The 131st edition of the Grand Magal of Touba concluded on Thursday with a formal closing ceremony that drew a significant government delegation, led by Minister of the Interior Jean Baptiste Tine, alongside representatives from neighboring and friendly nations.
The event, held in the heart of the city founded by Sheikh Ahmadou Bamba, combined religious fervor with political and diplomatic engagement, highlighting Touba’s central role in Senegalese national life and regional relations.
Representing President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, Minister Tine delivered the Head of State’s greetings to the Mouride dignitaries and requested their prayers for the success of national development projects.
“The President pays particular attention to the needs of Touba, especially in drinking water and sanitation, sectors where significant efforts are underway,” he noted in his address.
Beyond material development, the minister emphasized social cohesion as a key priority. Echoing the President’s call, he urged citizens to cultivate peace and unity, drawing inspiration from the teachings of Sheikh Ahmadou Bamba.
“This message is not only a call to moral reflection but a reminder of the values of work, respect, and community that underpin national harmony,” he added.
The ceremony also underscored the Magal’s international resonance.
The presence of foreign delegations illustrated Touba’s status as a spiritual and diplomatic crossroads, offering a platform for Senegal to engage with regional partners within a framework that blends religious tradition with state diplomacy.
The closing event ended on a note of mutual commitment. Government authorities pledged continued support for the city’s development, while Mouride leaders reaffirmed their dedication to moral and social guidance, reinforcing the enduring interplay between spiritual authority and national progress.
For Senegal, the Grand Magal remains not only a major religious occasion but also a showcase of the country’s capacity to balance cultural heritage with development priorities and international engagement.
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