Meet The Alkamba Times Chairman of the Editorial Board, Uncle Alieu Sagnia

In the heart of The Gambia, where the sun casts golden rays over the bustling streets of Banjul, a quiet yet indomitable force has shaped the nation’s media landscape for over four decades. His name is Alieu Sagnia, fondly known as “Uncle Alieu,” a towering figure whose life is a testament to the power of resilience, passion, and an unwavering commitment to truth. As the Chairman of the Editorial Board and lead trainer at The Alkamba Times, Uncle Alieu’s story is one of inspiration, a beacon for aspiring journalists, and a reminder that dedication to a craft can transform lives and communities.

Born in a modest village in The Gambia, Alieu’s early years were marked by curiosity and a love for storytelling. Growing up in a time when access to education was a privilege, he walked miles to school, his young mind absorbing every book, radio broadcast, and conversation he could. The crackle of the radio, bringing news from distant lands, sparked a fire in him—a desire to inform, educate, and amplify the voices of his people. Little did he know that this spark would ignite a career spanning over 40 years, making him a cornerstone of Gambian journalism.

Alieu’s journey began in the 1970s, when The Gambia’s media was still establishing itself. 

With a sharp intellect and a relentless drive, he joined the Department of Information, quickly rising through the ranks due to his knack for clear communication and his ability to navigate the complexities of a young nation’s information systems. 

By the time he became Director of the Department of Information, Alieu had already earned a reputation as a visionary leader who believed that media was not just about reporting events but about fostering dialogue, accountability, and progress.

His tenure as Country Director of the International Center for Journalism’s media project in The Gambia was a defining chapter. 

Alieu spearheaded initiatives to train young journalists, equipping them with the skills to report with integrity in a challenging environment. Under his guidance, countless Gambian journalists learned the art of investigative reporting, fact-checking, and storytelling that resonates. He wasn’t just a mentor; he was a father figure, encouraging his trainees to ask tough questions and stand firm in the face of adversity. His mantra, “The truth is our shield, and our pen is our sword,” became a rallying cry for a generation of journalists.

In 2024, when The Alkamba Times faced a daunting legal battle over a corruption exposé involving a government minister, Uncle Alieu stood at the forefront, undeterred. The lawsuit threatened the paper’s independence, but Alieu, with his decades of experience, rallied his team and the community. “We don’t just report the news,” he said, his voice steady yet passionate, “we defend the right to know.” With his leadership, The Alkamba Times launched a crowdfunding campaign to cover legal fees, galvanizing support from Gambians at home and in the diaspora. The outpouring of donations wasn’t just about money—it was a testament to the trust Alieu had built over decades as a champion of free speech.

As Chairman of the Editorial Board, Alieu brought his wealth of experience to shape The Alkamba Times into a fearless voice for truth. He instilled a culture of excellence, ensuring every story was rigorously vetted and every journalist empowered to dig deeper. His in-house media training sessions, which he leads with a blend of wisdom and warmth, are legendary. Young reporters sit wide-eyed as Uncle Alieu shares stories of navigating censorship, building sources, and reporting under pressure during The Gambia’s turbulent political eras. His training isn’t just about skills—it’s about instilling courage. “A journalist’s job is to shine a light where others want darkness,” he tells them, his eyes gleaming with conviction.

At over 60, Alieu shows no signs of slowing down. His days are filled with mentoring, editing, and strategizing to keep The Alkamba Times at the forefront of Gambian media. His home, adorned with awards and mementos from a storied career, is a gathering place for journalists young and old, who come to hear his stories and seek his advice. Yet, Alieu remains humble, often deflecting praise to his team. “Journalism is a collective effort,” he says. “I’m just one part of a larger mission to inform and uplift.”

Uncle Alieu’s story is one of quiet heroism. In a world where truth is often under siege, he has spent 40 years building a legacy of integrity, mentorship, and courage. Through his work at The Alkamba Times and beyond, he has not only shaped Gambian journalism but inspired a nation to demand transparency and accountability. 

As he leads another training session, his voice steady and his passion undimmed, Uncle Alieu Sagnia remains a guiding light, proving that one person’s dedication can change the course of history—one story at a time.

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