In the hours leading up to his death, Cissé had expressed a desire for Mali's military government to better support the film industry, citing the need for visibility beyond creating films. His debut feature film "Den Muso" faced severe censorship, highlighting the struggles faced by African filmmakers. Along with "Yeelen," his notable works include "Baara" and "Waati". Cissé was a passionate voice for the cinematic arts, urging a shift towards self-sufficiency for emerging filmmakers. Born in Bamako and educated in the Soviet Union, Cissé left an indelible mark as a founding figure of African cinema.

Cissé’s passing is not just a loss for his family but for the entire African film community, as expressed by Mali's Culture Minister and other filmmakers. His dedication to illuminating African themes and stories continues to inspire a new generation.