WHO WE ARE
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.