By Momodou Jarju
Bassi Mbye has joined the growing number of budding Gambian writers inscribing their names in the country’s literary ecosystem as he braces up to launch his maiden book titled XHALYMBA ASKAN BI.
According to him, Xhalymba is a Wolof word which comes from Suratoul Qalam of the Quran and it means the red pen which the Majalis students use to teach their students at Majalis Quranic centers, while Askan Bi means society in Wolof too.
Asked to give a synopsis of his book, Mbye said: “The central message of the book is about hatred, love, humanity and inhumane acts that are happening in our society and possible solutions to overcome those challenges.”
The book is a collection of poems and stories. Mbye said he authored the book to create awareness to mankind on the importance of being kind to all human beings while encouraging a culture of tolerance and humanity globally.
Slated for 30th June, the launch event will be held at the Ebunjan Theatre. The author said the preparation of the book launch is on its finishing stage with support from Bundung Home Red Cross Link Elders Committee, Mamutfana Student Association, Penchum Mamutfana, Support our Own Gambia Foundation, IOU, Young Writers’ Association of The Gambia and Nnakala Poetry Academy.
About the author:
Bassi Mbye is a native of Mamut Fana, Niamina East District of the Central River Region. He went to school earlier in his village’s primary school. As a prospective student, he proceeded to Niamina Upper and Senior Secondary School where he emerged with attractive results to proceed to Jollof Tutors to pursue a programme in ACCA. He also works with the Ministry of Basic and secondary Education MOBSE as teaching staff. He is also working with Yonna Forex Bureau as the head of the marketing team and also engaging himself with the Frontline Technology and Consortium, heading the Business Development Department. Currently, Mr.Mbye is pursuing a degree programme in Business Administration at the International Open University. Meanwhile, his love for humanitarianism has made him serve as a first aid instructor of The Gambia Red Cross Society. Mbye was one of the finalists of the National Storytelling Competition organised by the Young Writers’ Association of The Gambia in 2022.
