The Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs in Cameroon, known as Cosaic, was established on August 3, 2024, in Yaoundé, the capital city of Cameroon. The council was formed by a coalition of around a dozen Islamic associations, including two created by presidential decree, traditional leaders, imams, preachers, and men and women from across the country.
One of the primary roles of Cosaic is to take over from the Lunar Crescent Commission, which was responsible for announcing important Muslim holidays such as Ramadan and Tabaski. The new council has a comprehensive mandate, and according to Professor Souley Mane, the president of the technical organization committee, Cosaic aims to serve as a platform for exchange, consultation, and concerted action.
The establishment of Cosaic marks a significant milestone for Cameroon's Muslim community, which has long sought a unified and organized structure to promote its interests and development. The council's creation is seen as a crucial step towards achieving this goal, and it is expected to play a key role in promoting harmony and sustainable development within the community.
During the constitutive general assembly, the council's statutes were adopted, and a bureau was elected to oversee its operations. Dr. Abdoulkarim Abbo Yerima was elected as the council's head, with a three-year mandate that can be renewed once. He will be assisted by Feissal Mounir Nsangou, who will serve as his deputy.
The Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs in Cameroon is expected to have a significant impact on the country's Muslim community, which has been seeking greater representation and organization. The council's establishment is seen as a positive development, and it is hoped that it will help promote greater unity and cooperation within the community.
Cosaic's mandate includes promoting the interests of Cameroon's Muslim community, fostering greater understanding and cooperation between different faith groups, and contributing to the country's overall development. The council is also expected to play a role in promoting Islamic education and cultural heritage.
The establishment of Cosaic has been widely welcomed by Cameroon's Muslim community, which sees it as a major achievement. The council's success will depend on its ability to effectively represent the interests of the community and promote greater unity and cooperation.
Key points
- The Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs in Cameroon was established on August 3, 2024, to unite and organize the country's Muslim community.
- Cosaic will take over from the Lunar Crescent Commission, which was responsible for announcing important Muslim holidays.
- The council's establishment marks a significant milestone for Cameroon's Muslim community, which has long sought a unified and organized structure.
