In Loving Support for Papa’s Family

With a heavy heart, we are very sad to announce the passing of our Wula Drum Team member, Alhassana Keita. Known as “Papa”, he was the eldest of our talented crew in Guinea. We are collecting donations to support his family during this incredibly difficult time. All proceeds will go directly to them.

Papa’s craft was in carving the interior of the djembe, all by hand, and he had been part of the company since 2008. Papa was absolutely the most kind, gentle, humble soul I have ever met. He always greeted everyone with a warm smile, and it was hard to believe he was the eldest—he carried himself with the strength and vitality of someone much younger. 

Papa had recently fallen ill and after being in and out of the hospital, ended up going back to a specific hospital for people with tuberculosis. Surrounded and cared for by his family, Papa passed early on Sunday, June 8th. Papa is survived by his wife and 4 children.

Personally, I am so saddened, thinking about the last time we visited him at his house and meeting briefly with his family. I remember when leaving to get in the car, that I so looked forward to coming back to spend more time with him and his family. We truly never know what comes of the moments we have with people, until they are gone. 

Yambig Sylla, Director of Production in Guinea, says: “He (Papa) comes from a large family in Mamou (Dounet). Married and father of four children. He started working with Wula in 2008 as a drum fitter. He gradually began to fix the drums years later. We saw that there were fewer staff to fix the drums, so I directed him to the sculpture section inside the drums to strengthen the sculpture group. Given his motivation and courage, he was able to adapt to working on the inside of the drums; nearly 40% of the drums worked inside are made by him.” So, chances are if you own, or ever play a drum from Wula, most likely you are enjoying making music from an instrument he worked on.

We also accept donations via Venmo & Zelle. Please notate as: "Donation for Papa"
Venmo: @wula-drum
Zelle: info@wuladrum.com

Rest in peace, Papa. Your spirit and your work live on in every drum, every rhythm, and every heart you've touched. You will never be forgotten.

With love,
Michael Markus and the Wula Drum Team