Centuries past, our forebears ventured into our current abode, Kono, migrating from a region in the hilly terrain east of Sierra Leone in Guinea. This historical narrative finds validation in the rich tapestry of our Kono Legends. Our ancestral dwelling is referred to as “Kono-Su-Ko” (Under the Kono Root), derived from Kono-Su, the name of a hill in Guinea situated roughly fifty miles northeast of our contemporary Kono District.
The proximity to this hill has bestowed upon us a unique linguistic heritage known as the Kono Language, though we were historically identified as the Lelli people. Despite the evolving global landscape, a steadfast element of our Kono heritage endures—the resilience of our language. Our Kono Language serves as the navigational chart of our culture, revealing our origins, defining our present, and guiding our future trajectory.
Our conviction lies in the belief that our Kono Language constitutes a pivotal source of our continuity and cultural identity. Consequently, we are committed to transmitting our cultural legacy through oral traditions, fostering a potential written system for our language. This endeavor is driven by the aspiration to equip our offspring with the means to safeguard our culture and preserve our distinctive identity.
Within the fabric of our culture, our Kono Language assumes paramount significance. It serves as the conduit through which we impart ideas, share stories, disseminate knowledge, and shape attitudes for the ensuing generations. The profound interplay between language and culture is underscored by the notion that "Language allows culture to develop by freeing people to move beyond their immediate experiences." Without our cherished Kono Language, our memories would be constrained, as we intricately link experiences with words, utilizing language as the vessel for recalling significant moments.
Above all, our resolute intention is to prevent the fading of our Kono Language and, by extension, our cultural heritage. In recognizing the pivotal role language plays in shaping cultural narratives, we endeavor to preserve the essence of who we are, ensuring that the vibrant tapestry of our heritage remains an indelible part of our collective identity.
NIMOWAMA: Empowering the Future of Kono District In the heart of Sierra Leone lies Kono District, once a beacon of economic promise that has unfortunately fallen behind. Witnessing this decline has fueled the creation of Nimowama, meaning “If Not Us..?” in English, a beacon of hope dedicated to revitalizing Kono District.
Our mission is clear to uplift the community and ensure that the setbacks faced by the adults in Kono District do not hinder the potential of the children and youth—the true future of the district. Moreover, we are dedicated to strengthening communities by granting them access to transformative opportunities that unleash their complete potential, transforming aspirations into tangible reality. Grounded in a dedication to excellence, inclusivity, and innovation, our aim is to establish a vibrant learning environment where individuals can flourish and make meaningful.
contributions to their communities and beyond. We invite you to join us in constructing a more promising future through education, skill development, and the fulfillment of aspirations. Nimowama serves as a catalyst for positive change, focusing on key pillars such as education,health, environment, and infrastructure. We believe in the power of collective support, and that's where you come in.
By contributing to Nimowama, you become a vital part of the global effort to breathe new life into Kono District. Your support will directly impact the lives of the people in the district, fostering positive transformations that resonate across generations. Join us on this journey of empowerment, where changing lives is not just a goal but a
commitment. Together, let's build a better future for the communities of Kono District—one filled with education, improved health, a sustainable environment, and robust infrastructure.
Your donation to Nimowama or any reputable organization is an investment in the potential of Kono District's youth, ensuring they have the tools and opportunities needed to thrive. Be a driving force behind the resurgence of this once-promising region and help us shape a brighter tomorrow for Kono District. If not us, then who? Your support matters, and together, we can make a lasting impact.