Islam is one of the most widely practised religions in Africa, with a significant Muslim population spread across the continent. The historical spread of Islam in Africa dates back to the 7th century, following trade routes and conquests, with religion deeply influencing the culture, politics, and social structure of many African countries. Here, we explore the ten African countries with the highest number of Muslims.
1. Nigeria
Nigeria has the largest Muslim population in Africa, with an estimated 90-100 million Muslims, making up roughly 50% of the country’s population. Islam is predominantly practised in the northern part of the country, where states like Kano, Sokoto, and Borno have been centres of Islamic scholarship for centuries.
2. Egypt
Egypt is home to around 90 million Muslims, accounting for approximately 90% of the country’s population. As the seat of Al-Azhar University, one of the most prestigious centers of Islamic learning, Egypt plays a significant role in the religious and cultural life of the Muslim world.
3. Ethiopia
With a Muslim population of about 34 million, Ethiopia is one of the oldest centres of Islamic culture in Africa. Islam is the religion of nearly 34% of the population, primarily in the eastern region and parts of the capital, Addis Ababa.
4. Sudan
Sudan has approximately 32 million Muslims, representing over 90% of its population. The religion is a central part of Sudanese identity, with significant influence on the country’s laws and customs.
5. Algeria
Algeria has around 41 million Muslims, making up almost the entire population of the country (over 99%). Islam in Algeria is deeply interwoven with the nation’s history, particularly its resistance against French colonial rule, which was often framed in religious terms.
6. Morocco
Morocco’s Muslim population stands at around 37 million, which is also about 99% of the country’s population. The country is known for its moderate and tolerant interpretation of Islam, with the monarchy playing a key role in the religious life of the nation.
7. Tanzania
Tanzania has around 20 million Muslims, comprising roughly 34% of the population. Islam is especially prevalent in the coastal regions and on the islands of Zanzibar and Pemba, where it has been practised for centuries due to Arab and Persian influences.
8. Niger
Niger has a Muslim population of around 24 million, making up about 99% of the country’s population. Islam in Niger is largely Sufi-oriented, with a significant number of Muslims following the Tijaniyyah and Qadiriyyah orders.
9. Senegal
Senegal has about 17 million Muslims, representing around 96% of the population. The country is known for its vibrant Sufi orders, particularly the Mouride and Tijaniyyah, which play a significant role in the social and political life of Senegal.
10. Mali
Mali’s Muslim population is around 18 million, accounting for approximately 95% of the country’s population. Islam has been a dominant force in Mali for centuries, particularly during the reign of the Mali Empire, which was known for its Islamic scholarship and the famous city of Timbuktu.
These countries not only have large Muslim populations but also rich histories and cultures shaped by Islam.