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Rabat – On the streets of Conakry and in the neighborhoods of Abidjan, Morocco’s presence is quietly but assertively making itself felt through the towering minarets of the newly inaugurated Mohammed VI Mosques.
These architectural marvels not only signify Morocco’s growing influence in West Africa but also highlight the intricate web of religious diplomacy the country has successfully woven across the continent.
Constructed to exacting Moroccan architectural standards under the auspices of King Mohammed VI, these mosques stand not merely as places of worship but as symbols of Morocco’s commitment to fostering a moderate and tolerant form of Islam.
In the Treichville neighborhood of Abidjan, the Mohammed Mosque is now the largest in the West African country, covering an area of 25,000 square meters and serving a Muslim population that makes up 40% of the Ivorian population.
Similarly, in Guinea, where the recently inaugurated mosque boasts a capacity of over 3,000 worshippers across its sprawling one-hectare area, Moroccan influence seamlessly blends with local culture and faith.
Guinean Prime Minister BAH Oury aptly captured the significance of the mosque, describing it as “symbol of the solidity and solidarity of the ties between Morocco and Guinea.”
These recent additions join a burgeoning list of Moroccan-funded mosques spanning Chad, Tanzania, Ivory Coast, and Mauritania, collectively representing an investment exceeding $40 million.
At first glance, the construction of mosques may seem like a straightforward display of religious patronage.
However, beyond the architectural grandeur lies a strategic initiative aimed at promoting Morocco’s interpretation of Islam as a counterbalance to the extremist ideologies that have gained traction in parts of Africa.
A multifaceted approach
Central to the success of Morocco’s African diplomacy is the person of King Mohammed VI. The monarch’s well-documented commitment to continental stability, prosperity and his dual role at home as head of state and “Commander of the Faithful” affords him significant influence over religious affairs both domestically and abroad.
Through institutions like the Mohammed VI Institute, Morocco has positioned itself as a champion of moderate Islam, seeking to combat the shadows of obscurantism with the light of tolerance and enlightenment.
The strategic deployment of religious outreach serves not only to bolster Morocco’s influence but also to cultivate a narrative of unity and collaboration.
By funding mosques and educational initiatives, Morocco seeks to foster goodwill and strengthen ties with African nations, transcending mere economic or political interests.
The Mohammed VI Foundation for African Ulemas, established in 2015, epitomizes Morocco’s long-term vision for religious diplomacy on the continent. In encouraging collaboration among scholars from diverse backgrounds, the foundation seeks to promote a tolerant and inclusive form of Islam that can serve as a bulwark against extremism.
The moroccan path
At the heart of Morocco’s diplomatic endeavors lies its official, state-supported brand of Islam. This approach combines adherence to the Sunni Maliki legal tradition, the Ash’ari theological school, and support of Sufism.
Notably, the King’s recognition as the highest religious authority in Morocco has historically resonated in parts of Mauritania, Senegal, and Mali. Morocco’s Islam, viewed as more indigenous than Wahhabism, has garnered credibility by contributing to resolving conflicts of global concern.
The Tijaniyya, the largest Sufi brotherhood in Africa, plays a pivotal role in Morocco’s religious diplomacy. While in Africa the Tijaniyya is a mass movement, in Morocco it’s evolved into an exclusive club associated with the royal family.
The king’s preference for the brotherhood has positioned Morocco as its protector, thus enhancing its influence over powerful sub-Saharan Sufis. Morocco’s religious diplomacy thus extends beyond Senegal, penetrating French-speaking Guinea, Côte d’Ivoire, and other parts of West and Central Africa.
Through personal relationships with influential Tijani leaders, King Mohammed VI has solidified Morocco’s foothold in African Muslim communities, leveraging mosques, educational initiatives, and socio-economic projects to promote Moroccan interests.
To further consolidate its influence, Morocco established in 2014 the Mohammed VI Institute for the Training of Imams, Morchidines, and Morchidates, which provides religious and practical education to African Muslims.
Additionally, Morocco has signed numerous agreements on faith matters with African states and launched a significant fund for mosque construction and rehabilitation.
Cultural exchange and religious moderation
Morocco’s emphasis on interfaith dialogue has facilitated greater understanding and cooperation among diverse religious communities in Africa.
By convening conferences, seminars, and cultural exchanges, Morocco has fostered an environment of mutual respect and tolerance, thereby contributing to peace and stability.
The promotion of religious moderation stands as a hallmark of Morocco’s approach.
Sharing its own experiences in countering radicalization and promoting a moderate interpretation of Islam, Morocco has assisted other African nations in their efforts to combat extremism and uphold values of tolerance and coexistence.
Beyond ideological fronts, Morocco’s religious diplomacy is often accompanied by humanitarian aid and development initiatives.
By investing in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and poverty alleviation programs, Morocco has tangibly improved the socio-economic conditions of communities across Africa, bolstering stability and fostering goodwill.
Cultural exchange and educational initiatives serve as additional pillars of Morocco’s religious diplomacy in Africa. Through initiatives that highlight the continent’s rich Islamic heritage, Morocco promotes cultural understanding and strengthens ties between nations.
Scholarships for African students to study at the Mohammed VI Foundation for African Ulemas further deepen these bonds.
Morocco’s religious diplomacy extends its diplomatic influence throughout Africa. By engaging with African countries on religious matters, the country is cementing its regional diplomatic depth and asserting itself as a key player in regional affairs.
This increased influence allows Morocco to advance its interests on various political, economic, and security fronts.
