Ziguinchor, Senegal – A young Senegalese poet is gaining recognition for his work celebrating Pular language and culture, while together advocating for improved infrastructure in his home region. Oumar Al Foutiyou Gaye, writing as gaye El Prési, has published two collections of poetry and performs slam poetry in Pular, a language facing challenges in contemporary Senegal [[1]]. His work not only amplifies the voices of his community but also directly addresses issues of access and equity for residents of the remote Dandé Mayo area.
Ziguinchor, Senegal – A student at the University Assane Seck in Ziguinchor is gaining recognition for his poetry and advocacy for the Pular language and culture. Oumar Al Foutiyou Gaye, who publishes under the name Gaye El Prési, has released two collections of poems and performs as a slam poet, using his work to amplify the voices of his community.
Gaye’s literary journey began in his childhood in Woudourou, a village in the Dandé Mayo area of the Matam commune. He recalls a strong desire for books, often requesting them from older siblings returning from university. “I’ve always loved to read and write. When my older brothers came home from university, all I asked for were books. It’s a real obsession with me,” he said.
Despite initially pursuing a science track in secondary school, Gaye ultimately returned to his passion for the humanities. He explained his early interest in science stemmed from a belief that “good scientists are also good writers,” but he soon realized that literature was his true calling. He completed his secondary education in 2019 and enrolled at the University Assane Seck, majoring in Modern Letters.
The transition to university life presented challenges, as Gaye was the only student from Woudourou at the school initially. “At the time, I was the only one from Woudourou in Ziguinchor. I felt alone,” he said. However, he quickly found a community of fellow literature enthusiasts, easing his integration.
From Reading to Writing
Gaye El Prési credits his love of writing to his extensive reading. “When you read, you want to practice. The books I read pushed me to get an idea of writing,” he explained. He also emphasized the influence of his former French teacher, M. Younouss Sall, who encouraged him to “multiply your efforts” and immerse himself in literary events and libraries.
He began writing his first book during his first year of high school, a project that evolved over five years. In March 2022, Gaye published his first collection of poems, “Un séjour à la bibliothèque” (A Stay at the Library), marking his debut as an author. The work explores his roots and culture, with early pages focusing on his identity, his connection to the Fouta region, and Peul culture.
The collection also pays tribute to prominent Senegalese religious figures, including Cheikh Oumar Foutiyou Tall, Mame Maodo Malick, Baye Niass, and Serigne Touba. Gaye also incorporated personal reflections into his poetry, describing himself as a poet who “loves to dream, travel, and discover new horizons.”
Just two years later, he released a second collection, “Étoile éternelle” (Eternal Star), a tribute to African women, whom he describes as “an eternal star that never dies.” He believes women are central to life, responsible for nurturing, protecting, and inspiring, and deserving of recognition for their contributions.
Ousmane Gaye, his brother, described him as “above all, a unconditional lover of words. Literature and poetry have always been more than a passion for him: they are a refuge, a strength, a path of life.” A journalist at the Senegalese Press Agency (APS) noted that Oumar lives to read, write, and share his work.
Gaye El Prési also performs as a slam poet, bringing a unique element to the art form by performing in the Pular language. While acknowledging the challenges, he is determined to promote his native tongue through his performances. He has two pieces to his name: “Guidelam Jontadam” and “Yonta hande.” His performances have gained him a following throughout the Matam region.
Beyond his artistic pursuits, Gaye is an advocate for cultural development in the region. He points to a lack of financial and logistical support for local artists and a shortage of cultural infrastructure, with the regional cultural center being the only such facility in the entire Matam region. He calls for the construction of youth centers in more remote areas.
Gaye is also a vocal advocate for the people of the Dandé Mayo, addressing issues that affect their community. He recently sent an open letter to President Bassirou Diomaye Faye requesting the paving of the road to the Dandé Mayo, which becomes impassable during the rainy season, isolating the region.
“During the flood season, the people of the valley are cut off from the rest of the country due to the lack of passable roads to reach the national highway,” he said. The poet’s work highlights the intersection of art and activism, using his platform to address both cultural preservation and pressing social needs.
