When you think of Senegal, you might think of famous Muslim athletes like Sadio Mané, but how did Islam spread to Senegal?

Islam has been in Senegal for more than 1000 years and began through the Kingdom of Takrur. People first started to convert as early as 850 through interaction with Muslim traders from the North. But Islam became more widespread, when War Jabi, the 11th-century King of Takrur converted in the 1030s and introduced Islamic laws.

Moving from France, Belgium, Germany, and the UK teams before landing in Istanbul Başakşehir, Senegalese devout Muslim footballer Demba Ba says he is very happy to play in a Muslim-majority country where he has freedom to fulfill his religious obligations, Daily Sabah reported on July 17.

“I am a Muslim and work in a Muslim country. I’m very happy to fulfill my religious obligations. Turkey provides religious freedom. I can go to the mosque to pray whenever I want,” the Senegalese Muslim player expressed.