Tribute to Mame Less Camara: a trailblazer of journalism in Africa
By Venuste Alexandre Nshimiyimana
Mame Less Camara was a highly respected journalist and a dear colleague at the BBC who died on 29 April 2023 aged 67. He was a shining example of journalistic excellence, bringing his extensive knowledge of the West African region to the forefront of his reporting. His commitment to the profession and the communities he served was evident in everything he did.
I had the pleasure of working with Mame Less Camara during his time at BBC Afrique. He was a true professional, always ready to go the extra mile to get the story right. He had an uncanny ability to get to the heart of a story, to dig deep and uncover the facts that others had missed. He was also a gifted storyteller, able to bring the people he interviewed to life through his words and his reporting.
But Mame Less was much more than just a talented journalist. He was a friend and a mentor to many of us at the BBC. He had a warm and generous spirit, always ready to lend a listening ear or a helping hand. He had a deep understanding of the challenges facing journalists in the region, and he was always willing to share his experience and knowledge with others.
Mame Less was a true son of Senegal, and his love for his country and its people was evident in everything he did. He had a deep sense of social justice, and he was always advocating for the rights of the marginalized and the oppressed. He was a fearless defender of the truth, even when it meant putting himself at risk.
One of the things that struck me most about Mame Less was his humility. Despite his many accomplishments and accolades, he remained grounded and focused on the work at hand. He never lost sight of the fact that journalism is ultimately about serving the public, and he approached every story with a sense of purpose and dedication.
Mame Less’ impact on the field of journalism in West Africa cannot be overstated. He was a trailblazer, paving the way for a new generation of journalists to follow in his footsteps. He was a role model for many, showing us all what it means to be a journalist of integrity and conscience.
I will always remember Mame Less with great fondness and respect. He was a consummate professional, a dedicated journalist, and a true friend. His legacy will live on in the many lives he touched and the stories he told. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his spirit will continue to inspire us all to strive for excellence in our work and to never lose sight of the power of journalism to make a difference in the world. Adieu Mame Less. VAN
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