World Bulletin / News Desk

A historic island off the coast of Senegal is hoping that Turkey will help to restore its only mosque.

The mosque, built in 1822, one of the country's oldest buildings, is the only place of worship on the tiny island, which lies off the coast of the capital Dakar, and is known for its centuries-long role in the Atlantic slave trade.

Residents of the island want the historic mosque restored with Turkish help, as currently it is insufficient to meet local Muslims’ needs.

According to a 2013 census, the island has some 1,700 residents, the vast majority of them Muslim.

They also want the historic building to become one of the symbols of the island.