Sahel Region Muslims Pray for Peace During Tabaski Festival

Sahel: Muslim worshippers in the Sahel region commemorated Eid al-Adha, or the feast of Tabaski, on Friday, June 6, 2025, symbolizing obedience to God and the perpetuation of the act of Abraham. Like their counterparts across Burkina Faso, the faithful in the Sahel region marked the occasion with traditional sacrifices and prayers.According to Burkina Information Agency, in Dori, the capital of the Sahel region, the celebrations took place in various public venues, including the provincial ground, Dori A school grounds, and Wendou grounds. At the provincial ground, Imam Yaya Mamoudou Cissé led the ritual in the presence of regional dignitaries, including the governor of the Sahel region, Abdoul Karim Zongo, and the apostolic administrator of Dori, Monsignor Théophile Naré.Imam Cissé conducted two units of prayer, known as rakat, and delivered a sermon emphasizing the festival's significance and the qualities of the animals to be sacrificed. He offered prayers for peace and social cohesion in Burkina Faso and a productive rainy season. Furthermore, he wished for the peaceful repose of those who had fallen in battle.Governor Abdoul Karim Zongo expressed his hope for divine support for the defense and security forces (FDS) and volunteers for the defense of the homeland (VDP) dedicated to restoring the nation's territorial integrity. He urged the community to support the defense and security forces to swiftly end insecurity and return to normalcy.Monsignor Théophile Naré shared his joy at participating in the celebrations alongside Muslims, highlighting his presence as a sign of communion and solidarity, emphasizing the shared worship of the same God by both religions.Elhadj Ousmane Birabia, a worshipper at the provincial ground, mentioned he prayed for social cohesion and the restoration of peace in Burkina Faso.