Strengthening Moroccan-African Ties Through Sufi Brotherhoods: Insights from Marrakech Conference

In a recent conference held in Marrakech, Ahmed Toufiq, the Minister of Habous and Islamic Affairs, highlighted the historical and ongoing contributions of Sufi brotherhoods to the enhancement of Moroccan-African relations. This gathering, themed “Ahmed Baba of Timbuktu: A Model of Civilizational Diplomacy in West Africa,” marked a new chapter in these intercontinental ties.

Toufiq underscored that the deep-rooted connection between Morocco and Africa is based on mutual respect for religious constants amid foreign interventions and a commitment to rational and consensual economic cooperation. This collaboration is evidenced by the integration of African students into Moroccan universities and the Mohammed VI Institute for the Training of Imams. Additionally, the Mohammed VI Foundation for African Ulemas exemplifies Morocco’s dedication to nurturing these bonds.

The minister also emphasized the significant impact of Ahmed Baba of Timbuktu on Moroccan intellectual life. Baba’s legacy is honored through dedicated projects, including the restoration of his residence near the Chorafa Mosque and a special pavilion in the Religious Life Museum in Riad Laârous, Marrakech.

Salem Ben Mohamed El Malek, Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), praised Ahmed Baba as a symbol of profound civilizational exchange. El Malek highlighted the importance of Baba's extensive writings and his influential gatherings that fostered scientific and literary discourse.

Speakers at the event lauded the historical and scholarly contributions of Baba and the enduring connections between Morocco and African nations, maintained and strengthened by the Alaouite Sultans and Kings. Baba’s works remain critical references for researchers and historians.

The conference, organized by ICESCO’s Center for Civilizational Dialogue as part of the “Marrakech, Capital of Islamic World Culture for 2024” event, aimed to spotlight the efforts of African scholars in promoting Islamic culture and renewing its cultural resources. It reaffirmed the crucial role of knowledge in fostering tolerance, generosity, and openness as vital components of civilizational progress.

Partnered with Cadi Ayyad University, the event focused on the concept of “civilizational diplomacy,” recognizing the significant role of scientific and cultural exchanges. It celebrated Ahmed Baba’s contributions to bridging socio-scientific gaps between the Sahel and Sahara regions and his dedication to reinforcing religious constants and civilizational values.