By Chief Ibrahim Phodei Sheriff, Director of Media and Communications, Mende Descendants Union International Federation
Abu Ben Khalif Daboh, Governor
The Mende Descendants Union International Federation (MDUIF) is set to host its Third Annual Convention from July 24 to 26, 2026, in Houston, Texas, bringing together Mende descendants from across the United States for a three-day celebration of unity, culture, leadership and organizational development.
The convention is expected to attract delegates from approximately ten Mende chiefdoms representing nine U.S. states, including Paramount Chiefs, Chiefdom Executives, Councils of Elders and general members, all committed to strengthening the Federation while preserving the rich cultural heritage of the Mende people.
Activities will begin on Friday, July 24, with a Meet and Greet Reception, where participants will reconnect, welcome new members and receive an official welcome from the host Paramount Chief, Chief Augusta Kamara-Jackson. The opening event will also feature an exhibition of traditional Mende cuisine, including a variety of Hakpei (Mende soups) and other cultural delicacies prepared by women from participating chiefdoms.
Paramount Chiefs leading delegations to the convention include Chief Cecelia Gegbe (Dallas), Chief Augusta Kamara-Jackson (Houston), Chief Rebecca Kaikai(Massachusetts), Chief Alusine Adonis Amara (DMV), Chief Agatha Demby (New Jersey), Chief Eleanor Banya (California), Chief Jeneba Mimie Swaray (Ohio), Regent Chief Jason Bayoh (Indiana), Regent Chief Mattu Songa (Minnesota), and Regent Chief Yusuf Kemokai (Dakota).
In keeping with Mende tradition, the convention will open with ancestral prayers led by a respected elder, seeking blessings, wisdom and unity for the gathering before the introduction of participating chiefdoms and presentation of the convention programme.
The Federation’s Business Convention will take place on Saturday, July 25, at the Park Eight Event Center, where delegates will deliberate on key issues affecting the future of the organization.
Among the major agenda items are the review and adoption of the MDUIF Constitution, the establishment of new chiefdoms across the diaspora, leadership development, governance, financial accountability, membership expansion and other strategic initiatives aimed at strengthening the Federation.
Delegates are expected to adopt a final constitution that will serve as the supreme governing document for MDUIF and its constituent chiefdoms.
Saturday evening will feature the highly anticipated Royal Aso Ebi Cultural Night, with members dressed in metallic gold-themed attire symbolising unity, prosperity and excellence. The event will include the inauguration and installation of newly elected Paramount Chiefs, who will receive traditional staffs of authority and occupy ceremonial thrones in accordance with Mende customs.
Guests will also be treated to performances by renowned traditional Mende masquerades, including Ngorboi, Sowui, Ngafei, Korngorli and Njobai, alongside cultural dances and entertainment showcasing the richness of Mende heritage.
Outstanding members, community leaders, elders and founding members of the Federation will receive awards in recognition of their service and contributions to the growth of MDUIF.
The convention will conclude on Sunday, July 26, with a Family Picnic and Barbecue at Alief Amity Park, hosted by the Houston Chiefdom. The event will feature food, music, games, networking and additional cultural performances in a relaxed family atmosphere.
Organisers disclosed that an invitation has been extended to Sierra Leone’s First Lady, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, to attend the convention as Guest of Honour during her visit to the United States. If she accepts, the Federation intends to honour her for her advocacy in women’s empowerment, education, healthcare and national development.
MDUIF currently operates under an interim governance structure led by Interim Governor Abu Ben KhalifDaboh and Deputy Governor Mrs. Rose Cooper, supported by an Interim Executive Committee and Board of Directors representing constituent chiefdoms across the United States.
The Federation traces its origins to 2018, when Mende descendants in Dallas, Texas, established what was then known as the Mende Descendants Development Association (MDDA). Following its formal registration in 2020, the organisation expanded significantly under the leadership of Chief Abu Daboh, eventually evolving into the Mende Descendants Union International Federation (MDUIF) with chiefdoms now established in several U.S. states.
Looking ahead, MDUIF also announced plans to publish a Federation Magazine documenting the history, culture and achievements of the Mende people. The publication will include historical accounts, biographies, cultural features and stories highlighting the contributions of Mende people to Sierra Leone and the wider diaspora.
Organisers say this year’s convention will serve as more than an annual meeting, describing it as a celebration of identity, cultural heritage, leadership and unity, while reaffirming the Federation’s commitment to preserving Mende traditions for future generations.
