A major clearing operation is set to begin March 31 in Touba, Senegal, targeting unauthorized structures obstructing key thoroughfares in the city’s main market, Ocass. The move comes after announcements from both the mayor and the khalife général of the Mouride brotherhood, signaling broad support for the initiative.
The effort aims to free up congested areas within the Ocass market to improve pedestrian and vehicle flow. Mayor Abdou Lahad Ka had previously given vendors occupying public spaces until the end of March to vacate the area.
Serigne Bassirou Mbacké Abdou Khadre, a spokesperson for the Mouride community, urged members of the Baye Fall to support the municipal effort. He emphasized that Touba is the property of Cheikh Ahmadou Bamba and under the authority of its current khalife, Serigne Mountakha Mbacké.
According to the spokesperson, vendors have been asked to comply with the khalife’s recommendation. “If Serigne Mountakha wanted its demolition, we would do it,” he stated, explaining that the goal is to improve conditions within the market and prevent incidents like fires.
The clearing operation will likewise extend to areas surrounding the Great Mosque of Touba. Residents occupying spaces in front of the residences of Serigne Touba’s sons have also been asked to leave.
The announcement was made in the presence of the mayor of Touba and members of the Baye Fall community. Serigne Saliou Fall, representing the khalife of the Baye Fall, assured Serigne Bassirou Mbacké Abdou Khadre, “The entire family of Mame Cheikh Ibrahima Fall is mobilized. The wishes of Serigne Touba will be realized, whatever the cost.”
The Mouride spokesperson also used the occasion to reiterate the khalife’s call for the Baye Fall to uphold the sanctity of Touba. This move underscores the importance of religious and community leadership in shaping urban development in the region.
