Thousands of Malians gathered in Djenne this weekend to participate in the annual replastering of the Great Mosque, the world’s largest mud-brick building. This important ritual helps maintain the integrity of the historic structure, which has been on UNESCO’s World Heritage in Danger list since 2016.
The mosque, located in the center of Mali, has been threatened by conflict between various groups, including Islamist rebels and government forces. The annual replastering is crucial to prevent the building from falling into disrepair, especially before the start of the rainy season in June.
Despite the challenges facing Djenne, residents like Amadou Ampate Cisse remain committed to preserving their cultural heritage. Cisse emphasized the symbolic importance of the mosque’s maintenance, describing it as a symbol of peace that brings together people from all walks of life.
Traditionally, men and boys are responsible for applying the new layer of mud to the mosque, while women and girls fetch water from the nearby river to mix with clay. However, security concerns have threatened the annual event, with some people avoiding Djenne due to perceived insecurity.
Nevertheless, Moussa Moriba Diakité, head of Djenne’s cultural mission, stressed the importance of continuing the maintenance of the mosque at any cost. Despite the disappearance of the town’s tourism industry, preserving this cultural landmark remains a top priority for the community.
As Mali and its neighbors continue to battle insurgency and political instability, the annual replastering of the Great Mosque serves as a reminder of the resilience and determination of the people of Djenne to protect their heritage.