It was a radiant Saturday in South East London and Burgess Park was alive with a vibrant celebration that sent the park into a retinal meltdown.

The occasion, MANINKAYAA, a Mandingo term for “Mandingo Business,” symbolizing unity and camaraderie across tribes and nationalities took place in one of London’s most prestigious parks called ” Burgess Park” which was known for its expensive recreational facilities and green lustrous spaces.

It was a true scene of ecstasy that showcased the Cultural promotion of Pride and Unity amongst the Mandingo People in the diaspora, while also fostering the broader cultural understanding within the diverse population in the city of London.

The air was charged with love, laughter, and the kind of joyous spirit that can only be described as infectious.

The scene of Burgess Park provided a perfect “cultural pageantry” of the Mandingo culture with attendees enjoying the traditional Mandingo music and dance and other performances.

The aroma of sumptuous food filled the air, and the Mandingo community did what they do best: they feasted and danced.

Chunks of SOBO (meat) and chicken pieces flowed with ease, and the dance-moves rivaled the grace of a pack of young energetic antelopes-like as they let loose with joy, bringing the park to life again and again.

Presiding over the festivities was the towering legacy of the great Mandingo king, Mansa Kankan Musa, his golden silhouette a protective and inspiring presence spread in one vantage end of the park.

The park itself, a picturesque expanse with a serene lake and lush greenery, was a perfect setting for this joyous event.

This year’s BURGESS PARK event was dubbed a *MANDINGO UNION UK/IRELAND FREE EID BBQ*, a grand gesture of unity and celebration.

Some prominent figures were: Alhaji Ibrahim Sheriff, Chairman of the Mandingo Union UK and Ireland,  Vice Chairlady Madam Mariama Seray Sannoh, Mr Ahmed Kabba and Secretary General Sorieba Sillah. They were the event coordinators and were seen mingling with the crowd, while their faces were glowing with pride and satisfaction.

The BBQ event created the opportunity for members to reconnect with family friends, and strengthen their sense of Unity.

The event fostered Unity and Support within the Mandingo Union in the UK & IR. It also helped to raise awareness about the Union’s efforts and activities.

Reflecting on the success of the event, the revered President of the National Mandingo Union, Mansa Alhaji Kanja Sesay, shared his heartfelt emotions in an open congratulatory message to the group, expressing his admiration and appreciation for what was clearly a very successful BBQ event.

He congratulated the organizers and thanked the attendees. The esteemed Mandingo leader also underscored the importance of such events which seek to bring together communities of friends and people of goodwill, “to meet, greet, rejoice, and stay united”.

The Mandingo Union of UK & IR came out with their modest means to convey their authentic “cultural heritage” by moving the city of London into an atmosphere of cultural pageantry.

The event was a testament to the power of community and culture, leaving an indelible mark on everyone who attended.

 

By Sorieba Sillah

Secretary-General

Mandingo Union U.K./IRELAND