Who Was Babacar Mbaye Ndaak? Life, Career and Death

Babacar Mbaye Ndaak, the Senegalese teacher, writer and storyteller widely known as the “Maître de la Parole,” has died in Dakar.

The founder and president of the Association of Senegalese Storytellers, known as Leeboon ci Leer, died during the night of Sunday, July 26, into Monday, July 27, 2026.

Senegal’s national news agency, APS, confirmed his death on Monday. Dr Massamba Guèye, founder of Kër Leyti and a prominent Senegalese storyteller, also paid tribute to Ndaak as a mentor, guide and protector.

Ndaak spent decades protecting Senegal’s oral traditions. Through teaching, writing, television and live performance, he presented storytelling as more than entertainment. For him, it was a way to educate children, preserve history and strengthen social values.

What was Babacar Mbaye Ndaak’s cause of death?

The medical cause of Babacar Mbaye Ndaak’s death had not been publicly announced at the time of publication.

APS, RTS and Emedia reported that he died in Dakar during the night of July 26–27, 2026. None of those reports identified an illness or another medical cause.

His exact age and funeral arrangements had also not been officially confirmed.

Who was Babacar Mbaye Ndaak?

Babacar Mbaye Ndaak was a Senegalese history and geography teacher, storyteller, writer and cultural trainer.