Darou Mouhty, Senegal – senegal’s government is investing in it’s significant religious tourism sector with the Friday opening of a modernized guesthouse in the city of Darou Mouhty. The new facility, boasting over 20 rooms and conference spaces, is part of a national initiative responding to increasing pilgrimage numbers and the need for improved infrastructure to host visiting dignitaries and followers of the Mouride branch of Sufism. The inauguration precedes upcoming commemorations marking a pivotal moment in the region’s spiritual history – the return of Cheikh Ahmadou Bamba from exile.
Darou Mouhty, Senegal – A newly renovated guesthouse has opened in the Senegalese religious city of Darou Mouhty, part of a national program to modernize and improve facilities in important spiritual centers. The opening, which took place Friday, precedes commemorations marking the return of Cheikh Ahmadou Bamba from exile and his reunion with his brother, Mame Thierno Ibrahima Faty Mbacké.
The guesthouse’s inauguration is a key component of Senegal’s National Program for the Development and Modernization of Religious Cities (Pnamvr), according to Minister of Urban Planning, Territorial Collectivities, and Land Management, Moussa Bala Fofana. He stated the project was initiated in response to requests from local administrative and religious leaders who sought upgrades to accommodate dignitaries during major events.
Fofana explained that the first phase of construction involved a complete renovation of the two-story building, resulting in over 20 rooms, including two suites and two large reception areas designed for religious conferences and gatherings with the khalife of Darou Mouhty. The modernization efforts aim to support these cities with essential infrastructure, recognizing spirituality as a vital element in fostering engaged citizens committed to national development.
The opening of the Darou Mouhty guesthouse follows a similar inauguration in Porokhane last week, signaling a broader government initiative to modernize religious cities across the country. This move underscores the government’s recognition of the growing importance of these centers.
Senegal is now more than 50% urbanized, with a significant portion of that growth concentrated around religious sites, Fofana noted. He argued that supporting these cities is now a necessity for the government, justifying the importance of the Pnamvr program.
Serigne Bassirou Mbacké Abdou Khoudoss, spokesperson for Darou Mouhty, expressed gratitude for the completed infrastructure. He acknowledged the project was initially launched under the previous administration of Macky Sall, but emphasized the continuity of the state, with the current government taking responsibility for finishing the work. “I thank the President of the Republic and the Prime Minister for their diligence,” he said.
Looking ahead, Mbacké Abdou Khoudoss revealed the original plan included the construction of a mosque and an esplanade. The mosque was intended to be built on the site where Mame Thierno Birahim Mbacké paused during the founding of Darou Mouhty, as advised by Serigne Touba, and would serve as a prayer space for visitors. The esplanade was envisioned as a venue for official ceremonies. He expressed confidence that the remaining aspects of the project will be completed.
Birane DIOP (Correspondent)
