By Sainabou Sambou
Harry Bah, literature enthusiast and advocate of social change, is set to launch her first solo book, entitled, ‘Whispers from a Wounded Land: The Voice of Mother Africa’. She had co-authored two anthologies, “Flow of the Ink” and “Storms Don’t Last Forever,” and is committed to using storytelling to empower others and inspire change. Hailed from Fass Njagga Choi, in The Gambia, the young writer’s early curiosity and critical thinking led her to write and inspire others. After her education at Nusrat Senior Secondary School and studying Development at the University of The Gambia, she became active in various initiatives. Ms. Bah has held significant roles, including Administrative Head of the Gambia Torch, Programme Officer for Writers’ Space Africa Gambia chapter and Finance Director for the Writers’ Clinic Association, and a freelance writer for the Gambia Daily and Gambia Newsroom Torch.
In an exclusive interview with the Gambia Daily, the young writer stated that she is motivated to write to inspire people via words and ideas. She said being gifted with writing skills makes her feel it is a duty to use the pen to communicate to the wider world through simple and coded languages. She said she has been writing since she was in junior school. She revealed that her book title comes as a reflection of the themes and styles in the book. “In a world where voices are stifled and narratives often skewed, “Whispers from a Wounded Land” emerges as a heartfelt tapestry woven from the intricate threads of experiences, struggles, and aspirations of mothers, daughters, and generations of Africans. This anthology sheds light on the silent battles fought within the beautiful yet tumultuous heart of Africa—its mothers, who are both nurturers and warriors, embodying the dual essence of strength and vulnerability,” Ms Bah explained.
She further explained that within the pages of her book, people will encounter an African mother, powerful yet muted; a land rich with potential yet shackled by its own history. And each poem reflects a vivid facet of reality, confronting the numerous challenges faced by individuals and communities, while simultaneously celebrating resilience, hope, and the unyielding spirit that defines our existence. Citing her challenges the young author mentioned finance as the reason for delay of her publication. Ms. Bah has called on the aspiring writers not to give up while acknowledging that writing could be challenging, particularly in The Gambia. Ms Bah said she is yet to set a date for the book launch because she is still looking for more funds. She however expressed hope and strong conviction that the book will be launched before the end of this year.
