Published on : 16/09/2022 – 03:53
The Grand Magal of Touba was celebrated on Thursday, September 15, by the Mouride community in Senegal. This key event commemorates the departure into exile of Cheikh Ahmadou Bamba, founder of Mouridism in 1895, and which is celebrated every year. Several “talibés” – followers of this religious organization – made the trip to Touba, nearly 200 kilometers from Dakar, with enthusiasm slung over their shoulders.
With our correspondent in Dakar, Birahim Toure
Panegyrics at the bottom of the decibels, several men, women, young and old who brave the heat on this very sunny day. We are in Touba, the capital of Mouridism. Here, the disciples come from everywhere, from Senegal and outside Senegal. They all have faith in common, especially on September 15, 2022, on the occasion of the Grand Magal.
Ndiaga Kharma is a talibé of Borom Darou, one of the most influential marabouts from the community : « I am from Dakar but I came here to represent the departure into exile of Sheikh Ahmadou Bamba, which we commemorate. We cannot do more than that for Cheikh Ahmadou Bamba. He did everything for Islam, the good God and the prophet. All we can do as disciples is to come on this day of Magal. »
Like his classmate, Youssoupha Cissé, originally from Dakar, is also in Touba for the needs of Magal. He is a merchant of circumstance. A choice dictated by this religious event which attracts a lot of people, and therefore a lot of potential customers: “ It is a day when all products can be sold in one day, by the grace of Cheikh Ahmadou Bamba. And that, economically speaking, is something very important. »
The Magal is one of the most important religious events of the year in Senegal. According to a law enforcement report, at least 18 people died in traffic accidents. A balance sheet which could evolve with the many vehicles which will take the way back on Friday.
► To read also: Grand Magal de Touba: in Dakar, pilgrims face the puzzle of transport