By: Mama Fatima Singhateh
I make these remarks on behalf of my siblings Ebrima Singhateh, Binta Singhateh, Hatib Singhateh, Abdoulie Singhateh, Sally Singhateh, Abubakar Singhateh, Safia Singhateh, and Bafoday Singhateh.
We gather here today, with heavy hearts, to bid farewell to a remarkable man, a national hero, and an extraordinary figure in our lives— our father, Alhaji Kalilou Foday-Ba Singhateh, widely known to many as Ba Kalilou.
Today, as we reflect on his life and mourn his passing, we remember a legacy that will never fade, a life that will forever inspire us, and a spirit that will remain with us always. BaKalilou, was more than just a politician, leader, and professional; He was a father. The immense devotion, love and passion that he had for people and support he has given to family, friends and all those who were fortunate to cross his path are ineffable. He was a gentleman and an honourable man; a true man of principles and a true Muslim.
He had a great sense of humour, and an infectious laughter. He was very charismatic, intelligent, driven. I’m sure many of you will agree with me when I say he was an incredibly handsome man – a tall, dark, proud mandingo with diastema what we call sakari Yallah– and gorgeous dimples- yes, he was a beautiful person both inside and outside.
He came from humble beginnings but educated himself beyond expectations and reached an enviable social and political status. He was born in Foni Sintet but was raised in Badibou Saaba – the only place he ever called home, regardless of whatever part of the world he lived in.
His parents passed away at a young age, he then moved to live with his uncle in Banjul and had to fend for himself and his siblings. It was either by luck or design that he chose the path to attend Armitage High School, which – I believe – was the catalyst for his many triumphs.
He worked for a few years as a civil servant. Compelled by unwavering commitment to service and to advance his country and people, he was among those who created the People’s Progressive Party in 1959 where he rose to a senior and prominent role and recognised as a leading politician.
He was the last surviving member of the 1961 constitutional conference in Lancaster House in London, and as a founding member of the political generation that negotiated the independence of The Gambia, Ba Kalilou stood shoulder to shoulder with visionaries like the late Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara, the late Uncle Sheriff Saikouba Ceesay, and Uncle M.C. Cham. He was part of the Gambian delegation that travelled to Marlborough House in London in 1964, to lay the groundwork for our nation’s independence. His role in those constitutional talks was pivotal, and today, we honor him as one of the unsung heroes who helped shape the future of our beloved Gambia. He was a witness to history, and through his actions, he contributed to the creation of a sovereign, independent Gambia, where future generations could live in freedom and self-determination.
Our father carried this unfathomable dedication and momentum with great resolve while serving his nation as the first MP of Badibou which was one constituency at the time, and later in several ministerial positions including Minister of Works and Communication, Minister of Education and Minister of Health and Social Welfare. During these years, he proved himself to be a strong leader and visionary.
Ba Kalilou’s public service extended far beyond the national level. He went on to serve with distinction at UNESCO in Paris and later in Nairobi, where he worked tirelessly for over two decades, bringing the same level of dedication and professionalism that he demonstrated in his political career. In all that he did, BaKalilou represented the very best of Gambia—embodying human decency, humility, and a rare blend of strength and kindness.
Our father lived a full and good life. He has been all over the world, seen a lot and rubbed shoulders with Royalty and Heads of States. But, at the end of the day, what drove him the most was his family and his family extended beyond his bloodline. He was a devoted husband, a loving father, a proud grandfather and a doting great grandfather, whose personal life mirrored the values he held in public service.
To those who were blessed to know him personally, BaKalilou was more than a public figure. He was a friend, a mentor, and a true patriarch. His life was not just one of political achievement; it was also one of personal integrity, kindness, and abundant generosity. He had a unique way of making everyone feel valued, heard, and respected. His words were always measured, thoughtful, and purposeful, and his presence was one that brought calm, clarity, and inspiration.
I am sure that my brothers and sisters feel as I do when I say that I am proud to have had him as my father. He has left gigantic boots for us to fill. Our father lived an honourable life and had a dignified death, and, in his passing, he has left behind a legacy that will endure through the generations.
BaKalilou, though you are no longer with us in the physical world, your legacy lives on. You were a trailblazer, a patriot, and a father to us all. We are forever grateful for the sacrifices you made and the example you set. May your family find comfort in the enduring power of your memory and your incredible life’s work.
You will forever remain a hero, a legend, and a source of inspiration to us all. As you have now transitioned to be with your Maker, we take comfort in the words from the Holy Quran Inna lilahi wa inna ilayhi rajioun -from Allah we came, and to Allah we shall return.
Thank you.
