President Adama Barrow has mourned the death of Gambian kora star Tatadinding Jobarteh. 

Tatadinding died on Saturday at the Brikama Health Centre aged 56.

The singer whose real name was Ebrima Jobarteh had been suffering from an unknown illness which almost paralysed him for years. 

President Barrow led the tribute as hundreds of Gambians paid their respect to the late Kora star for his efforts in the cultural development of the country.

“I received news of the demise of a great Kora artist, Tatadinding Jobarteh who passed away on 21st August, with sadness. 

“I extend my condolences to the Jobarteh and by extension to the Jali families for the loss. He left a legacy in the world of traditional kora entertainment. 

“May Allah shower his mercy on him and grant him eternal peace,” President Barrow said.

Meanwhile, Dr Ismaila Ceesay, leader of Citizens’ Alliance also in his tribute message, said: “Today, Gambia and Africa lost a music icon. Citizens’ Alliance and myself join the entire country in mourning the death of my brother and friend, Tata DingDing Jobarteh.

“Few Kora players has used the instrument to touch the hearts of many. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and our thoughts and prayers are with his family and all his fans.”

Reporting by Adama Makasuba