Emerging Talent: Gambian Author Ebrima Dembajang Unveils Debut Novel
By Mariama Dem
In a literary breakthrough, 24-year-old Ebrima Dembajang, a driven writer, is set to launch his maiden book titled “The Widow Next Door.” This much-anticipated work not only showcases Ebrima’s exceptional talent but also underlines his commitment to shedding light on pressing societal issues.
Ebrima’s journey towards becoming an author has been fueled by determination, pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Development Studies at the University of The Gambia. His commitment to excellence began at Scanaid Lower Basic School and persisted through Scanaid Upper and Senior Secondary School, where he not only excelled academically but also emerged as a powerful youth leader, inspiring and empowering his fellow young individuals.
“My passion for writing initially took root during my senior school years and it truly flourished when I entered university,” he said.
The foundation of his burgeoning talent was laid during senior school years when he started writing poems and sought guidance from his English teacher. As Ebrima’s horizons expanded, he wrote thought-provoking articles on various topics, contributing to a total of 17 published pieces on his blog, connecting with a diverse audience and raising awareness about critical social issues and current affairs.
Now, Ebrima is set to launch his debut book, “The Widow Next Door.” The novel serves as his literary masterpiece, casting a spotlight on the struggles faced by widows in Gambian society and the perils of irregular migration. Through the gripping tale of Amina, a courageous widow in the village of Jarra Jiffin, the book explores deep themes of love, loss, societal expectations, and the unbreakable human spirit.
Ebrima skillfully weaves a narrative that not only captivates readers but also aims to create awareness surrounding gender-based violence against women and the complex challenges arising from irregular migration.
As a young author, Ebrima recognises the lack of assistance available for writers and authors in The Gambia. He calls upon individuals and organisations to rally behind the cause of supporting writers in addressing pertinent societal problems through the medium of art.
“I’m urging everybody to acknowledge the immense value that authors bring to society and to provide the necessary backing for our creative endeavors to flourish.”