Joseph Badji succeeds Kolda bishop in Senegal
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Senego
Joseph Francis Janvier Badji has become diocesan bishop of Kolda after Pope Leo XIV accepted the resignation of 75-year-old Bishop Jean-Pierre Bassène. A celebration marking the official start of his ministry is scheduled for 12 December 2026 at Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Cathedral, APS reports.
Joseph Francis Janvier Badji has taken over as head of the Catholic Diocese of Kolda, Senegal, after Pope Leo XIV accepted the resignation of Bishop Jean-Pierre Bassène, who had reached the age of 75. The succession took effect immediately, according to Senego.
Joseph Badji was ordained coadjutor bishop on 11 April 2026 and had served in that role alongside Bishop Bassène. A solemn celebration marking the official start of his ministry is scheduled for 12 December 2026 at Kolda’s Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Cathedral, Senego reported.
The Apostolic Nunciature in Dakar called on the faithful and clergy to pay tribute to Bishop Bassène’s service and to support his successor through prayer. APS recalled that Bishop Bassène was appointed on 22 December 1999 by Pope John Paul II, when the Diocese of Kolda was established.
