In Loving Memory of Fatou Samba Joof
INNA LILLAHI WA INNA ILLAIHI RAQUON
By Alkali M Dibba, Former Government and History Teacher of Gambia Senior Secondary School, and his students
Fatou’s demise brought a deep sense of loss, sorrow, and reflection in my heart, which led me to write this tribute in memory of Fatou Samba (FSJ). The sudden passing of one of my beloved students came as a terrible shock, one that is hard to process or put into words. I have been pondering it for three weeks now. How are the mighty fallen, and how quickly the brightest lights are dimmed? What lessons must we learn from the departure of such beautiful souls of our loved ones, friends, and neighbors?
Fatou was not just my former student at Gambia Senior Secondary School between 2009 and 2011, where I had the honor of teaching her History and Government. She was a force of nature—brilliant, inquisitive, and remarkably dedicated. During my time at Gambia High, she stood out for her sharp intellect and insatiable curiosity. Her questions in class were never ordinary; they were thoughtful, probing, and often provoked me, her teacher, to think deeper. Fatou Samba was always eager to learn and consistently reached out to her teachers whenever she encountered a topic she did not understand. Owing to her eagerness to fully grasp every lesson taught, she earned the admiration and respect of all her teachers during her time at Gambia High School. She held firm beliefs in justice, good governance, accountability, and transparency—values she carried with her far beyond the classroom.
At the beginning of her journalism career, F Samba, as we fondly called her, would come to me for editing her articles before submitting them to the editors where she was working as a freelance journalist at the Gambia Daily, if my memory serves me. And I would be the first to read the article as well. I saw a passion and love for journalism in her. Fatou was more than a student; she became a mentee, a colleague in thought, and a dear friend. Even after graduation, she maintained a close and respectful relationship with me, filled with warmth and mutual admiration. Fast forward to 2015/2016, my class later formed a WhatsApp group, and they ensured I was added, not just as a symbolic gesture. Still, so I could continue mentoring, advising, and supporting them on their academic and social journeys. So when the news of the death broke out, the forum got frozen with sympathy and condolence messages.
I could hold my tears after one of her close friends shared a memory picture of her in the group. I could see those cheerful and honest smiles on Fatou’s face, and then I started to doubt myself. It took me this far to process and accept the fact that you are physically gone from this temporal world. Please, keep those beautiful smiles down on us from Heaven, In Shaa Allah.
Fatou blossomed into a renowned journalist, wielding her pen as a powerful tool against injustice and inequality. Her gift for writing was profound, versatile, fearless, and deeply impactful. Her investigative journalism was second to none, always aimed at informing, enlightening, and empowering the public. As the Director of Gambia Talent Television (GTTV), she was not only a consummate professional but also a dynamic team leader and organizer. She inspired her team and those around her with dignity, humility, and vision. Last December 25th, 2024, when you got me off guard at the Airport for a brief interview during your must-watch “Semester Corner” Show, Fatou, this wasn’t the promise. But, Ya Allah, decides otherwise, and to Him we submit our faith during this difficult time.
She was also a humanitarian at heart. She championed the cause of the vulnerable and underprivileged in Gambian society, using her platform and resources to uplift others. Her presence at any event brought life—her infectious laughter, warmth, and kindness. She had a gift for turning even the heaviest moments into ones of comfort and hope.
To her beloved husband, Pa Ousman Joof, you are not alone in your grief and loss. We share in your sorrow and honour the incredible woman your wife. Fatou was a pillar of strength, a beacon of hope, and a model of integrity. May her memory be a source of comfort, and may Allah grant her the highest place in Jannatul Firdaus.
Fatou Samba was a woman of substance—a rare gem whose presence enriched everyone she met. She opened her arms wide in love and gave of herself generously. Her passing is a heartbreaking loss for all who knew her, but her spirit will continue to live on in the lives she touched, the truths she spoke, and the light she spread.
The passing of our dear friend Fatou Sambo is a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the bonds we share. Over sixteen years ago, we began a journey as her teacher, classmates, and those shared moments have become the foundation of our lifelong connection. Now more than ever, we must strengthen our unity, love, and support one another, and stand in genuine solidarity in life, not in death. Time is not on our side, and what we build today as a group will outlive us in memory and significance. Let us drop suspicion and pick up compassion. Let us be present for one another—not only in mourning but also in celebration, in struggle, and joy. We owe it to Fatou, to ourselves, and to the legacy of the Gambia High 2011 Set to live in active brotherhood. May this loss awaken us to more profound love and lasting connection.
Indeed, a legend is gone, an icon has fallen, and a gem is truly irreplaceable. And if you read this tribute this far, I pray that you forgive her unconditionally.
Adieu, Fatou Samba—
A jewel of inestimable value,
A treasure in the savanna,
A golden light from the ‘Smiling Coast of Africa’,
An oasis of strength, compassion, and truth.
You will never be forgotten.
ADIEU, ADIEU, ADIEU — Alkali M. Dibba
Tribute by her former badgemate, Dawda Bah:
It is with a heavy heart that I write this tribute in memory of our beloved sister and friend, Fatou Samba. Words feel small in moments like this, but I want to honor the incredible person she was.
Fatou was one of the brightest stars of our generation. In school, she exuded a rare brilliance. Her creativity and passion for writing were unmatched—she didn’t just write stories, she wrote truth, she wrote hope.
I remember our high school days vividly—I was in 12th grade and she was in 12th grade. Our classrooms were neighbors, and so we often crossed paths with each other. Every encounter with Fatou was marked by a radiant smile, one that could brighten even the darkest day. She called me “Special Brother,” and I’ll never forget the affection and sincerity behind those words. Once, after graduation, I saw her around West Field and teased her, “Fatou Samba, yow bai ngama deh?” She laughed and said, “No, I can’t leave my special brother—you’ve been there from the beginning.” “Anda bu yaaga bilah.” That was who she was—genuine, loving, and loyal.
She adored her father with all her heart. Their bond was unbreakable, filled with laughter and mutual respect. You could see the pride and admiration in her eyes whenever she spoke about him. She was a daughter full of honor, compassion, and deep familial love.
Fatou lived with grace, humility, and boundless empathy. She made time for others, listened with her heart, and never let her brilliance overshadow her kindness.
Her legacy is one of impact, service, and love. The world has lost a beautiful soul far too soon, but heaven has surely gained an angel. Fatou, your memory will forever remain etched in our hearts. May your gentle soul rest in perfect peace. Excerpts from Dawda Bah
Tribute from former badgemate, Mariama Bojang
It is difficult to say whether it was an honor or a privilege to have spent three years alongside you at Gambia Senior Secondary School. Our classrooms were adjacent, and we shared many of the same subjects. I vividly recall your warm smile and the sound of your voice echoing through the hallways. You were always determined, intellectually curious, and, above all, respectful. In all our time together, I never once witnessed you display anger or speak rudely to any of your classmates or schoolmates.
Fatou Samba took pride in who she was, and it comes as no surprise that so many speak so highly of her. Her sudden passing has touched people far beyond our borders, and she is being mourned across the world. Fatou was young, intelligent, and full of promise. Yet, as the saying goes, sometimes the kindest souls leave us too soon. The world truly needs more individuals like her.
I extend my deepest condolences to her husband, family, and friends during this difficult time. May she rest in eternal peace. Farewell, dear classmate—you will be sincerely missed until we meet again. — Mariama Bojang, Her Class Prefect, New York.
Tribute by former classmate, Talib M Njie
It is with the most profound sadness that we write this tribute in memory of our beloved sister, friend, and colleague. In the heart of Banjul, (Perseverant Street) where a gallant and emphatic lady was born. She started her primary education at St. Theresa’s Primary School, followed by upper basic education, and then senior secondary education at Gambia High School. Fatou Samba was among the brilliant ladies with ambition and a passion for her quest. She was my classmate from 10th grade to 12th grade. A lady who was willing to learn from colleagues and share ideas openly, always with a smile. It is always difficult to know if Fatou Samba is angry or not, as she always gives a smiling face and never holds back anything from her.
Family Bond. She was my cousin sister, always fond of calling me “Bloodline Brother”, a name that touched my heart and inspired me throughout our senior high school journey. Loved by many, she was a vocalist in the poetry scheme at Gambia High School. Today, her passion for journalism has been a driving force since high school, and it was a pleasure to see her excel in it. Fatou Samba was a very kindhearted lady, loving and caring to everyone. We lost a great soul, one who had ambitious plans for upcoming projects that would inspire young people to pursue journalism as a career. Fatou, your memory and legacy will continue to live on in our hearts forever. I pray to Almighty Allah to forgive you and grant you Jannatul Firdaaws, ameen.
With Love and Affection,
Talib M Njie.
