By Alpha Jallow in Dakar
The religious guide of Bambilor in the region of Dakar was recently the guest of the prestigious Diplomatic Academy in Vienna,Austria,where he advocates for an open faith and a universal dialogue.
The Religious Guide and Kaliph of Bambilor tour Amadou Ba, concluded his European tour at the Diplomatic Academy of Vienna, Austria, with a masterclass conference on the theme: “Religious Diplomacy: A Bridge Between Peoples and Consciences.”
In front of a large audience composed of diplomats, academics, and students, the Senegalese spiritual guide made a vibrant call for a faith that is “open, listens, welcomes, and connects.”
A message of gratitude and mutual respect
From the outset of his speech, the Khalifa made a point of acknowledging the decisive role played by Mrs. Ursula Fahringer, the Austrian ambassador to Senegal, in the preparation of this meeting, as well as that of Mr. Martin Eichtinger, the director of the Diplomatic Academy, for his welcome and moderation.
“Excellency, your availability, your rigour, and your commitment to dialogue between cultures and religions have been decisive,” Thierno Amadou Ba declared,emphasising that Austria, with its tradition of neutrality and listening, remains a privileged crossroads for reflection and cooperation among peoples.
The Khaliphthen delivered a message imbued with humanism and spirituality: “Faith should not divide, but unite.’I take my pilgrim’s staff to carry the message of peace wherever dialogue is lacking, he opined’
In a world marked, according to him, by uncertainty, fractures, and fear, Thierno Amadou Ba advocated for religious diplomacy capable of complementing state diplomacy: “Never has our humanity had so many technical means at its disposal, and yet it seems more vulnerable than ever. Armed conflicts, forced migrations, the rise of racism, and religious intolerance reflect a crisis that goes beyond politics: it is a spiritual crisis.
Religious diplomacy as a moral compass
Faced with this situation, the Khaliph believes that world peace cannot be built without a moral and spiritual dimension: “How can we talk about peace without mentioning ethics?” How can we build lasting bridges without appealing to human conscience?
Recognised by the Vatican as a “model of spiritual diplomacy,” the guide of Bambilor recalled that Senegal has long embodied an exemplary religious coexistence, citing several historical episodes where faith served as mediation.
“The Prophet (PBUH) established a pact in Medina with the Jews and Christians, guaranteeing their freedom and security.” The Christian King Negus of Ethiopia offered refuge to the early Muslims. The Treaty of Hudaybiyya proved that dialogue can be stronger than confrontation. These examples show that faith, when enlightened, becomes a true school of diplomacy and respect,” he recalled.
A plea for a new moral governance
The conference concluded with an emotional exchange between the Khaliph, Mrs. Binta Ndiaye, president of the Network of Women Leaders around Thierno (REFLET), and Mr. Martin Eichtinger, director of the Diplomatic Academy.
In his closing remarks, Thierno Amadou Ba paid tribute to all those who work for dialogue and reconciliation, particularly women and young people, “the living conscience of our societies.”
“May this meeting in Vienna mark a turning point towards a new moral governance of world peace, where faith and reason walk together, not to dominate, but to serve humanity.” We are a family. This house of dialogue, it is up to us to maintain it. The mission is heavy, but together, we will succeed,” he concluded to thunderous applause.
