The Gambia’s renowned oral historian and national treasure, Alhaji Abdoulie ‘Efri’ Mbye has died.

Efri Mbye was known for his exceptional talent as a storyteller and oral historian.

The native of Banjul was also an artist and performer with The Gambia National Troupe Theatre.

His son, Goreh Mbye, a music promoter, announced the death on his Facebook page.

He wrote:

“Inna lillahi wa inna ilaihi raji’un
Kuli nafsin zahikatil maut

TODAY 11th June 2019 ALH ABDOULIE EFRI MBYE MY FATHER HAS ANSWERED TO THE CALL OF HIS CREATOR.

“Guys pls join me to pray for my father my role model my everything he was a father to all. BABA WALAHI you are gone but we are proud to have you as father.”

Gambians have taken to social media to express their condolences for the loss of a national treasure.

Alhagie Yorro Jallow, a journalist and commentator wrote: “This is a devastating loss: Saddened by his demise, Alhagie Abdoulaye Every Mbye, artist, traditional communicator, a brilliant oral historian, a gifted master storyteller, a doyen of the former The Gambia National Troupe Theater. A flame has been extinguished that lit up so many minds.

“He was at the peak of his creative talent. Our cultural world is poorer today. My Profound condolences to his family and to the many who followed his oratorical performances. Every Mbye will be remembered for his versatile traditional communication across all mediums. He also spoke passionately on causes dear to him.
His works will continue being popular in the years to come.”

Ebrima Jawo, an artist and social commentator, wrote:
“A giant tree has fallen, it shall no longer provide the shade it gave us, sanctuary to the birds and fruits to those it fed. Our Abdoulie Efri Mbye is gone. The son of the legendary Marie Samuel Njie, brother of the star Pa Touray is no more. Many are called but few are chosen! The world is a drama stage some act their parts quickly leaving their prints and great ones for that matter will always be indelible. The man gone has shared his history knowledge with anyone who cares to listen, Efri lived his life with a smile; he educated, entertained and informed us all.
He was such a great talent, both an actor, musician, historian and general entertainer. My condolences to his family. We will never forget your role in our national history Efri.”

Fatoumatta Rahman Coker, a journalist and socialite, wrote: “I woke up to a very sad news. A great historian is gone. A man that values people,omg a stong pillar to our society is gone, may heaven be your resting place. My condolences to Pa Goreh Sound’s Mbye and the entire family of the late Efri Mbye, may your soul rest in peace.”

Coach Pa Samba Jow, a political activist, wrote : “Condolences to the family of Abdoulie Efri Mbye who passed away this evening. May his soul rest in peace.”

The late Efri Mbaye will be laid to rest today after a funeral ceremony at Independence Drive mosque.

Editor’s note: We at Gambiana express our condolences to the family of Alhaji Abdoulie Efri Mbye. May his soul rest in eternal peace.