By Kumba Leigh
Bubacarr Gaye, a final-year journalism student of the University of The Gambia, has authored his first book entitled ‘Toro Ba: The Land of Myth and Culture’. The book is about the culture and tradition of the village of Toro Ba. The author observed that the once culturally-rich community has been rapidly losing its traditional and cultural creed, and that the book is a means of preserving it.
It presents culture-related stories of the village, including its history and folklore. “Amidst global technological advancement and pervasive western influences compromising our traditions, it is crucial to preserve our culture; allowing it to fade would leave one’s identity in limbo. The book is conceived as a means to advocate, and enlighten people about the culture,” he said.
The young author said the inspiration to write the book came when he was in his third year, in a magazine feature writing class, where he was given a 900-wordcount writing assignment.
He believes Toro Ba village’s picturesque natural beauty with dense forest of baobab trees, and some other natural resources have potential for economic growth and employment creation for the youth.
On challenges, Gaye said he had difficulties in accessing facilities and assistance such as internet, editing cost and finance but that the passion for literature keeps the spirit alive in him.
Like most young people who grow with the habit of writing, Bubacarr said his passion for literature was driven from the time of Covid-19 2018-2019, when he wrote pieces of poems, and short stories. He said he also started writing a book entitled ‘Job Hunter’.
“I love reading and writing. I also want to become one of the best authors in history. However, I equally care about our culture and youth employment; guarding it with proper management will help preserve our culture and contribute to national development, and economic growth,” he stated.
He thanked the National Centre for Arts and Culture for their support to throughout his book production. “I am also indebted to the editors, proof-readers, for their support,” he added.
Toro Ba: The Land of Myth and Culture aims to highlight and safeguard cultural riches for the benefit of present and future generations. Many of its cultural practices extend beyond the village to neighbouring communities. Located in the heart of Lower Baddibu District, North Bank Region, Torro Ba has nurtured these practices for decades.
The 22-page book contains scenes of traditional and historical practices, vis-a-vis contemporary practices, cultural preservation, circumcision rites, traditional marriage, and night of extracting honey, protection of the farmlands, and hunting.
