"Chaotic construction" around the Bakhiya cemetery: A grandson of Mame Maodo raises the alarm

“There is total chaos due to the ‘cantinization’ of makeshift markets around the Bakhiya cemetery in Tivaouane, especially with the noise and music. It shows a lack of respect for all the Moukhadams, disciples, and other Muslims who rest in this cemetery.” This warning comes from Serigne Abdoul Aziz Diop, grandson of El-Hadji Malick Sy (may God be pleased with him) and a member of religious civil society.

As Mawlid-Al-Nabi approaches, the Bakhiya cemetery in Tivaouane, a major site of pilgrimage and contemplation, is preparing to welcome thousands of faithful who come to pay homage to the great figures of the Tijaniyya order. Founded at the instigation of Seydi El Hadji Malick Sy, this historically significant place holds a special place in the religious heritage of the city of Maodo.

However, Moulage Dabaakh Diop expressed deep concern about "the chaotic occupation and proliferation of makeshift markets around the Bakhiya cemetery, which threaten the tranquility of this sacred place of remembrance because they are exacerbated by noise pollution and music inappropriate for the sanctity of the space."

Among the problems observed is the congestion of the surrounding area, with the illegal installation of structures and shoddy shops reducing the passageway. Not to mention the noise pollution, with the playing of music and other untimely noises disturbing the peace of the deceased and the pilgrims' contemplation. It's a kind of breach of decorum. The spiritual guide denounces the loss of solemnity due to the immediate proximity of unregulated commercial activity zones.

A formal ban on informal commerce encroaching on public space around the burial site is among the proposed interventions, as is the strict enforcement of regulations against daytime and nighttime noise in residential and sacred areas. There is also the action of law enforcement, with the involvement of the Tivaouane Urban Police Station, to clear adjacent public spaces.