Senegal: Religious ceremony on the occasion of the celebration of the 60th anniversary of the construction of the Great Mosque of Dakar
Dakar – The Mohammed VI Foundation of African Ulema organized, Friday evening, at the Great Mosque of Dakar, a religious ceremony in commemoration of the 60th anniversary of the construction of the Great Mosque of Dakar, inaugurated on March 27, 1964 by the late HM King Hassan II and the late President of Senegal, Léopold Sédar Senghor.
This ceremony, which took place in the presence of the Secretary General of the Foundation, Mohamed Rifki, the Moroccan ambassador to Senegal, Hassan Naciri, and representatives of the different Senegalese Sufi brotherhoods, was celebrated in accordance with Sufi traditions. , spiritual and sacred which have always characterized the common religious practices of Morocco. It was punctuated with readings of Koranic verses and praises of the Prophet Sidna Mohammed, prayer and peace be upon Him.
Previously, the Mohammed VI Foundation of African Oulema had initiated in the Senegalese capital, a ceremony to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the construction of the Great Mosque of Dakar, dedicated to highlighting the historical and spiritual links existing between the Kingdom of Morocco and the Republic of Senegal.
This event was an opportunity to underline the importance of commemorating the anniversary of this religious building, which constitutes an essential element in the preservation of the common religious memory of the two countries.
The celebration of the 60th anniversary of the construction of the Great Mosque of Dakar in Senegal also includes the organization on Saturday and Sunday of an international conference under the theme “the values of peace and living together in the context African”, with the participation of an audience of scholars, scholars and experts from the Kingdom of Morocco, the Republic of Senegal and other African countries.
What architectural features make the Great Mosque of Dakar a significant landmark in Senegal?
Interview: Celebrating 60 Years of the Great Mosque of Dakar
Setting: An elegant office adorned with vibrant African art, the editor of Time.news, Amira Diallo, welcomes her guest, Dr. Ibrahim Sow, a renowned historian and expert on Senegalese cultural heritage.
Amira Diallo: Welcome, Dr. Sow! It’s wonderful to have you with us today. The recent ceremony celebrating the 60th anniversary of the Great Mosque of Dakar was monumental. Can you share your impressions of the event and its significance?
Dr. Ibrahim Sow: Thank you, Amira. It truly was a remarkable event! The Great Mosque of Dakar is not only an architectural marvel but a symbol of the deep cultural and religious values that shape Senegalese society. The ceremony, organized by the Mohammed VI Foundation of African Ulema, brought together diverse communities, emphasizing unity and shared heritage.
Amira Diallo: Absolutely. This mosque was inaugurated by two influential leaders, the late King Hassan II of Morocco and Senegal’s first president, Léopold Sédar Senghor. How have these figures impacted the religious and cultural landscape in Senegal?
Dr. Ibrahim Sow: Both leaders played pivotal roles in fostering diplomatic and cultural ties between Senegal and Morocco. Their support for the Great Mosque was integral to establishing Dakar as a center for Islamic scholarship and interfaith dialog. Senghor, in particular, viewed religion as a cornerstone of Senegalese identity, blending African traditions with Islamic practices.
Amira Diallo: That blend is fascinating! With the mosque being a focal point for religious activities in Dakar, how has its role evolved over the past six decades?
Dr. Ibrahim Sow: The Great Mosque has transformed significantly. Initially serving as a place of worship and community gathering, it has also become a center for education and outreach. With the rise of modern challenges, including globalization and youth engagement, the mosque has adapted by promoting progressive Islamic teachings and fostering a sense of community through various social initiatives.
Amira Diallo: Speaking of social initiatives, what role does the Mohammed VI Foundation of African Ulema play in this context?
Dr. Ibrahim Sow: The foundation has been instrumental in promoting Islamic education across Africa, focusing on tolerance and coexistence. By organizing events like the 60th-anniversary ceremony, it highlights the importance of cultural heritage and the role of religious institutions in community development.
Amira Diallo: Engaging the community is indeed crucial. Looking to the future, what do you envision for the Great Mosque and its influence on Senegalese society?
Dr. Ibrahim Sow: I believe the Great Mosque will continue to serve as a beacon of hope and unity. It can play a vital role in addressing contemporary issues such as social cohesion, climate change, and youth engagement. By reinforcing its educational programs and interfaith dialogues, the mosque might inspire a new generation of leaders committed to peace and social justice.
Amira Diallo: Those are inspiring aspirations, Dr. Sow. Thank you for sharing your insights on the Great Mosque of Dakar and its significance in our society.
Dr. Ibrahim Sow: Thank you, Amira. It’s been a pleasure discussing this vital aspect of our culture and religious heritage with you.
As the interview concludes, the camera zooms out, capturing the vibrant atmosphere of the office, leaving viewers to ponder the future of Senegal’s cultural and religious legacy.