Testimonials
Reflections from Organisations
ActionAid International The Gambia state
"He was a voice for the voiceless, a rhythm of resistance, and a heartbeat of change.
"His voice may have gone silent, but the echoes of his songs will live on—
in every empowered girl, every bold woman leader,
and every young person inspired by his words."
"Through his powerful and captivating traditional songs, Taka Titi transformed complex social issues into accessible, thought-provoking messages. His melodies carried wisdom, ignited dialogue, and empowered countless youth and women across communities. Whether he was singing under a baobab tree or performing on a community stage, his messages always resonated—deeply and powerfully.
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During his years of engagement with ActionAid, Taka Titi stood tall as a cultural pillar in our advocacy work. His unwavering commitment to youth development, women's rights, and social justice was more than commendable—it was inspirational. Most recently, he was at the forefront of our campaign on "women's inclusion in decision-making structures and key leadership positions", a project proudly funded by UNFPA The Gambia. His contributions ensured that these messages reached even the most remote corners of our communities, sparking change and challenging norms.
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Taka Titi was more than a partner—he was family.
He embodied the very principles that ActionAid stands for:
"social justice, gender equality, and empowerment of the marginalized".
His passion for women’s empowerment was unmatched, his dedication unwavering, and his impact unforgettable.
As we mourn his loss, we also celebrate a life of purpose, courage, and commitment.
Rest in power, Mr Lamin . You have left footprints in the sands of change, and your legacy will forever guide our journey toward justice.
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including a link where he taught participants how to compose songs with key advocacy messages.
'This approach aims to empower traditional communicators to advocate for women's support through music'
The National Centre for Arts and Culture (NCAC)
Hassoum Ceesay
noted their longstanding working relationship since 1992.
"Taka was a grassroots cultural animator with great talent and accessibility. He was also a very dependable partner for the National Centre for Arts and Culture,”
“consummate, accessible, and highly intelligent cultural animator, performer, and communicator.”​​
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“Taka Titi used the essence of Gambian culture and performance to communicate impactful messages to the public. He was one of the most iconic performers from McCarthy Island, known for his role in national campaigns across various sectors.”
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“Taka Titi was indeed a great icon of Gambian culture and performance. His legacy will live on.”
From a variety of sources
Reflections from Individuals
Honourable Omar Jammeh, National Assembly Member for Janjanbureh, described Taka Titi as
"an asset, ambassador, and legend in the promotion of traditional culture
in Janjanbureh and The Gambia.
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“His demise is devastating and shocking, but his spirit will forever remain with us. Taka served former Chief A. Bah Jam Jawo and current Chief Bakery Jam Jawo as a traditional communicator, sharing information across the island while also entertaining the community during social events.
He participated in all community functions and had the unique skill of keeping everyone smiling. I have lost a great friend and pray that Allah grants him Jannah Firdawse."
"Taka Titi's passing marks the end of an era in Gambian oral history and traditional education.
His legacy , however, lives on in the countless minds he educated, inspired and entertained
with his unique blend of knowledge and cultural expression."
Ebrima KB Sonko of Gambian.com
"The Gambia has today lost on of its most treasured cultural figures"
"The Drumming Legend of Gambia"
"
It’s with a heavy heart I share the news of the passing of one of Gambia’s finest drummers and cultural icons,
Taka Titi. A master of rhythm, Taka Titi dedicated his life to drumming, storytelling, and uplifting Gambian traditions through music.
For those who don’t know, Taka Titi wasn’t just a drummer — he was a living heartbeat of Gambian culture. His hands could speak to the soul, blending the deep roots of sabar and djembe rhythms with passion and pure energy. He performed across Gambia and the world, spreading the beauty of African percussion and inspiring both young and old.
His legacy will live on in the rhythms of the streets, the celebrations, and the hearts of everyone who ever heard his drum speak.
Rest well, legend. You’ll never be forgotten.
"
nagambianmusico1
"His death is like a spanner lost to Janjanbureh"
Yunus Saliu
“Repeater tourists, especially his fans, will no doubt miss his cultural entertainment whenever they visit the historic island of Janjanbureh,”
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“Taka Titi was always seen by the riverside and the Freedom Tree, displaying his set of three drums to entertain tourists.”
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“His death is like a spanner lost to Janjanbureh, a community championing domestic tourism in Destination Gambia,”
"