A 110-page book on the life of Gambian businessman, sports leader, and philanthropist Matarr Abdoulie Sarr (1932–1973), who was tragically killed by Gambian police on March 28, 1973, after a gunfight at his Fajara house, has been published by historian Hassoum Ceesay.

According to Hassoum Ceesay, Matarr was a successful citizen, a devoted family man, and a patriot who was born in Banjul. He stood up against government corruption and paid a high price for it when he witnessed PPP government officials, who were acting on behalf of monopolistic business interests operating in The Gambia at the time, ruining his investments.

“I researched and wrote this book on M.A. Sarr for sixteen months.” He opposed corruption and the haughtiness of authority. He was of the opinion that young Gambians should take over the nation’s economy as soon as independence is achieved. Mr. Ceesay remarked of Matarr, “He believed in youths, sports, and philanthropy to build a vibrant and prosperous The Gambia.” According to the biography, “he was framed and killed by Police at an infamous firefight at Fajara in 1973 because strong forces in the Government did not want him to do what he was doing.” The eminent historian clarified that Matarr may have become the Gambian Bill Gates or Dangote had he not been shot.

Photos of Matarr and his companions, like as Dr. Pengu George, the Gambian rebel who was put to death by Kukoi Samba Sanyang in 1981, are used throughout the book to great effect. The book is accessible at Timbooktoo and has a solid index.

“This biography represents a humble endeavor on my part to restore honor to a forgotten Gambian nationalist,” Mr. Ceesay said.