Gambians have been paying their respects to the late Dr Lamin J Marenah who has died at the age of 90. 

Dr Marenah, who was one of The Gambia’s prominent post independence technocrats and leaders, passed away on Sunday at his Fajara residence. 

He was a former close aide to ex-President Sir Dawda Kairaba and the first Gambian believed to have bagged Ph.D. in agriculture. He served both United Nations and Gambia Government in various roles. 

“Oh, dear! A Towering BAOBAB tree of the Gambia has fallen! I am as heartbroken as most of my compatriots by the passing of the Patriarch of the Marenah family of Kudang-the ancestral home-to answer the call of his Maker,” a mouner said. 

Another one said: “My deepest condolences to his family and the entire Marenah family for the pain of their loss. The farmers of our beloved GAMBIA also stand in mourning of the passing of the most consequential agriculturalist of all times!”

“Our country has lost a Kingmaker and an Elder Statesman of hard-to-match humility, patriotism and selfless devotion to a lifetime service to country and people.

“Dr. Lamin Jonsaba Marenah has passed. The above-mentioned exceptional personal attributes will for ever be remembered as his lasting legacy,” another said

“He was a trailblazer, a visionary, and a true pioneer. He broke down barriers and opened up opportunities for generations of young Gambians to follow. 

“He dedicated his life to the service of his country, his continent, and the world, and his impact was felt in countless ways,” another mourner added.

“Dr. Marenah, you are among the pioneers  of our road to Independence and the establishment of our Jahally Pacharr rice fields which we are boasting of now. Rest in Jannatul Firdausi. Ameen.”

Reporting by Adama Makasuba