The ten-day religious gathering is expected to end on April27th 2026 in the Senegalese town of Madina Gounass. Initiated over seven decades ago by the late Halifa General Alhagie Muhammad Saidou Ba, who is also the founder of Madina Gounass, the annual religious gathering continues to expand over time, attracting Muslims from near and far.
Since his demise, he was succeeded by his son, Alhagie Thierno Ahmad Tidian Ba who is now the current Halifa General of Madina Gounass, and continues to follow his father’s footsteps.
“Daakaa” as widely referred to, is highly regarded as a sacred and blessed place not only in Senegal but beyond. It is a period during which Muslim worshippers spend time to reflect and embrace unity, propagate oneness, following the teaching of the Holy Prophet, Muhammad S.A.W.
Meanwhile, the event also serves as a forum where Muslims are reminded of true purpose of their creation, thus calling on them to nurture and propagate the teachings of Muhammed SAW.
Declaring this year’s forum open, Thierno Ibnou Oumar Ba, a brother to the Halifa General speaking on his behalf, called on Muslims tounite as one and take advantage of the time seeking Allah’s blessings.
He thanked the government of Senegal for their efforts in providing security throughout the event.
Equally, the venerable religious scholar urged the youth to stay away from drugs, describing the ‘Daakaa’ a no-smoking zone.“We have zero tolerance for drug use.”
Speaking to our reporter via phone onMonday, 20th April 2026, Alhagie Thierno Sadou Dia, a resident of Madina Gounass and a close relative of the Khalifa General, confirmed that the annual religious gathering has started with thousands of worshippers from across the world.
He explained that with the official start of this year’s event, they are expecting thousands of Muslims from all over the globe.
“We are offering prayers for peace and stability in our beloved countries - The Gambia, Senegal and to the rest of the globe,” he said.
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