About Sheikh Jassong Touray (1911–1991)

The history of our foundation is rooted in the life, devotion, and enduring spiritual legacy of Sheikh Jassong Touray (affectionately revered as Ummud Jassong Touray). Born Lang Touray in 1911 in the village of Jassong, Jarra East, he became one of the most prominent spiritual pillars in modern Gambian history.

The Journey of Faith

Sheikh Jassong dedicated decades of his life to an intensive pursuit of Islamic scholarship. After spending roughly 40 years acquiring deep religious knowledge in Soma and the surrounding areas, he eventually settled in Buiba, Jarra Central, where he established the Buiba Caliphate.

Choosing a life of strict simplicity and humility, he was famously known as a barefooted spiritual leader who completely dedicated his existence to Allah and the welfare of humanity.

A Legacy of Service and Miracles

Sheikh Jassong’s influence touched health, community infrastructure, and peaceful diplomacy across the Senegambia subregion:

• Spiritual Healing: He was widely renowned for his spiritual gifts, utilizing powerful prayers to care for the vulnerable, the sick, and those suffering from mental illnesses.

• The Holy Lake: He established the tradition of visiting the miraculous holy lake of Jassong Touray. On specific occasions, he and the village elders would gather at the lake to perform the Asr prayer, offering special supplications for the sick and needy.

• Community Development: A champion of development, he personally spearheaded the construction of more than a dozen mosques across the region and actively promoted agriculture.

• Conflict Resolution: Known for his immense honesty and gentle demeanor, he served as an essential arbiter, settling numerous complex religious and communal disputes across borders.

"His life was defined by a simple truth: to live humbly before Allah and to serve the sick, the needy, and the community without seeking worldly reward."

Continuing the Mission

Following his passing in August 1991, his spiritual lineage and the leadership of the Buiba Caliphate were passed down to his eldest son, Khalifa General Sheikh Sadibou Touray, who faithfully preserves these sacred traditions today.

Every year, tens of thousands of disciples (talibes) and Muslims from across West Africa converge on Buiba for the massive annual Gamo. This gathering features the recitation of the Holy Quran, Islamic lectures, and communal prayers to honor his memory.

Today, the Sheikh Jassong Touray Foundation actively manages community development projects, coordinates the annual Gamo, and organizes humanitarian donations to keep his noble vision alive for generations to come.