The late Imam Alhagi Mbye Chow
Alhaji Mbye Chow, the renowned artist, musician, and actor, has transitioned onto the glory of his Maker.
His passing marks the end of an era for an icon whose contributions have left an indelible mark on Gambia’s cultural landscape.
His legacy is one of love, resilience, and inspiration.
His music brought people together, his plays told compelling stories, and his community efforts fostered cultural pride and development.
As Gambians mourn his loss, they also celebrate the rich legacy that he is leaving behind — a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations.
Indeed, a big “bentenkeh” cotton tree has fallen as we have lost a most versatile and an extremely gifted artist who applied himself to the whole gamut of artistic enterprise and expression, bringing joy and laughter to so many, nay to all and sundry.
Yes, Alhaji Mbye Chow was a man of passion and boundless energy, and his life was a testament to what it means to be a real hero, nay a true Gambian, for that matter.
As such, his was a message of a diverse ethnic group and appreciating that we could be different, but we are at the same time all the same.
Above all, he was a consummate gentleman and a peaceful, thoughtful, humble, and courteous person.
We are eternally grateful to have been associated with such a titanic figure.
He would be fondly remembered by all of us for his towering accomplishments.
Indeed, he has left behind embolden footprints on Gambia’s cultural heritage through his dedication to preserving and promoting the rich tapestry of our traditions, nay of our way of life.
Though gone from among us, his legacy will live on in his timeless recordings and the countless lives he had touched and inspired.
Lastly, Alhaji Mbye Chow was more than an artist, he was a cultural ambassador and a beacon of pride for his beloved Gambia.
His performances thus transported his audiences to the roots of our Gambian traditions, embodying the spirit of our peoples and their connection to their own past.
May Alhaji Mbye Chow continue to rest in perfect harmony.
May he remain an eternal melody in the hearts of all of us who admired and loved him.
May the Almighty God overlook his shortcomings, if any and grant him a high place in Al Jannah, where he most rightfully and most deservedly belongs.
Adieu for now, Alhaji Ya Imam Mbye Chow and until we are together again.
Hassan Gibril
