our size, but our unity, compassion and unwavering commitment to helping others,” he added.
Looking ahead, Alhaji Ibrahim Sheriff unveiled an ambitious plan to establish a permanent Community Centre for the Mandingo Union UK. The envisioned facility will serve as a hub for community services; offering support for the elderly, youth and those facing immigration, housing or employment challenges. It will also include a religious space for prayer and spiritual reflection.
“This centre will be more than just a building; it will be a home for our people, a place of support, guidance and togetherness,” Alhaji Ibrahim Sheriff declared. “Though led by the Mandingo Union it will be open to all, embracing unity beyond tribe or background.”
He concluded by urging continued support from the membership:
“I cannot do it alone. I need your ideas, your time, your energy. Together, we’ve built something powerful. Now, together, let us build something permanent.”
With a renewed mandate and a clear vision, Alhaji Ibrahim Sheriff’s leadership continues to inspire confidence as the Mandingo Union UK & Ireland strengthens its legacy of service, solidarity and community empowerment.
