Alhaji Kuyateh, born in Niumi Lamin, near Kunta Kinteh’s home of Juffereh, is a middle-aged man who has been playing kora for the most part of his lifetime. His father, grand father and great grand father were all specialists in kora.

In his early days, Alhaji could not go to school; he was taken to Bai Conteh in Brikama to learn kora. He spent five years learning the kora whilst also engaging in farm work. His parents had only six of them but he has now doubled that number of children. Our society and Development Chief Malafie Badjie looks at this fine kora player, who now lives happily with his family.

Society & Development: Could you please tell us about your early days?

Alhaji: My parents had six of us. I grew up with the family. My father passed away some time ago; my mum is still alive but very old now. I lived with them for twenty years. I enjoyed the time had with my parents. But I had to leave at 20 to learn kora at Brikama. This was painful but enriching. I couldn’t go to school due to my dad’s desire for me to take over from him. Now I am living on it [kora] with my family.
My dad felt I would be too slow learning from him, so he had to let me go somewhere else to learn it.

S&D: How long did you take to learn kora from your master?

Alhaji: Five good years.

S&D: Was it difficult?

Alhaji: It was not sweet, I must say.

S&D: Why?

Alhaji: I woke up at 6.00 a.m. till 12.00 midnight to practice. My free times were used on the rice field either on the swamp or upland or other manual labour.

S&D: Why didn’t you run away?

Alhaji: I wanted something and I got it, you can see it today.

S&D: Can you play the Kora well?

Alhaji: Yes, I can play it till today and quite well too.

S&D: Where do you play it?

Alhaji: I play it on TV shows, wedding, naming ceremonies, parties and other events and functions.

S&D: Have you composed any songs?

Alhaji: Oh yeh! I have composed a lot of songs and released an album called Alhaji Kuyateh.

S&D: Do you intend composing more?

Alhaji: Yes! I am trying to make another album. By next month I will start.

S&D: Are you married?

Alhaji: Yes, to two beautiful wives. I have twelve children. I do not intend marrying any more (conferring with one of his wives). I may only marry a Toubab.

S&D: Have you ever been to Mecca?

Alhaji: Yes, I was there on pilgrimage in 2004.

S&D: What was your experience like?

Alhaji: Oh, it is a very nice place. Everything on earth is there: money, clothes, cars, you name them. I was very happy on my return. It is good to be there.

S&D: Has it made any difference in your religious life?

Alhaji: I now feel refreshed; my face has changed, my attitude and mind have all changed for the better. It makes one love God more, thus becoming kind to mankind. It is a place or renewal or refreshment of the individual’s spirituality.

S&D: How much does it cost you?

Alhaji: It cost me D100,000 plus. It is too much. Not everyone can afford such money.

S&D: How did you finance your trip?

Alhaji: It was Buba Saho who financed my trip. He is my friend and my host. He lives in Kotu. He is just a kind man.

S&D: Any word to other kora players?

Alhaji: Let them play well. They should be guided by good things; let them hold on to the job. Those who sing should not forget the great Buba Saho. He is helpful and kind. I am his griot. (‘Jalo’) Alhaji Kuyateh.

S&D: Where else have you been apart from The Gambia?

Alhaji: I have been to Liberia and have lived in Sefadu in the Kono district of Sierra Leone. The people there are exceptionally good and kind. I enjoyed there so much.

S&D: Will any of your children take after you?

Alhaji; Yes! I am teaching Alkali Kuyateh and Modou Kuyateh. They love it [kora] too. They will be powerful.

S&D: Well, Alhaji, you have been kind with your time. I thank you.

Alhaji: Thank you too, your questions are good.