In their interventions during a panel organized as part of an international scientific conference under the theme “the values of peace and living together in the African context”, the various participants stressed that the Commanderie des Croyants protects the religion of different forms of extremism, radicalism and hatred, noting that it strengthens spiritual security capable of contributing to the consolidation of the foundations of peace, security and development in Africa.
In this regard, they specified that the institution of the Commandery of the Believers advances the components of the nation and establishes the values of moderation, middle ground and tolerance within the framework of the legitimate constants of the Islamic religion.
The institution of Imarat Al Mouminine works to promote the values of peace, coexistence and tolerance in order to strengthen the human, spiritual and fraternal ties which unite the Kingdom of Morocco and other African countries, they added.
In this context, the vice-president of the University of Al Quaraouiyine, Idriss Al-Fassi Fihri, stressed that the Commandery of the Believers strengthens the spiritual and moral security of society and protects it from radicalism and extremist intellectual currents, noting that this Institution plays an essential role in the unification of the nation, the preservation of its religious constants, the dissemination of the culture of tolerance and moderation, as well as the achievement of security and stability.
For his part, Mohamed Hanafi Dah, member of the Mauritania Section of the Mohammed VI Foundation of African Ulemas, highlighted the contribution of Imarat Al Mouminine to the promotion of the values of living together and peace on the African continent, affirming that this contribution is of great importance in the life of the nation.
For her part, Khadija Abou Zeid, professor at the Faculty of Letters and Human Sciences of the Mohammed V University of Rabat, focused on the role of this Institution in promoting the values of coexistence, tolerance, fair environment and moderation in Africa, noting that the promotion of these values, inspired by the teachings of the Islamic religion, guarantees the unity and cohesion of the nation and achieves security and community peace.
The president of the Burkina Faso section of the Foundation, Aboubacar Doukouré, for his part, highlighted the efforts of the Foundation in the service of common values and the strengthening of the foundations of spiritual security in the African continent, with a view to confront extremism and hatred, through the consolidation of religious constants which constitute the basis of peace and coexistence between African individuals and societies.
Organized over two days at the initiative of the Mohammed VI Foundation of African Ulemas, this conclave, which is being held on the occasion of the commemoration of the 60th anniversary of the construction of the Great Mosque of Dakar, aims to highlight the incarnation of common religious values among the Ulemas and African scholars and their impact in the realization of peaceful coexistence within the societies of the Continent.
How can educational initiatives contribute to countering radical ideologies in different countries?
Interview between the Time.news Editor and Idriss Al-Fassi Fihri, Vice-President of the University of Al Quaraouiyine
Editor: Welcome, Idriss Al-Fassi Fihri. Thank you for joining us today. The recent international scientific conference focused on ”the values of peace and living together in the African context.” Can you share with us the key takeaways from the discussions that took place there?
Al-Fassi Fihri: Thank you for having me. The discussions were robust and deeply insightful. A consensus emerged on the vital role that the Commanderie des Croyants plays in safeguarding our religious values against extremism and radicalism. Participants emphasized how this institution fosters spiritual security that lays the groundwork for peace, security, and sustainable development across Africa.
Editor: That sounds crucial for societal cohesion. Can you elaborate on how the Commanderie des Croyants specifically promotes moderation and tolerance within the Islamic context?
Al-Fassi Fihri: Certainly. The Commanderie des Croyants not only advocates for the central tenets of moderation and tolerance inherent in Islam but also actively practices these principles. By promoting a culture of middle ground, it reinforces the values of coexistence among diverse communities in Morocco and across Africa. This institutional framework is essential to unify the nation and ensure the preservation of our religious constants in the face of contemporary challenges.
Editor: It’s fascinating to hear how spirituality integrates with the promotion of peace. How does the Commanderie work with other African nations to strengthen these human and spiritual ties?
Al-Fassi Fihri: The Commanderie collaborates with various institutions and civil societies across Africa, fostering initiatives that emphasize peace and coexistence. This collaboration is pivotal in building relationships based on mutual respect and understanding. Such partnerships facilitate the exchange of ideas and best practices, further strengthening the bonds that unite us as Africans.
Editor: In light of the rising tensions we often see across various regions, what role does the Commanderie play in combating radical ideologies?
Al-Fassi Fihri: The Commanderie of the Believers serves as a bulwark against extremist ideologies by reinforcing the spiritual and moral security of society. It engages in educational outreach to disseminate the culture of tolerance and moderation. By addressing the root causes of radical thought and promoting dialog, the institution plays an essential role in maintaining societal stability and security.
Editor: That’s quite impactful. Given the success of these measures, what steps would you recommend for other countries that might be struggling to promote peace and tolerance?
Al-Fassi Fihri: Every country has its unique context, but I would recommend fostering interreligious dialog, investing in education, and empowering local communities to engage in peacebuilding efforts. Additionally, aligning with existing cultural and religious institutions can help frame policies that resonate with societal values. This inclusive approach can effectively counter radicalization and strengthen the foundations of peace.
Editor: Thank you, Idriss, for sharing these valuable insights. The work of the Commanderie des Croyants seems to be truly pioneering in promoting peace and co-existence. We appreciate your time.
Al-Fassi Fihri: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to discuss these important matters. Together, I believe we can make significant strides toward peace and tolerance across the African continent.