Joseph Badji appointed Bishop of Kolda

Monseigneur Joseph Francis Janvier Badji has officially succeeded Monseigneur Jean-Pierre Bassène as the Bishop of the Kolda diocese in Senegal. The transition follows the acceptance by Pope Leo XIV of Mgr Bassène’s resignation, which was submitted upon reaching the mandatory retirement age of 75 in accordance with Canon Law.

Mgr Badji, who previously served as the coadjutor bishop of the diocese since April 11, 2026, assumes full pastoral governance and all associated rights and obligations with immediate effect.

A solemn celebration to officially mark the beginning of Mgr Badji’s ministry is scheduled for December 12, 2026, at the Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Cathedral in Kolda.