Muslims & Mosques
Islam in DR Congo
Islam also has a presence in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), although it represents a minority religion compared to Christianity. The Muslim population in the DRC, primarily concentrated in the eastern parts of the country and in urban centers, constitutes around 10% of the total population.
The history of Islam in the DRC dates back centuries, with the arrival of Arab and Swahili traders along trade routes in the eastern regions. Over time, Islam spread and established communities, particularly among ethnic groups like the Swahili, Arabs, and some indigenous African communities.
In cities such as Kinshasa, Goma, and Lubumbashi, you’ll find mosques and Islamic cultural centers serving the Muslim community. Muslim communities engage in various religious practices, observe Islamic traditions, and celebrate important festivals such as Ramadan and Eid.
The Muslim population in the DRC includes both Sunni and Shia Muslims, with diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds contributing to the richness of Islamic traditions within the country.
Despite being a minority religion, Islam holds significance in the DRC’s religious and cultural landscape, contributing to the country’s diverse religious tapestry alongside Christianity and indigenous belief systems. Interfaith relations between Muslims and Christians in the DRC often reflect a spirit of tolerance and coexistence, contributing to the country’s cultural diversity and pluralism.