Bamako: 156 imams strengthen their knowledge of the Quran, living together and the responsible use of social networks: One hundred and fifty-six imams from the rural commune of Saaba and surrounding areas participated in a capacity-building session on Quranic teachings, living together in harmony, and social cohesion. Initiated by Dr. Cheikh Moustapha Ou©draogo, the training, which began on June 1, concluded this Wednesday at the central mosque of Saaba in the presence of Muslim worshippers and local authorities.

According to Burkina Information Agency, this initiative aims to promote sermons based on the values ??of peace, tolerance, and social cohesion, while preventing misunderstandings and tensions that can arise in mosques.

For one of the beneficiaries, Imam Issaka Kabor©, this training meets a real need for religious leaders. 'We have been waiting for this training for a long time. Every Friday, we are called upon to preach to the faithful. Without regular reinforcement of our knowledge, we sometimes risk misinterpreting certain teachings, which can be a source of division or disagreement in our mosques,' he said. He also indicated that the training addressed best practices related to the use of social media by religious leaders.

The promoter of the initiative, Dr. Cheikh Moustapha Ou©draogo, explained that the participants were equipped on several themes, including communication adapted to different social strata, the values ??of living together as well as the fundamental principles of the Quran. "In several mosques, I have observed that many imams needed support on certain issues related to living together and a proper understanding of Quranic verses," he stressed. According to him, religious leaders must adapt their messages to the context while remaining faithful to the teachings of Islam. 'Every Imam must preach in accordance with the teachings of the Quran and taking into account the realities of his environment. Sermons should never be a source of unrest in society,' he stated.

The closing ceremony also featured an awareness session on the responsible use of social media, led by a team from the Central Brigade for Combating Cybercrime (BCLCC), headed by Police Lieutenant Hamad© Sawadogo. "We came to remind the faithful that all activity carried out on social networks is regulated by law. The messages published engage the responsibility of their authors," he said. Lieutenant Sawadogo invited religious leaders to take ownership of the legal provisions in force in order to spread messages promoting peace and social cohesion. "I encourage imams to promote messages of peace, tolerance and brotherhood among the population," he added.

Local authorities, led by the President of the Special Delegation (PDS) of Saaba, Adolphe Athanase Thiombiano, took part in the closing ceremony. The PDS welcomed the initiative and expressed its hope for its continuation. It also urged the beneficiaries to demonstrate responsibility and professionalism in conveying religious messages to their congregations.