Researcher, The Gambia
Omar is a Gambian historian, educator, emerging archaeologist, and heritage researcher dedicated to advancing the study and preservation of African history and cultural heritage. He recently completed a Master of Arts in African History, with a dissertation titled “The Role of Women in Fish Processing and Marketing in Coastal Gambia, 1980–2021”, which explores the contributions of women to the fisheries sector and their role in local economic development.
He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Education (History and Political Science) from the University of The Gambia and completed the Basic Archaeological Training under the Kansala Archaeological Project in 2024. His research interests include African history, archaeology, oral traditions, gender history, Islamic history, and heritage conservation. He has also contributed to research projects involving the documentation of Mandinka oral traditions and the collection of oral histories across Senegambia.
Through archaeological research, histories on the verge of being lost are rediscovered and transformed into tangible evidence of Africa’s rich past. By uncovering, documenting, and preserving these remains, the project safeguards our shared heritage and helps present and future generations understand and appreciate the depth, diversity, and resilience of African civilizations.
As a teacher at Kotu Senior Secondary School, Omar combines research with public engagement, inspiring young people to appreciate history and cultural heritage. Through his involvement with the MAEASaM project, he is committed to advancing archaeological research, digital heritage documentation, and collaborative initiatives that preserve and promote Africa’s rich historical legacy for future generations.