The world of African cinema is in mourning. Senegalese actress Halima Gadji , a true leading figure of a new generation of free women, passed away this Monday, January 26, 2026, in Paris. Struck down by a sudden illness at the age of 36, the woman who lent her features to the unforgettable Marème Dial leaves behind a tremendous void.

A continental shockwave

From Dakar to Abidjan, from Bamako to Paris, the emotion is palpable on social media. Halima Gadji was not just an actress; for many, she had become a symbol of empowered women. Her dual heritage—Moroccan-Algerian through her mother and Senegalese through her life experiences—gave her a unique aura that transcended borders.

Marème Dial: The Role of a Lifetime

It was in 2019 that her career took off with the hit series " Maîtresse d'un homme marié" (Mistress of a Married Man ). By playing Marème Dial, a woman who is strong, transgressive and vulnerable, she placed social issues at the heart of African homes.

Faced with criticism accusing her of being a "bad example," Halima Gadji never backed down. She used her platform to denounce the double standard imposed on women regarding their sexuality and individual freedom.

A courageous fight for mental health

Beyond the spotlight, Halima Gadji distinguished herself by a rare courage: that of speaking openly about her struggle against depression .

1. Breaking taboos: She worked tirelessly to destigmatize mental health in Africa, refusing to see this suffering as a lack of faith or a weakness.
2. A disturbing end: Just six days before her death, she published a poignant video in which she spoke of being the target of mystical attacks (witchcraft), illustrating the complexity and harshness of her personal struggle.

A successful career

With more than a dozen films to her credit, her talent was officially recognized in 2020 by the Best Actress Award at the Sotigui Awards .

"Depression is real, even among Africans. It is neither a weakness nor a lack of faith." — Tribute from an admirer on X.

The departure of Halima Gadji marks the end of a chapter for Senegalese cinema, but her legacy, that of a woman who dared to say out loud what many thought quietly, will remain etched in our memories.