TOKYO-2019 Editorial / Political

The Sufi Brotherhoods of Senegal

  • Prize
    Silver in Editorial/Political
  • Photographer
    Christian Bobst
  • Technical Info
    Nikon D850, Nikkor 24 - 70 2.8 Vr
  • Photo Date
    2018

In Senegal, 95 percent of Muslims belong to a Sufi brotherhood, more than in any Muslim population in the world. The West African country has never experienced an attack in todays age of international terror - in contrast to its neighbouring countries like Mali or Mauretania. This photo story emphasizes on how the Sufi Brotherhoods and their leaders shape the Senegalese society and how they preserve their power and wealth, but also peace and stability in the country by promoting a tolerant and deeply spiritual form of Islam instead of dogmatic rules and oppression.