Each year, specifically on 18 Safar (lunar month), some four million Muslims converge on the holy city to celebrate one of the most important religious events in Senegal.
Founded by Sheikh Ahmadou Bamba (1853-1927), Mouridism is the philosophy of a powerful brotherhood with the central place it gives to labour and solidarity among believers.
The followers of this brotherhood are called Mourides and they are the most influential brotherhood politically and economically in Senegal.
Born in Mbacké in the ancient empire of Baol, Sheikh Ahmadou Bamba Mbacke is a Senegalese Sufi who faced the French coloniser, drawing on non-violence advocated by Islam.
Deported from 1895 to 1902 in Gabon and Mauritania from 1903 to 1907 by the French colonisers, the holy man finally returned to Senegal where he was put under house arrest.
Far from being seen as a test, these exiles of Cheikh Ahmadou Bamba are considered by the Mouride as a response to the call of Allah for service to Islam.
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