ISLAM IN GHANA

Ghana… The land of gold… The country of golden-hearted people…

A nation where Muslims, Christians, and followers of indigenous beliefs live together in peace…

The Republic of Ghana is located in the western part of the African continent. The largest city and capital of the country is Accra. It gained independence from the United Kingdom on March 6, 1957. According to 2022 data, the population is 32,402,710. Among this population, 70% are Christians, 25% are Muslims, 4% follow traditional African religions and 1% practice other religions. While there are numerous languages and dialects spoken in the country, the official language is English.

The birth and spread of Islam in Ghana

In the 13th century, the renowned Ashanti Empire in Ghana began to introduce Islam to its people when some Arab Muslims were appointed to the role of clerks for trade purposes.

The inhabitants of the Tamale region in northern Ghana learned about Islam from the Arab Muslims who visited the area approximately 750 years ago and subsequently accepted Islam. Under an ancient tree next to the Larabanga Mosque, these early Arab Muslims explained the principles of Islam to the local population, facilitating their conversion. As a result of the growing need for a place of worship, the Larabanga Mosque was constructed. Built in 1420, the Larabanga Mosque still remains standing and is open for worship. It is recognized as the first mosque built in Ghana.

Although the people of Ghana were introduced to Islam around the 13th century, the broader spread of Islam occurred in the 17th century. This expansion was primarily due to numerous Nigerian Muslim scholars who entered the country from the north to preach Islam. Through their efforts, Islam gradually spread from northern Ghana, reaching other parts of the country in successive waves.

The country is home to hundreds of mosques, both large and small. Local imams serve in these mosques and also provide Qur’anic education in nearby Qur’an schools, known locally as Makaranta. To date, no official or unofficial study has been conducted to determine the exact number of local mosques throughout the country.