We may have contributed to this without even knowing it. The Gambian music industry has a very challenging system that can break an artist and their spirit forever if they are not mentally strong. Not every artist can withstand the pressures and changes that come with the industry. Aya was supported throughout his music career, but after spending some time away and returning, he may have expected the same level of support. He had put in so much hard work, invested his time and resources, only to see everything he had built seemingly evaporate. That can be extremely difficult to absorb. Our Gambian society, especially the music industry, also has a troubling habit of treating artists from the diaspora differently. Instead of supporting them or doing fair business with them, some people take advantage of them and charge them more simply because they are diaspora artists. Corporate sponsorship is also a major challenge. We have seen Aya complain about the lack of support shortly before his event, but many of us turned a blind eye. There is a lot that happens behind the scenes to become a successful artist. For many, it means investing their life savings, only to watch their efforts and resources disappear. Many artists go through depression, stress, and other mental health challenges while still trying to find the strength and balance to live among us and entertain their fans. We are not insinuating that these challenges are the cause of the current incident, but we believe they may have contributed to whatever he is going through in his life. We pray that Aya comes through this difficult moment, finds strength, and returns stronger than ever. - @citizen_outlook