The Krio Descendants Union Maryland (KDU-MD) has made history in the United States by hosting a highly successful and distinguished 2025 Global Family Reunion, which drew thousands of Krios and their descendants from August 28 to September 1 in Maryland.
The five-day celebration brought together communities from across the world to honor Krio heritage through cultural, religious, and social events.
The reunion opened with a visit to the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, DC, where participants explored exhibits connected to Sierra Leone’s history, including documents from the Amistad case featuring Sengbe Pieh. The day concluded with a youth town hall and cultural evening of parables, music, and dance.
On the second day, KDU Global held a Muslim Thanksgiving Service at the Diyanet Center of America, followed by a “Meet & Greet” attended by over 500 guests at the Hampton Conference Center. The evening featured Krio cuisine, music, and a fashion show showcasing traditional and modern designs.
Saturday’s program included a symposium at The Crowne Plaza in Greenbelt on the global influence of Krios, an Awujoh luncheon in Beltsville, and a grand Dinner and Dance at Martin’s Crosswinds with over 1,200 attendees. A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the inaugural Mrs. Cassandra Garber Award to Ms. Iyamide Thomas.
A Christian Thanksgiving Service at St. John Baptist Church in Columbia on Sunday drew over 300 worshippers, with dignitaries including Ambassador Amara Sowa in attendance. The day ended with a symbolic handover ceremony as hosting duties officially passed from KDU-Maryland to KDU-Georgia.
The reunion concluded on Monday with a “Yangeh Yangeh” brunch cruise aboard The Spirit of Washington, where more than 350 participants celebrated with food, music, and fellowship.
The event reaffirmed the role of KDU as the largest Krio organization outside Sierra Leone, with chapters in the USA, Canada, Australia, and the UK.
Organizers emphasized that the reunion not only celebrated cultural pride but also strengthened global connections among Krios and their descendants.
