Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – It is with profound sorrow and heavy hearts that we mourn the passing of our beloved colleague, mentor, and friend, Alhaji Saihou Bah, who departed this world early this morning.
Soft-spoken, kind-hearted, and deeply principled, Saihou was a man of immense knowledge whose influence reached far beyond any single space. He touched lives in classrooms, newsrooms, and communities, leaving behind an enduring legacy of learning, integrity, and service.
Throughout his life, he worked tirelessly to ensure that Gambian literature and intellectual thought were not only preserved but celebrated and passed on to future generations.
A bilingual and Francophone to the core, Alhaji Saihou Bah served with distinction as the first Editor-in-Chief of the French page of The Daily Observer (Observer Plus), as well as the French magazine La Lune.
He was also Principal of Sheikh Mass Kah Senior and Junior Secondary Schools and a Lecturer at the Alliance Franco-Gambienne. In every role he assumed, he brought excellence, humility, and an unwavering commitment to nurturing young minds.
Saihou was more than a professional colleague; he was a mentor and a trusted friend to many. His passion for journalism and writing was unmatched, and he devoted his life to educating and inspiring young journalists across The Gambia.
At Sheikh Mass Kah, he founded and nurtured one of the most vibrant and impactful school press clubs in the country—an enduring testament to his belief in the power of youth, words, and ideas.
A devout and fervent Muslim, Saihou was a man of great intelligence and a generous spirit. Working alongside him in the newsroom was both inspiring and grounding.
He instilled confidence, professionalism, and a strong work ethic in those around him, while constantly reminding young journalists to remain true to their values and never compromise on integrity. His guidance was firm yet gentle, rooted in example rather than instruction alone.
His final Facebook post, shared on December 1, 2025, now stands as a deeply moving farewell. In it, Saihou hosted a recitation of the Holy Quran, offering prayers not only for those present but for all who were in need of healing and guidance across the world.
Those prayers endure today as his last gift to posterity—a legacy of faith, compassion, and hope that reflects the very essence of who he was.
We are heartbroken by this immense loss. Yet, even in our grief, we remain profoundly grateful for the lessons he taught, the standards he set, and the love he shared so freely.
Alhaji Saihou Bah leaves behind a legacy that will continue to live on in the countless lives he shaped and the values he so faithfully upheld.
May Allah grant him Jannatul Firdaus and grant strength and comfort to his family, friends, colleagues, and all who were touched by his remarkable life.
