EULOGY TO AN ENTERTAINER, EDUCATOR, AND COMMUNITY SERVANT-TAKATITI/TAKA

It was a typical Saturday noon, 12^th April 2025, I was sipping coffee and scrolling through my Facebook newsfeed when I came across an obituary announcement from the Janjangbureh Kankurang Festival Committee page. They were paying tribute to one of their own, Lamin Keita, affectionately known as Takatiti or simply Taka. His photo accompanied the post.

I froze.

I placed my mug down and read the post again and again repeatedly, unable to believe what I was seeing. In skepticism, I opened WhatsApp to contact a friend in Janjangbureh for confirmation. But before I could, I saw my younger sister’s status, a photo of Taka, along with a sympathetic tribute message to his family.

At that moment, I knew the news was indeed tangible.

I sat there in silence for about five to ten long minutes, completely motionless. A wave of memories, thoughts, and emotions flooded my mind and heart. However, those reflections may be best saved for another time.

Takatiti the Entertainer

Born on 12^th December, 1965, Taka was a living symbol of Janjangbureh’s cultural heartbeat. From a young age, I remember seeing him with his signature three drums, and his presence is impossible to ignore. He was the town crier, the voice of the island. He needed no speaker; his voice was distinct, powerful, and commanding. His announcements still echo in my memory.

Children adored him. They would follow him through the streets in droves. His drumming, synchronized with his melodious voice, turned everyday announcements into performances. No wonder he became widely known as “the man with three drums.”

In 2018, his legacy was immortalized in Gambian rap when ST Brikama Boyo paid homage in his hit song Saluto, with the line: “Takatiti, saluto.”

Taka was a staple at social events- weddings, naming ceremonies, and christenings. Whether alone with his drums and a small speaker or accompanied by his team, often women from the Fula community in Wasulung, he brought joy and rhythm to every gathering. He was a regular fixture at initiation ceremonies, where his performances energized and united people from all walks of life.

His gift for storytelling was just as mesmerizing. Tourists and students alike will remember him at the historic old slave house by the river, narrating Janjangbureh’s history with pride and passion, always with his drums beside him. His deep knowledge and charisma made him not just an entertainer but a cultural ambassador, recognized far beyond the island.

As a core member of the Janjangbureh Kankurang Festival Committee, Taka was always center stage, performing before thousands. He was, simply put, a legend.

Takatiti the Educator

An alumnus of Armitage School, Taka was more than a performer; he was a brilliant mind and a gifted orator. Fluent and eloquent in English, he’d often be invited back to Armitage for educational programs, where he’d speak on diverse topics effortlessly and without notes. His intellect, charm, and natural ability to communicate left audiences in awe.

He was a regular presence at the school’s speech and prize-giving ceremonies, where he would share rich historical narratives about Armitage and The Gambia, captivating generations of students. He was, without doubt, a storyteller-scholar.

One unforgettable memory was in 2010, when he co-hosted a two-day UNESCO-funded workshop at Armitage Library, alongside the late Hon. Foday Jibani Manka, a historian and former National Assembly Member (NAM) of Janjangbureh. The workshop, focused on “the promotion and protection of African culture in the face of globalization,” was a testament to Taka’s intellectual range and dedication to preserving African identity.

He was a resource person of choice for local and international NGOs, always ready to educate, inspire, and uplift. His deep knowledge of social sciences and culture made him an invaluable community asset.

Takatiti the Community Servant

From my earliest days as a pupil at Methodist Lower Basic School, I can recall seeing Taka playing his role in every community initiative. Whether it was Setsetal or Tesito, the cleaning exercises on the island, Taka was there. Not just drumming, but sweeping, organizing, and encouraging others. He worked, he cared, and he led.

Though he once ventured into politics and contested local elections, never quite winning, he was always the people’s choice in spirit. He represented the island without a title, without a seat, but with unmatched service.

His dedication to Janjangbureh was unwavering. He gave his entire life to its people, culture, and development. And now, with his passing, the island has lost a pillar, a void that may never be filled.

Final Reflections

Since his death, I’ve found myself reflecting on the enormous legacy this man has left behind. I believe, with all my heart, that Janjangbureh must honor him. We must celebrate his life. We must remember him.

In that spirit, I urge the community, both at home and abroad, to come together and ensure that a street, a cultural center, or a landmark is named after Takatiti. Let future generations know of the man who beat his drums not just with rhythm, but with purpose, passion, and love for his people.

Adios, Taka.

Rest well, Legend of Janjangbureh.
You will never be forgotten.

Written by Abdul Wahab Saidy, a proud Islander.