Thiamène (Fatick) — Residents of Thiamène are urging officials to expedite infrastructure projects, with the completion of a new mosque taking top priority. The call for faster progress came during the annual Gamou de Thiamène ceremony held on Saturday.
Mosque Completion a Key Demand for Thiamène Residents
Local leaders emphasize the mosque’s importance to the village’s identity as a religious center.
- The president of the Gamou de Thiamène organizing committee, Sidy Thiam, publicly requested accelerated infrastructure development.
- A new middle school (CEM) is also needed to alleviate overcrowding at the existing elementary school.
- Residents are also seeking a new health post to improve access to medical care.
- Rehabilitation of the Tattaguine-Thiamène-Fatick road is seen as vital for economic growth.
“The most urgent request concerns the acceleration of the construction of the mosque and its delivery, in order to allow Thiamène to be in line with its status as a religious city,” stated Sidy Thiam, president of the Gamou de Thiamène organizing committee, during the event, which drew authorities from across the Fatick region.
Additional Infrastructure Needs Highlighted
Beyond the mosque, Thiamène is also advocating for a new middle school. Currently, the elementary school is temporarily housing students in two classrooms to accommodate the overflow. A site for the new school has already been identified and is available.
Requests also included the construction of a health post to address the healthcare needs of the local population and the rehabilitation of the Tattaguine-Thiamène-Fatick road, which is expected to boost the village’s socio-economic development.
Local officials have acknowledged the concerns. Sub-prefect of Tattaguine, Ndèye Sophie Sène, expressed delight at the organization of the Gamou and welcomed the commitment shown by residents and local authorities. She indicated that requests made last year, including the need for a middle school, were being considered for this year’s budget.
Collaboration and Spiritual Significance
Sheikh El Hadji Abdoulaye ibn Cheikh Ahmed Dame Ibrahima Niass, a religious guide, encouraged attendees to maintain positive relationships with authorities, referencing the teachings of Ibrahim ibn El Hadji Niasse, known as Baye Niass, who advised followers to communicate grievances through proper channels.
Sheikh Niass also emphasized the historical and spiritual importance of Thiamène to his grandfather Baye Niass’s family, praising the collaboration between local authorities and the community. He specifically acknowledged the town hall’s support, including extensions to the hydraulic network, repairs to streetlights, and the provision of a mechanical excavator.
According to Sidy Thiam, the successful organization of the Gamou was a testament to the diligence of administrative authorities, particularly the sub-prefect of Tattaguine, despite the absence of a local development committee.
