Amadou Hampâté Bâ

Amadou Hampâté Bâ was a prominent Malian historian, writer, and ethnologist, born in 1900 and passed away in 1991. Renowned for his efforts to preserve and promote African oral traditions, he famously stated, "In Africa, when an elder dies, a library burns." Bâ’s work highlights the importance of storytelling in transmitting culture and history. He served as a key figure in the establishment of African studies and was influential in international organizations promoting cultural heritage. His writings, including "Amkoullel, the Fula Boy," provide valuable insights into West African history and identity.