Senegal’s Journey: Embracing Democracy and Islam as Pillars of Progress

Senegal's Historical Journey: From Colony to Independence

The Republic of Senegal, a country in West Africa, was among the first regions in the western part of the continent to be colonized by France during the colonial era. It became a launchpad for French armies towards neighboring countries and subsequently the capital of these colonies for decades before gaining its independence on April 4, 1960.

A Departure from Colonial History: Senegal's Democratic Distinction

However, this tragic tale of Western colonialism no longer defines Senegal. The nation has established a distinct political presence and, in recent years, has presented a unique democratic model in the region. Despite being situated in an environment known for military coups and unconstitutional changes, Senegal has not recorded any military coup in its history, despite being located among some of the continent's most coup-prone nations.

Islam and Muslims in Senegal: A Significant Presence

Amidst this political progress and distinguished democratic presence, it was essential to understand Islam and Muslims in this influential West African nation. Senegalese researcher Haroun Ba, a specialist in political science, shed light on this in an interview with Al-Mujtama magazine, discussing the history of Islam and Muslims in Senegal and highlighting key milestones in Islamic history and the pioneering figures who played a leading role in this regard.

The Introduction of Islam to Senegal

Haroun Ba began his discussion by stating that the history of Islam in Senegal is closely linked to the introduction of Islam to West Africa. He explained that the roots of Islam in Africa date back to the dawn of the final message during the time of the Prophet's mission and the subsequent migration of Muslims to the just King Negus (may Allah be pleased with him) seeking refuge for their faith from the harm of the disbelievers and the persecution of the Quraysh leaders.

Geographical Context of Senegal

Geographically, Senegal is located in West Africa, bordered by Mauritania to the north and northeast, Mali to the east, Guinea-Conakry, Guinea-Bissau, and Gambia to the south, and the Atlantic Ocean to the west.

The Expansion of Islam in West Africa

The Senegalese researcher clarified that the sphere of Islam in the African continent expanded over time with the conversion of African peoples and the entry of their kingdoms into the new religion in West Africa, starting with the Ghana Empire, the Tekrur region, and then the Almoravid state on both sides of the Sahara.

Early Spread of Islam in Senegal: Unclear but Certain

He added that it is difficult to trace the initial entry and spread of Islam in Senegal with precision up to the era of independence. There are periods where it is challenging to definitively determine how Islam expanded and spread throughout Senegal. However, what is certain is that Islam became a social reality in West Africa with the beginning of the fifth century Hijri. He further stated that while the exact date of Islam's arrival in Senegal may not be known, King Warjabi and the esteemed scholar Abdullah bin Yasin played prominent roles in the flourishing of the nascent Islamic movement in the country.

Prominent Political Presence of Muslims

In his discussion, he addressed the level of participation of Senegalese Muslims in the governance of the country, emphasizing their involvement across various segments in the administration and management of public affairs at different levels of government. Politics is not confined to one group over another, and the country has witnessed peaceful transitions of power on multiple occasions. It is worth noting that the religious establishment has played a significant role in society.

Religious Landmarks and Institutions

Senegal is known for its numerous mosques and those who oversee their affairs. He mentioned that among the prominent religious landmarks in the country are the Grand Mosque of Dakar, the Touba Mosque (capital of the Mouride brotherhood), the Khadimiyya Library, and the Massalikoul Jinaan mosque, in addition to the legacy of the sheikhs in terms of scholarly writings, prophetic eulogies, and ancient manuscripts.

Challenges Facing Islamic Propagation

Despite this bright history and the distinguished Islamic presence in Senegal, where Muslims constitute the majority of the population (approximately 94% Muslim, 5% Christian, and 1% other beliefs), challenges facing Islamic propagation remain a concern for scholars and those interested. Haroun Ba believes that these challenges lie in the pervasive influence of globalization on African peoples, the lack of alternative media content, the spread of materialistic values, and the threat to family values. He added that the field of Islamic propagation needs to qualify imams in response to societal changes, rationalize religious discourse in line with the comprehensive truths of Islam, and utilize religious institutions to advance the country.

Sufism, Da'wah (Propagation), and Education

In his interview with Al-Mujtama magazine, Haroun Ba stated that Sufism, Da'wah, and education have connections and intersections in the history of Senegal. He pointed out that Senegalese Muslims are known for their Sufism, with the Qadiriyya order being one of the oldest Sufi orders established in the country, followed by the Tijaniyya and the Mouride orders, which was founded by Sheikh Ahmad Bamba.

The Role of Sufi Orders

He added that these Sufi groups played significant roles in Da'wah, education, and upbringing, confronted colonialism, and preserved national and religious identity. He further stated that the directives of the Sufi leadership are still obeyed, and their word is influential in politics, economics, and society in Senegal.

Prominent Muslim Figures and the Spread of Education

Haroun Ba also highlighted the most prominent Muslim figures, imams, and scholars in Senegal, explaining that among the notable Sufi figures are Sheikh al-Hajj Umar al-Futi, then al-Hajj Malik Sy, then Sheikh Ahmad Bamba, and Sheikh Ibrahim Niass al-Kawlakhi. He noted that Senegalese people speak many local languages, the most famous of which are Wolof, Pulaar, Serer, and Soninke, although French is the "language of administration."

Efforts in Arabic and Islamic Education

He continued that despite Senegal being a French colony deeply immersed in French culture, efforts to spread Arabic and Islamic education did not cease and are now significantly increasing, whether through the efforts of successive governments or continuous grassroots initiatives, as evident in the establishment of schools, educational institutions, and private universities.

Senegal's Leadership in Islamic Affairs

He added that what many do not know is that Senegal, in the person of its president, holds the presidency of the Standing Committee for Information and Cultural Affairs (COMIAC), a committee affiliated with the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). He emphasized that the Senegalese capital, Dakar, hosted two Islamic summits: the first during the era of President Abdou Diouf in 1412 AH - 1991 CE for the Organization of the Islamic Conference, and the second during the era of Abdoulaye Wade in 1429 AH - 2008 CE with the Organization of Islamic Cooperation.