Serer victory over the Marabouts at the Battle of Fandane-Thiouthioune

Background. The battle was a religious war between the Serer people and Muslim Marabouts in 19th-century Senegal, with political and economic dimensions involving vendetta and empire-building. Fandane, Thiouthioune, and Somb were part of the pre-colonial Serer Kingdom of Sine. Prior to the battle, Marabout leader Maba Diakhou Bâ was influenced by Lat-Dior to launch a jihadist assault in Sine.

Prelude to Conflict. Lat-Dior proposed a jihad in Sine in 1867. The Marabouts surprised the Serer village of Mbin o Ngor in April 1867, causing significant damage before retreating. Following this incident, the Maad a Sinig sent a letter inviting Maba Diakhou Bâ to an open battle. Maba acquired arms in British Gambia before moving to Sine.

The Battle. On 18 July 1867, the Marabouts prevailed in the early hours, but the Serer army held firm. In the latter parts, the Marabouts were defeated. Maad a Sinig Kumba Ndoffene Famak was injured during the conflict. The Serer army included forces from various regions, including Somb, the south, north-east, and north.