Fanny Touré(1964-2014)

As she was born in a family of Muslim priests in Bamako, her family was not happy when she became well known young as a singer. For women of her class,singing was for family and friends entertainment. Her talent singing on TV was recognized by Salif Keïta who produced her first album. She became a well know singer and musician and promoter of women's rights in Africa through her music and festivals. She was made a dame of the national order of Mali in 2010 and given a national funeral in Magnanbougou on December 9.