Transliterated title: Mandinkakaŋ Suukuwo.
The manuscript is written by the famous Mandinka religious scholar, poet, and educator, Kang Kalifa Diaby. Kang Kalifa translated many important texts from Arabic and Soninke Ajami (Sarakhole) into Mandinka. He has greatly contributed to the expansion of Islamic education and Ajami in Mandinka communities of Senegambia. The manuscript is a poem dealing with the virtues of Prophet Muḥammad and his communication with Angel Gabriel at critical moments in the history of Islam. The poem is meant to be recited and chanted in Mandinka communities.
Custodial history: The manuscript owner inherited it from his father (Bonko Faty) who received it from his teacher and mentor (Kang Kalifa Diaby). His father was born in the village of Bonko in Guinea-Bissau and received his education from the renowned scholar, Kang Kalifa Diaby in The Gambia. He served as Imam and a religious leader in Karantaba in Senegal until his death.
Extent and format of original material: 50 pages.
Physical characteristics: Unbound manuscript. The manuscript is old. Several pages are damaged on the sides. There are stains on many pages and the ink in some pages is fading away. Red ink is used to highlight key words.
Owner(s) of original material: Kalifa Faty.
Author(s) of original material: Kang Kalifa Diaby.
Additional script information: Mandinka Ajami.
