By Andrew Chokpeleh
Freetown, 5th October 2026- Celebrations erupted across Fullah communities in Sierra Leone following the election of businessman and philanthropist Alhaji Amadu Juldeh Sowe as President of Tabital Pulaaku International, a global organisation representing Fullah communities across the world.
Sowe secured the position during an international election held in The Gambia, where delegates from more than 34 countries gathered to choose the organisation’s next leader. His victory marks the first time in recent years that Sierra Leone has assumed leadership of the influential body, a development many supporters have described as a major achievement for the country.
Addressing well-wishers after his election, Sowe pledged to lead with a spirit of unity, inclusiveness and progress, stressing that his presidency would not only serve the interests of Fullah communities but also contribute to broader social and economic development.
He disclosed that Tabital Pulaaku International has more than 160 million registered members worldwide and noted that the organisation was previously led by Guinea for 16 years before Nigeria assumed the presidency for four years.
“Sierra Leone now has the opportunity to make history,” Sowe said, expressing confidence that the country’s tenure would be remembered for strengthening the organisation and advancing its objectives.
While acknowledging the organisation’s roots in promoting the welfare of Fullah people, Sowe emphasised that its activities have consistently benefited people from diverse backgrounds, regardless of ethnicity or nationality. He called for collective support from Sierra Leoneans, stating that the success of his administration would depend on unity and cooperation.
He also commended the hospitality shown by Sierra Leone during the electoral process and urged citizens to continue promoting peace and national cohesion throughout his tenure.
Beyond his new international role, Sowe is widely known for establishing what is regarded as Sierra Leone’s largest flour milling company. The investment has been credited with supporting local flour production, reducing dependence on imported products and creating employment opportunities for Sierra Leoneans.
The newly elected president expressed gratitude to President Julius Maada Bio and First Lady Fatima Maada Bio for their support during the election campaign. He also praised the Sierra Leone Embassy in The Gambia for assisting the national delegation and revealed that President Bio maintained a keen interest in the process by seeking regular updates on the election.
Joining the celebration, Paramount Chief Alhaji Ibrahim Kamara of Falaba District described Sowe’s election as a victory not only for the Fullah community but for Sierra Leone as a whole.
He said the confidence shown by delegates from different countries demonstrated international recognition of Sierra Leone’s leadership potential and reflected the country’s growing influence within global organisations.
Chief Kamara also highlighted Sowe’s contributions to education, particularly through scholarship programmes that have benefited students in Falaba and other communities. According to him, the initiatives have helped expand opportunities for disadvantaged young people and support efforts to improve access to education.
He praised Fullah communities around the world for the solidarity that helped secure Sowe’s election and urged members of Tabital Pulaaku International to embrace reconciliation and work together for the organisation’s future.
Against the backdrop of past disagreements and reported legal disputes within the organisation, Chief Kamara said the new administration presents an opportunity to heal divisions, strengthen unity and focus on sustainable development.
He expressed optimism that Sowe’s presidency would foster greater cooperation among members while enhancing Sierra Leone’s profile on the international stage.
