During a 72-hour Islamic weekend held from March 6th to 8th in the heart of the Medina district, the Medina Na SET, Medina Na SEL collective advocated for the official inclusion of March 7th in the national calendar to honor the memory of the heroines of Nder. The event also highlighted the central role of women and children in transmitting religious and social values.

The day of March 7 was marked by the opening of the exhibition "Nder in flames", dedicated to the historical sacrifice of the women of Nder in 1820.

“In this blessed month of Ramadan and Lent, a month of penance, forgiveness, and charity, we decided to organize a weekend dedicated to spreading the good word and sharing the iftar meal. But above all, we wanted to pay a vibrant tribute to the women of Nder who, on March 7, 1820, preferred to immolate themselves rather than suffer captivity. It is a powerful symbol of dignity and female courage,” explains Bakary Kamara, president of the collective.

Through this initiative, the collective, created in 2023 by residents and well-meaning individuals from the neighborhood, intends to promote spiritual, educational and cultural values among the population while supporting advocacy for the official recognition of this date.

“We strongly desire that March 7th be included in the republican calendar, as this date is linked to our history and collective memory. March 8th is an international day, but March 7th is part of our national history. It is important to know it, to share it, and to embrace it because it resonates with the Senegalese people, particularly women. I call upon the President of the Republic, the Prime Minister, and the Minister of Family and Solidarity to institutionalize this date, as Dr. Fatou Sow Sarr wishes,” pleads Bakary Kamara.

Highlighting the fundamental role of women

Beyond this historical tribute, the event highlighted the fundamental role of women in society and in transmitting religious values to younger generations. Several women were recognized for their commitment and contributions to society. A conference was also held on the theme: "The Role of Women in Preserving Islam and in the Religious Education of Children."

“Women are the guardians of the temple. They play a central role in education and the transmission of religious values,” emphasizes Bakary Kamara.

Children also played a significant role in the program through the screening of an animated film recounting the life of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), allowing them to better understand his story and the values he embodied. An educational visit to the International Museum of the Prophet's Biography and Islamic Civilization is also planned to further enhance their knowledge of Islamic history and civilization.

According to this executive at a major local construction company, the involvement of women and children remains essential for building a stronger society and passing on the necessary values to future generations. "Women and children are the linchpin of our society's transformation. If we want to build an emerging Senegal, it is imperative to fully involve them," he believes.

To perpetuate memory and social action

This celebration is the first edition dedicated to March 7th, but the collective aims to perpetuate the initiative in order to keep alive the memory of the women of Nder and to strengthen educational and spiritual actions within the community.

Beyond this event, the collective aims to develop several community projects, including the creation of a social and educational action center, a library and media center, and the organization of forums dedicated to youth employment and training. These initiatives rely primarily on the personal commitment of the collective's president and the support of a few partners.

“I dedicate a portion of my resources to these activities with the support of some well-intentioned individuals and partners. Our approach is above all patriotic and selfless,” concludes Bakary Kamara.