New Islamic Association in Burkina Faso Aims to Foster Interreligious Dialogue

OUAGADOUGOU, Burkina Faso — The Islamic community in Burkina Faso witnessed the introduction of a new association, Tawfiq Al Fayda Tidjannia (TFT), on Saturday, January 13, 2024. With a name meaning “luck,” the association aims to encourage interreligious and intercultural dialogue in the country, particularly amidst challenging security conditions.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the Secretary General of the TFT Board of Directors, the association’s primary goal is to enhance interreligious and intercultural dialogue within Burkina Faso. He emphasized the organization’s commitment to contributing to the country’s sustainable development through promoting peace and social cohesion.

Mr. Ouattara further elaborated on TFT’s mission, stating that in the face of security and humanitarian challenges, society must actively engage in the spiritual, moral, and cultural education of the youth, who are pivotal to the nation’s future. He highlighted that Muslims are encouraged to organize prayers for the stability of Burkina Faso as part of this mission.

The TFT aims to promote Islam, foster social cohesion, and encourage solidarity among its members. Additionally, the organization plans to conduct peace prayers not only in Burkina Faso but also in the broader sub-region. Ouattara underscored the importance of collaboration from all sectors to achieve these objectives, emphasizing the benefit to the populations.

Established in 2023, TFT is a non-profit, unitarian association focused on the practice of Islam in Burkina Faso. It represents a citizen-led effort to address the challenges faced by the country and seeks to play a significant role in fostering a peaceful and cohesive society.