KAKATA — Former Liberian Ambassador to the United States of America, who hails from Bong County, has called on the Kpelle and Kpelle speaking people of Liberia to remain united in order to preserve their cultural heritage, strengthen peaceful coexistence, and build a prosperous future for generations yet unborn.
By Selma Lomax, [email protected]
Speaking Saturday, May 16, 2026, at the National Unification Program of the National Association of the Kpelle and Kpelle Speaking People of Liberia held in, Ambassador Sulunteh emphasized that unity remains the greatest strength of the Kpelle people and a necessary pathway toward national peace and development.
Addressing traditional chiefs, elders, zoes, members of the Board of Directors, officers of the association, invited guests, and hundreds of attendees, Sulunteh said the gathering marked a significant moment in the history of the Kpelle people as they seek to reinforce solidarity among themselves.
“Today, we gather here in this beautiful city of Kakata as a people united by ethnicity, culture, and inspired by our identity to commemorate this day of unification,” Sulunteh declared. “It is often said that in unity there is strength, courage, and peaceful coexistence.”
The former ambassador reflected on the historical origins of the Kpelle people, noting that their forefathers migrated from the savanna region of western Sudan, present day Mali, before eventually settling in Liberia.
He stated that the Kpelle people produced powerful traditional leaders who governed territories, negotiated peace with the Americo-Liberian government, and maintained strong influence over their people.
According to him, the new movement toward reunification among the Kpelle and Kpelle speaking people demonstrates a renewed determination to work together for a prosperous future.
“As we begin this journey of total reunification, we are reminded of the work of our forefathers whose footprints are written in the sand of our history,” Sulunteh stated. “They were leaders of peace and unity who protected their clans and chiefdoms while preserving our cultural norms and values.”
Sulunteh further stated that the sacrifices made by historical Kpelle leaders should never be forgotten, especially at a time when Liberia continues to seek deeper reconciliation and national cohesion. He said the courage, wisdom, and resilience demonstrated by those traditional leaders laid the foundation for peace and stability in many communities across the country.
According to him, their leadership extended beyond tribal boundaries and contributed significantly to strengthening mutual respect among various ethnic groups in Liberia.
The former ambassador noted that younger generations must begin to appreciate the value of cultural identity and traditional leadership in national development. He stressed that preserving the stories and achievements of past leaders remains essential to promoting patriotism, unity, and respect for Liberia’s rich cultural heritage.
Sulunteh added that the Kpelle people have a proud history of leadership, peaceful negotiation, and community cooperation that should continue to serve as a guiding example for the nation.
“We must never allow the names and contributions of our forefathers to disappear from the pages of history because these were men and women who dedicated their lives to defending their people, preserving peace, and promoting unity among communities during difficult periods of our national existence,” Sulunteh said. “Their sacrifices remind us that true leadership is about service, courage, humility, and commitment to the wellbeing of the people.”
He added, “Today, as we honor these historic figures, we are also sending a message to future generations that unity remains the cornerstone of progress and national transformation. Our ancestors fought to preserve our identity, our dignity, and our peace, and it is now our collective responsibility to continue that noble journey for the benefit of Liberia and all its people.”
During the program, Ambassador Sulunteh paid tribute to several prominent historical leaders whose contributions, he said, continue to inspire peace and unity among the Kpelle people across Liberia.
Among those memorialized were Gbanyan-Kollie Wolomeyahn of Jorquelleh Chiefdom, Barsee Kpangbai of Jorquelleh, Dokpah Barwolor, Dolokelen Gboveh, Jawoe Mananah of Gbaota, Gorpu Dolo Gboi of Jorpolu, Gweimei Woah of Panta, Dolokelen Paye of Panta, Kolleh Gwee of Salala, Botoe Barclay of Fuamah, Chief Gbili of Sanoyea, Nowai Leemu of Kpaai, Nyanquoi Bee of Kpaai, Kolliemileen Toto of Totota, Gormalon Walker of Salala, Ne Sua Koko of Jorquelleh, Flomo Wennah of Jorquelleh, Lango Lippaye of Kakata, Chief Jallah Lon of Bopolu, Chief Kahn Gibson of Margibi, Chief Sirleaf Smite, Chief Fahn Lepolu, Chief Musu Yango, Chief Kpaingbah Dwana, Chief Ma Woikpeh, and Gabriel William Kpoleh of Kollita in Panta Chiefdom.
Sulunteh urged members of the Kpelle community to preserve the legacy of their ancestors by promoting peace, reconciliation, and unity throughout Liberia.
“As we discuss the way forward as a people to an everlasting unity, may our ancestral spirits continue to live in our hearts for a united Liberia,” he said.
The event brought together Kpelle people and invited guests from different parts of Liberia in a celebration marked by cultural pride, traditional recognition, and renewed calls for national unity and peaceful coexistence.
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