Khalifa Kounta recounts the origin of his name linked to Serigne Babacar Sy
Khadre spokesperson Khalifa Kounta explained that his name refers to Serigne Babacar Sy, a former general khalife of the Tidianes. Born in Tivaouane, he says he owes the name to his grandmother, Sokha Marième Kounta, the wife of Serigne Babacar Sy.
Khalifa Kounta, spokesperson for the Khadres, recounted the family history behind the name of Serigne Babacar Sy that was given to him. In an interview with Le Soleil, relayed by Senego, he said he was born in Tivaouane.
According to his account, his grandmother, Sokha Marième Kounta, was the wife of Serigne Babacar Sy, a former general khalife of the Tidianes. At his birth, she is said to have asked his father, Serigne Abdoulaye Kounta, to give the child her husband’s name.
A family memory
Khalifa Kounta explained that the decision was intended to preserve the memory of Serigne Babacar Sy through him. He said that his grandmother had expressed a particular attachment to him from the time of his birth in Serigne Babacar Sy’s home.
According to him, this origin explains the name “Cheikhal Khalifa”, by which he is also known.
On the eve of the Ndiassane Gamou
The account comes on the eve of the Ndiassane Gamou, scheduled for Tuesday, September 1, 2026. The interview also mentions Serigne Sidy Mahtar Kounta, presented as the current general khalife of the Khadre community.
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