There existed tensions between the different groups and the Firdu Fulbe, Alpha Molo's core base of support, who settled mostly in Tumana and Jimara, two of Kaabu's former constituent kingdoms in the Gambia river valley.
[4] Upon his father’s death in 1881, Mussa accepted the nominal rule of his uncle Bakary Demba, as was the custom of the time, but maintained both political and military control over a large area of what is now Senegalese region of Kolda.
[6] He consolidated his rule by eliminating potential challengers within his family with support from the French[4] He built a much more centralized governmental apparatus than his father, although weak transportation and communication networks hampered effective control.
[7] Musa's harsh and arbitrary rule caused large-scale emigration by Fula and as well as minority ethnicities, often seeking the protection of European trading posts.
[4] They supported him in campaigns north to the Gambia river, defeating and killing the Mandinka warlord Fode Kaba in 1901,[5] and conquering Niani (at the expense of Mahmadu Lamine) and Kantora.
From the Gambia, Musa Balde could not control Fuladu by strength of arms, and so relied on marriage alliances with local notables, Fula and Mandinka alike.