Attention: This is an in-depth post dedicated to an individual with an impressive array of accomplishments and a remarkable legacy that continues to inspire.
A Tribute to Fatou Jaw Manneh: “Gambia’s Iron Lady” and the “Dame of the Flaming Pen” – A Visionary Pioneer of Gambian Female Pro-Democracy Activism and the Fierce Fight for The Gambia’s Third Liberation from Yahya Jammeh’s Authoritarian Regime.
by Alagi Yorro Jallow
Fatoumatta: Fatou Jaw Manneh stands as a visionary pioneer in Gambian female pro-democracy activism, leading the fierce fight for The Gambia’s Third Liberation from Yahya Jammeh’s authoritarian regime. Known for her unyielding spirit and eloquent pen, Fatou embodies the very essence of resilience and courage. With not a bone of tribalism in her, Fatou Jaw Manneh has consistently upheld the values of unity and equality. She has never been one to seek personal gain or notoriety on social media. Instead, her focus has always been on championing the rights and freedoms of her fellow Gambians. Her unwavering dedication and fearless activism have earned her the titles of “Gambia’s Iron Lady” and the “Dame of the Flaming Pen.” Fatou Jaw Manneh is a beacon of hope and an inspiration to all who strive for justice and democracy.
Throughout her remarkable political journey, Fatou Jaw Manneh has emerged as a powerful force for change, wholeheartedly dedicated to the people of The Gambia. With unwavering commitment, she has championed justice and the rule of law, masterfully intertwining her activism with advocacy journalism. Fatou Jaw Manneh is a bold embodiment of courage and resilience in the relentless battle against tyranny. This tribute further explores the profound impact of Wole Soyinka’s “The Man Died” in relation to Fatou Jaw Manneh’s inspiring activism and advocacy journalism.
Fatoumatta: Throughout history, we see remarkable individuals rise up with immense courage and resilience, especially during the darkest times. One such inspiring figure is Fatou Jaw Manneh, affectionately known as “Gambia’s Iron Lady” and the “Dame of the Flaming Pen.” Her steadfast dedication to justice and democracy has profoundly shaped our world. Echoing the wisdom of Wole Soyinka’s “The Man Died,” we recognize that those who remain passive in the face of injustice truly lose their vitality. In beautiful contrast, Fatou Jaw Manneh’s audacious activism against Yahya Jammeh’s dictatorship exemplifies the essence of true resistance. While others may claim the title of activist or express regret for their past roles, Fatou’s commitment stands out as she selflessly paid the ultimate price for her convictions, all without seeking recognition. She faced down tyranny head-on during Jammeh’s 22-year reign.
As I celebrate the legacy of heroes and legends like Fatou, I deeply appreciate their unwavering dedication and achievements that serve humanity. I hold sorrow for those who, driven by fear and self-interest, missed the chance to contribute to human advancement, leaving behind a lackluster impact. These individuals allowed injustice, oppression, and tyranny to prevail by choosing silence over action, remaining mere spectators rather than joining the fight for a brighter future. Fatou Jaw Manneh’s journey as a passionate pro-democracy activist and journalist began with her courageous reporting and advocacy against Yahya Jammeh’s oppressive regime in The Gambia. Her focus on uncovering corruption and human rights violations brought her both admiration and persecution.
Even in the face of tremendous personal challenges, including her arrest and a trial for sedition in 2007, her resolve for justice never wavered. Her courageous activism resonates strongly with the work of Professor Wole Soyinka, who used the power of literature to confront injustice and dictatorship. Both Soyinka and Jaw Manneh embody the true spirit of resistance, courageously risking their safety and freedom to speak truth to power. Their bravery serves as a profound reminder of the importance of standing up against tyranny, no matter the consequences. Together, they inspire us all to embrace the fight for justice and democracy, illuminating a path toward a brighter future!
Fatoumatta: Fatou Jaw Manneh’s legacy is a powerful testament to resilience and hope. As a journalist, she wielded her pen as a tool for inspiration and upliftment, highlighting the critical role of journalists and activists in driving social and political change. Her fearless journalism and unwavering activism continue to illuminate a path of hope and defiance, encouraging future generations to champion the cause of democracy and human rights. Fatou Jaw Manneh holds the distinction of being the first Gambian female pro-democracy activist and journalist to confront the tyrant Yahya Jammeh during his landmark visit to the United States in Virginia. There, she bravely protested against the military rule ravaging The Gambia. Moreover, she made history as the first female pro-democracy activist to pledge $2,000 to the US-based democracy organization Save The Gambia Democracy Fund, which played a pivotal role in uniting Gambian opposition groups in Atlanta, Georgia, to form a powerful coalition against the dictator.
In Professor Wole Soyinka’s profound work, “The Man Died: Prison Notes,” the title itself captures a deep significance. The phrase “the man died” symbolizes the death of the human spirit when individuals opt for silence and inaction in the face of tyranny and oppression. Soyinka’s memoir stands as a powerful testament to his resilience and bravery during his imprisonment, sharply criticizing those who remain passive and complicit in the face of injustice. This theme resonates powerfully when examining Fatou Jaw Manneh’s pivotal role in The Gambia’s struggle against Yahya Jammeh’s oppressive regime. Unlike many men who succumbed to fear and chose silence, Jaw Manneh exemplified true resistance. She risked her safety and freedom to unveil the truth and confront tyranny head-on. During Jammeh’s reign, countless men chose silence, paralyzed by the fear of persecution and retribution. Their inaction—akin to the “death” that Soyinka describes—allowed the dictatorship to tighten its grip on the nation.
In stark contrast, the bravery of women like Jaw Manneh illuminated a different path: one of courage, action, and unwavering resolve. Fatou Jaw Manneh’s fearless journalism and activism serve as a shining beacon of hope and defiance. By exposing corruption and human rights abuses, she earned the distinguished titles of “Gambia’s Iron Lady” and “Dame of the Flaming Pen.” Her arrest and trial for sedition in 2007, amidst overwhelming personal hardship, underscored her unyielding commitment to justice. Whereas many men “died” in the face of tyranny, Jaw Manneh’s spirit remained indomitable. Both Wole Soyinka and Fatou Jaw Manneh embody the very essence of resistance against oppressive regimes. Their narratives reveal the profound personal sacrifices made by those who dare to confront tyranny. Their bravery serves as a resounding reminder of the necessity to speak truth to power, no matter the consequences.
Both figures endured immense personal suffering in their relentless pursuit of justice, highlighting the emotional and physical toll of opposing oppression. They harnessed their respective platforms—literature for Soyinka and journalism for Jaw Manneh—to amplify the voices of the marginalized and expose the injustices inflicted by authoritarian regimes.
Fatou Jaw-Manneh is an inspiring Gambian journalist and activist who sought and received political asylum in the United States in 1994. Since then, she has firmly established herself as a prominent voice within the Gambian community in the U.S. and is the founder of the influential yet defunct news website, Maafanta.com. Her remarkable career includes being the first female reporter for the Gambian Daily Observer, earning her well-deserved accolades like “Gambia’s Iron Lady” and the “Dame of the Flaming Pen.” In 2007, during a visit to her beloved homeland, Jaw-Manneh faced a challenging moment in her life when she was arrested and tried for sedition. Her situation captured the attention and concern of international human rights organizations, leading to protests from respected groups such as the Committee to Protect Journalists and PEN in the UK and the U.S. At that time, she was navigating life as a young mother of two while her husband pursued education opportunities in America.
Fatoumatta: Fatou was not only a trailblazer as a female reporter but also transformed into an influential commentator over time. She recalls her experiences with a former editor who encouraged her to keep her sharp opinions separate from her reporting, emphasizing the importance of objectivity in journalism. Jaw-Manneh’s journey to the U.S. followed the political unrest that led to President Yahya Jammeh’s rise to power in Gambia. After her emigration, she became a regular contributor to AllGambian.net, an opposition website that offered a platform for free expression. In 2003, she penned a powerful article titled “Jammeh under the Microscope” for The Independent, a now-defunct paper. This impactful piece highlighted the pervasive issues of poverty and corruption within Gambia and unfortunately led to the arrest of the paper’s editor, Abdoulie Sey. The government ultimately shut down The Independent in 2006.
Through her work on Maafanta.com, Jaw-Manneh passionately argued that “no other sector in Gambian civil society has suffered as much as the private press under President Yahya Jammeh.” Initially presenting himself as a leader committed to a free and vibrant press, Jammeh shifted into a role that stifled journalistic freedom, leading many journalists into exile or forcing them to abandon their careers due to family pressures. Tragically, numerous newspapers and radio stations were closed indefinitely. In March 2007, Fatou made the courageous decision to return to Gambia to honor her recently deceased father. However, upon her arrival at Banjul Airport on March 28, she was unexpectedly arrested by agents of the National Intelligence Agency, facing sedition charges stemming partially from an interview she had given to the Independent newspaper in 2004. In that interview, she expressed her conviction that “Jammeh is tearing our beloved country into shreds,” highlighting the detrimental impact his leadership had on every aspect of Gambia’s progress. Reflecting on her arrest, Jaw-Manneh admitted she was “caught off guard” but not entirely surprised given the evident hostility towards journalists in the country. Joel Simon, the executive director of the Committee to Protect Journalists, voiced strong concerns about her “week-long detention without charge,” categorically stating it violated her fundamental rights under Gambian law. On April 4, 2007, Jaw-Manneh faced the Kanifing court, where she was charged with multiple counts, including “Intention to commit sedition” and “publication of seditious words.” These allegations carried severe penalties, including potential imprisonment.
Despite being released on bail of 25,000 dalasis (approximately $950), she was ordered to surrender her travel documents while awaiting trial. Jaw-Manneh’s lawyer argued that the court lacked jurisdiction, as the alleged offenses occurred while she was outside of Gambia, but this argument was regrettably dismissed. English PEN stood by her side, emphasizing that the charges were a clear breach of her right to free expression guaranteed by both the Gambian Constitution and international human rights treaties. Fatou Jaw-Manneh’s story is one of resilience and determination. Her unwavering commitment to truth and justice, even in the face of adversity, embodies the spirit of activism. She continues to serve as an inspiration to many, reminding us of the vital importance of press freedom and the role of journalists as defenders of democracy. Her journey illustrates the power of a voice, especially when wielded with courage and conviction.
Fatoumatta: Jaw-Manneh’s journey through incarceration and trial was undeniably challenging, but she emerged from it with incredible resilience and determination. Reflecting on her experience, she expressed, “This period was undoubtedly tough for me. Suddenly being confined to a facility that was far from healthy was overwhelming. The emotional and mental strain was significant. I found myself battling pesky mosquitoes in a cramped room, leaving me covered in bites and sleepless nights. However, I’m thankful that I remained healthy after six days of detention.” During her trial, she observed, “So much has changed since the military takeover. It’s disheartening to witness judges acting as mere puppets, being directed by the powers that be.
Many have chosen to align with the dictator, leading to unjust imprisonment of citizens on dubious charges.” Jaw-Manneh’s trial for sedition extended over a year and a half, culminating in a hefty fine of D250,000 (around $11,000) or a potential four-year jail sentence with hard labor. In the face of adversity, PEN American Center boldly reached out to President Jammeh on September 10, 2008, urging for Jaw-Manneh’s acquittal, though their plea went unanswered. With the steadfast support of her friends, family, and the Gambian Press Union, she made the empowering choice to pay the fine and continue her fight for freedom.
Upon returning to the U.S., Jaw-Manneh did not shy away from her mission to critique Jammeh’s regime. She openly described him as “more dangerous and corrupt than ever,” and emphasized the need for citizens to unite against his oppressive rule. She highlighted how “Gambians face arbitrary detainment and violence,” sharing her hope that he would be the last leader to govern with such tyranny. In her thought-provoking article “Plea to the Gambian Intellectual,” written in August 2012, she articulated a rallying call: “Gambia has been taken over by someone unfit to lead us, bringing fear and destruction. Our nation is in desperate need of those willing to rise up and liberate it from tyranny’s grasp.” She invited a select group, which she named ‘The Redemption Gambia Group’, to collaboratively develop a plan to steer the country back toward hope and progress. Drawing inspiration from the American Founding Fathers, she passionately recounted, “Can you imagine the power of the British Empire at that time? Fifty brave Americans boldly signed the Declaration of Independence, risking everything for their lives and liberties. Their courage paved the way for future generations—today, everyone aspires to come to America for opportunities.” In September 2012, Jaw-Manneh actively participated in a powerful protest alongside Gambian and Senegalese citizens outside the State Capitol in St. Paul, Minnesota, against Jammeh’s brutal execution of nine death-row inmates. Her passionate voice rang clear: “This man is too brutal. We are not animals. Jammeh should not determine who lives, dies, or travels. That’s simply unjust.”
In a heartfelt videotaped interview, she declared, “We have a leader who acts inhumanely—his actions harm our fellow citizens daily. We must stand together and make it clear that we will not live in fear. This cycle of violence must end.” In November 2013, she penned a heartfelt tribute on the 75th birthday of her mentor, Best, expressing her gratitude for the opportunities he provided to those like herself who lacked family or government connections. Jaw-Manneh’s unwavering spirit and commitment to justice highlight her belief in a brighter future for Gambia—one filled with hope, dignity, and unity among its people.
Fatoumatta: In 2013, when Gambia enacted a restrictive new press law, Fatou Jaw Manneh took a bold stand on Facebook, declaring: “Senseless and Ruthless! We are not threatened and shall never back down!!!” Her passion and commitment to freedom resonated widely, and she shared her insights at the Oslo Freedom Forum in May 2014. Fatou’s remarkable dedication to the cause of free expression has been recognized with prestigious accolades, including the Oxfam Novib/PEN International Free Expression Award in 2007, which honors those who advocate for freedom of expression despite facing persecution. In 2009, she was also honored with the Hellman/Hammett Award from Human Rights Watch, aimed at supporting courageous writers who challenge authority and public policy. As a devoted champion of democracy and active civil society advocate, Fatou Jaw Manneh embodies courage and tenacity.
Her unwavering spirit in advocating for justice began during her days as an opinion writer in The Gambia and continued during her time in the United States. Unafraid to voice her opinions, she played an instrumental role in the pro-democracy movements opposing the military dictatorship of Yahya Jammeh. Despite facing harrowing challenges such as arrests, harassment, and even detention while advocating for her beliefs, Fatou never backed down. She stood resolutely against tyranny and never allowed herself to be silenced or diminished. Her fearless activism is an indelible part of Gambia’s journey toward democracy.
Fatou Jaw Manneh fought diligently for freedom and the rule of law, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to her country’s pro-democracy movement. Her contributions alongside various civil society groups in the diaspora highlight her dedication to creating a just and equitable society, putting her life on the line for her convictions. Although she has not held a public office, Fatou has been a stalwart presence in the public consciousness over the past two decades during this remarkable period of democratic progress. She epitomizes what it means to be a true citizen—a devoted patriot who believes that her life holds greater meaning when she actively participates in promoting the common good of her community and country. Fatou Jaw Manneh’s story is a testament to resilience and hope, reflecting the power of one individual’s voice in advocating for justice and equality. Her legacy continues to inspire others to strive for a brighter future, ensuring that the principles of democracy remain strong and vibrant in Gambia. Indeed, her name is forever etched in the history of our hard-won freedom, a shining example of the spirit and dedication required to foster a thriving democratic society.
Throughout the past two and a half decades, I have had the privilege of collaborating with Fatou Jaw Manneh across various organizations and political movements. I wholeheartedly attest to her relentless work ethic, remarkable intellect, and unwavering loyalty to her deeply held principles. Even in moments of political disagreement, I have always recognized her genuine commitment to her cause. Fatou Jaw Manneh epitomizes what it means to prioritize the well-being of her country above personal gain. With her immense talent and capabilities, she could have easily chosen a path focused solely on her own welfare and that of her family; instead, she devoted herself to noble struggles for justice. It is no mere coincidence that Fatou Jaw Manneh, a tireless warrior, stands as a comrade in the relentless quest for justice, liberty, and the dignity of the marginalized in the enduring fight for a better Gambia.
I join hundreds of thousands in honoring, celebrating, and paying tribute to Fatou Jaw Manneh. Her life powerfully demonstrates that it is not the length of our lives that counts, but the courage and purpose we infuse into them. She is a true champion of authentic journalism and a steadfast pro-democracy activist. Her legacy continues to resonate in the hearts of countless Gambians and many others who have been inspired by her indomitable spirit in the fight against authoritarianism. The contrast between Wole Soyinka’s “The Man Died” and Fatou Jaw Manneh’s activism poignantly highlights the divide between those who remain silent and those who rise to action. Jaw Manneh’s extraordinary bravery in the face of Jammeh’s dictatorship serves as a profound testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the critical importance of resistance. Her story, much like Soyinka’s, inspires all who seek justice and freedom amidst oppression.
Fatoumatta: Fatou Jaw Manneh’s legacy embodies resilience and hope. As a journalist, she wielded her pen to inspire and uplift, highlighting the crucial role of journalists and activists in fostering social and political change. Her fearless journalism and activism shine as a beacon of hope and defiance, motivating future generations to continue the fight for democracy and human rights. In celebrating Fatou Jaw Manneh, we honor her sacrifices and recognize her lasting impact on the world. Her story serves as a reminder that true courage is standing up for what is right, even in the face of daunting challenges. Her legacy endures, ensuring that through us, she continues to inspire. Unlike those who remain silent or seek recognition without having fought for justice, Fatou Jaw Manneh’s bravery and commitment to justice will always stand as a testament to the power of the human spirit.
