Like many Christians in The Gambia, Abdoullah has more Muslim friends than Christians and goes around with them in performing religious rituals and celebrating feasts. And, in December last year, he made the ultimate decision to convert to Islam. In this interview, he tells us how and why it all happened.
What’s On-Gambia: Tell us briefly about yourself?
Abdoullah: My Islamic names are Abdullah Jatta, the second son of Abdou and Elizabeth Jatta. I am a Gambian by birth and nationality. In the early 2000 my family was all Christians but today I am very proud to tell you that 75% of them converted to Islam. Only my mum and one sister are Christians. I wish one day, Allah shows them the light that I felt.
When did you convert to Islam?
I converted to Islam on the 2nd December, 2015 at Tallinding Glifity Kunda Mosque, Kanifing Municipality, The Gambia.
Can you tell us what you like most about Islam?
The five daily payers, unity, love, sharing and caring for each other.
There are many reasons for my conversion. Since I was young, I used to follow friends to ‘daras’ and mosques. I can recite some suhras of the Holy Quran. I knew a lot about Prophet Muhammed S.A.W.
What was your family’s reaction?
I had the full support of my dad and some of my siblings.
What about mum?
My mum was out of the country when I decided to convert, but she was informed.
Are you in school?
I am in Grade 10 at Sheikh Mass Kah Senior Secondary School.
Any final words?
Thank you a lot for the interview. A special thanks to my family, Drammeh Kunda Family (Lamin Drammeh, my best friend, Karamo and Sutay Drammeh) and the philanthropy boys, especially Modou Cham.