Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – The Writers Association of The Gambia (WAG) on Saturday, September 26, honored renowned Gambian poet and literary critic Juka Fatou Jabang as part of Gambia Literature Day 2026.
Held under the theme “Our stories, our heritage, our future,” the event brought together writers, poets, educationists, literary enthusiasts, family members, friends, and colleagues of Jabang, who serves as WAG Vice President and is popularly known as “Aunty Juka.”
The celebration focused on Jabang’s contribution to Gambian literature, particularly her poetry, with discussions examining the themes, ideas, and writing styles reflected in her work.
Speaking at the event, WAG President Dr. Cherno Barry said the association had deliberately chosen to honor writers while they are still alive, rather than waiting until after their death.
“Too often in Africa, we wait until our writers have passed on before we speak their names with the respect they deserve,” Dr. Barry said.
He said WAG wanted writers to hear and feel the appreciation for their contributions, while also showing young people that a life dedicated to literature is valued by society.
Dr. Barry said the event had three main objectives: to celebrate a writer, showcase a book, and reflect on the role of literature in society, particularly in schools.
He described Jabang as “a poet of courage,” noting that her works, including The Phoenix, explore the experiences of Gambian women and address issues that can generate debate.
Dr. Barry also said WAG was working to improve publishing standards, promote Gambian books in schools, and establish an archive to preserve the country’s literary heritage.
Jabang reflects on her literary journey.
In her response, Jabang thanked Allah and WAG for the recognition, saying she never imagined that her early interest in writing would eventually lead to such an honor.
She identified sacrifice and selflessness as two principles that have guided her work.
Jabang traced her interest in literature to her years at St Joseph’s School, where she was introduced to English folktales and other literary works.
Her interest deepened while studying at Fourah Bay College in the 1970s, where she said literature became a way of examining society, culture, history, and human experiences.
According to Jabang, writers do more than put words on paper. They observe, question, and reflect on society while giving expression to experiences that may otherwise remain unheard, including issues affecting women.
She also recalled contributing short stories and poems to student magazines and Ndaanan magazine in the early 1970s. Some of those works have since been recovered and republished.
Family pays tribute.
Members of Jabang’s family, friends, and colleagues also paid tribute to her, describing her as a mentor and role model.
Her daughter, Kodou L. Jabang, speaking on behalf of the family, said her mother had given her children her time, resources, love, and support while continuing to pursue her own dreams and literary work.
She said Jabang had demonstrated that motherhood should not require a woman to give up her identity, ambitions, or voice.
The celebration concluded with readings of Jabang’s poems and calls for greater support for young writers and the development of a stronger literary culture in The Gambia.
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