By Edwin N. Khakie
GREENVILLE, Sinoe County, July 10, 2026 – Thousands of citizens, government officials, traditional leaders, lawmakers, and members of the Sinoe County diaspora gathered in Greenville on Thursday to celebrate the county’s 179th Homecoming, using the historic occasion to renew calls for unity, reconciliation, cultural preservation, and accelerated development in one of Liberia’s oldest political subdivisions.
The week-long celebration, held from July 2 to July 9, brought together sons and daughters of Sinoe from across Liberia and abroad to reflect on the county’s rich history, strengthen community ties, and promote a shared vision for sustainable growth. Among those attending were Senator Augustine S. Chea, Representative Alex S. Noah, county officials, traditional leaders, youth groups, women’s organizations, and development partners.
Representative Alex S. Noah delivered the official July 9 Homecoming address, urging citizens to remain united as they advance the county’s development agenda.
He emphasized that Sinoe’s progress depends on collective responsibility, peaceful coexistence, and the active participation of citizens, both at home and in the diaspora.
The celebration followed an earlier appeal by Sinoe County Superintendent Hon. Alexander Nah Sleweon Sr., who called on all citizens to fully participate in the Homecoming activities.
In a special message issued during the event, Superintendent Sleweon described the celebration as a platform to promote unity, reconciliation, cultural pride, youth empowerment, sportsmanship, and inclusive development.
“The success of this Homecoming depends on the collective support and participation of every son and daughter of Sinoe County,” the Superintendent said, encouraging community leaders, youth organizations, women’s groups, institutions, and development partners to work together in making the celebration meaningful and impactful.
He noted that beyond being a reunion, Homecoming serves as an opportunity for citizens to reconnect with their roots, celebrate the county’s cultural heritage, recognize the achievements of distinguished citizens, and strengthen partnerships that can drive long-term development.
Founded between 1835 and 1843 as the Colony of Mississippi-in-Africa by the American Colonization Society, Sinoe became one of Liberia’s three original counties at independence in 1847. Delegates from the county played a significant role in drafting and signing Liberia’s Declaration of Independence, cementing Sinoe’s place in the nation’s political history.
The county is also home to the historic city of Greenville, established in 1838 and named after Judge James Green, a leading supporter of the repatriation movement.
Beyond its historical significance, Sinoe remains one of Liberia’s richest ecological regions, hosting the internationally renowned Sapo National Park, the country’s largest protected rainforest and a sanctuary for endangered wildlife, including pygmy hippopotamuses, western chimpanzees, and African forest elephants.
Despite suffering widespread destruction during Liberia’s civil conflicts, particularly in Greenville, Sinoe has continued rebuilding while preserving its unique cultural identity and natural heritage.
Local leaders believe the annual Homecoming provides an important opportunity to attract investment, strengthen social cohesion, and encourage greater engagement from citizens living abroad.
As festivities concluded, participants reaffirmed their commitment to promoting peace, preserving the county’s history, and working collectively toward a more prosperous future.
The 179th Homecoming celebration served not only as a tribute to Sinoe County’s remarkable past but also as a reminder that unity, reconciliation, and sustained development are essential to securing a better future for generations to come.
