Islam is the major religion in many African countries, especially in the north of the continent. In Comoros, Libya, Western Sahara, at least 99 percent of the population was Muslim as of 202. These were the highest percentages on the continent. However, also in many other African nations, the majority of the population was Muslim. In Egypt, for instance, Islam was the religion of 79 percent of the people. Islam and other religions in Africa Africa accounts for an important share of the world’s Muslim population. As of 2019, 16 percent of the Muslims worldwide lived in Sub-Saharan Africa, while 20 percent of them lived in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Together with Christianity, Islam is the most common religious affiliation in Africa, followed by several traditional African religions. Although to a smaller extent, numerous other religions are practiced on the continent: these include Judaism, the Baha’i Faith, Hinduism, and Buddhism. Number of Muslims worldwide Islam is one of the most widespread religions in the world. There are approximately 1.9 billion Muslims globally, with the largest Muslim communities living in the Asia-Pacific region. Specifically, Indonesia hosts the highest number of Muslims worldwide, amounting to over 200 million, followed by India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. Islam is also present in Europe and America. The largest Islamic communities in Europe are in France (5.72 million), Germany (4.95 million), and the United Kingdom (4.13 million). In the United States, there is an estimated number of around 3.45 million Muslims.

In 2024, Nigeria had the largest Muslim population in Africa, with around 105 million people who belonged to an Islamic denomination. Egypt and Algeria followed with 90.4 million and 39.4 million Muslims, respectively. Muslims have a significant presence in Africa, with an estimated 50 percent of the continent's population identifying as Muslim. The spread of Islam in Africa began in the 7th century with the arrival of Arab traders, and it continued through Islamic scholars and missionaries.

The average for 2013 based on 46 countries was 43.9 percent. The highest value was in Algeria: 100 percent and the lowest value was in Angola: 0 percent. The indicator is available from 1960 to 2013. Below is a chart for all countries where data are available.

In 2024, Nigeria accounted for 7.08 percent of the global Muslim population, the highest share among African countries. Egypt and Algeria followed, with shares of 6.12 percent and 2.67 percent, respectively. Islam has a significant presence in Africa, with an estimated 50 percent of the continent's population identifying as Muslim. The spread of Islam in Africa began in the 7th century with the arrival of Arab traders, and later continued through Islamic scholars and missionaries.

Christianity is the major religion in numerous African countries. As of 2024, around 96 percent of the population of Zambia was Christian, representing the highest percentage on the continent. Seychelles and Rwanda followed with roughly 95 percent and 94 percent of the population being Christian, respectively. While these countries present the highest percentages, Christianity was also prevalent in many other African nations. For instance, in South Africa, Christianity was the religion of nearly 85 percent of the people, while the share corresponded to 71 percent in Ghana. Religious variations across Africa Christianity and Islam are the most practiced religions in Africa. Christian adherents are prevalent below the Sahara, while North Africa is predominantly Muslim. In 2020, Christians accounted for around 60 percent of the Sub-Saharan African population, followed by Muslims with a share of roughly 30 percent. In absolute terms, there were approximately 650 million Christians in the region, a number forecast to increase to over one billion by 2050. In contrast, Islam is most prevalent in North Africa, being the religion of over 90 percent of the population in Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia, and Libya. Christianity in the world As opposed to other religions, Christianity is widely spread across continents worldwide. In fact, Sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean, and Europe each account for around 25 percent of the global Christian population. By comparison, Asia-Pacific and North America make up 13 percent and 12 percent of Christians worldwide, respectively. In several regions, Christians also suffer persecution on religious grounds. Somalia and Libya presented the most critical situation in Africa in 2021, reporting the strongest suppression of Christians worldwide just after North Korea and Afghanistan.

Muslim Ingredients Market Outlook

The global Muslim ingredients market size is projected to grow from USD 1.9 billion in 2023 to USD 3.5 billion by 2032, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.2%. The burgeoning Muslim population, coupled with increasing awareness and demand for halal-certified products, is a key growth factor driving this market.

The rising Muslim population globally is one of the primary drivers of the Muslim ingredients market. As of 2023, Muslims constitute about 24% of the worldÂ’s population, and this demographic is expected to grow significantly over the next decade. This growth is predominantly seen in regions such as the Asia-Pacific, Middle East, and Africa. The increasing Muslim population naturally leads to a higher demand for halal products, including food, beverages, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. A deeper understanding and adherence to religious dietary laws have further solidified the importance of incorporating halal ingredients in daily consumption.

The surge in disposable income among Muslim consumers has also played a pivotal role in the market's expansion. Improved economic conditions in countries with significant Muslim populations, such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, and UAE, have led to increased spending on premium halal-certified products. This trend is particularly evident in the food and beverage sector, where consumers are willing to pay a premium for assurance of quality and compliance with Islamic dietary laws. Consequently, manufacturers are increasingly investing in halal certification and aligning their products with Islamic principles to tap into this lucrative market.

Technological advancements and innovation in the processing and certification of halal products have further bolstered market growth. The introduction of blockchain technology for halal certification ensures transparency, traceability, and authenticity, thus gaining consumer trust. Additionally, advancements in food science have enabled the development of new halal-friendly ingredients, expanding the range of available products. Companies investing in research and development are better positioned to cater to the evolving preferences of Muslim consumers and gain a competitive edge in the market.

Halal Food plays a pivotal role in the Muslim ingredients market, as it aligns with the religious and cultural practices of Muslim consumers. The demand for halal food is not only limited to Muslim-majority countries but is also gaining traction in regions with growing Muslim populations, such as Europe and North America. This trend is driven by the increasing awareness of halal food as a symbol of quality and ethical production, appealing to both Muslim and non-Muslim consumers. The assurance of halal certification provides consumers with confidence that the food products adhere to strict Islamic dietary laws, which is crucial for maintaining religious observance. As a result, food manufacturers are increasingly investing in halal certification to cater to this expanding market segment and capitalize on the growing demand for halal food products globally.

Regionally, the Asia-Pacific holds the largest market share, driven by countries like Indonesia and Malaysia, where the majority of the population adheres to Islamic dietary laws. North America and Europe are also witnessing increased demand for halal products, fueled by the growing Muslim immigrant population and rising awareness among non-Muslim consumers about the benefits of halal-certified products. The Middle East and Africa region, with its predominantly Muslim population, remains a critical market, contributing significantly to the global revenue.

Product Type Analysis

The product type segment of the Muslim ingredients market comprises halal meat, halal dairy products, halal beverages, halal confectionery, halal nutraceuticals, and others. Halal meat holds a significant share in this segment due to the stringent religious guidelines governing meat consumption in Islam. The demand for halal meat is particularly high in regions with large Muslim populations, such as the Middle East, North Africa, and Southeast Asia. Companies are increasingly focusing on ensuring that their meat products are certified halal to cater to this growing demand. The advent of online meat delivery services has further propelled the growth of this segment.

Halal dairy products, including milk, cheese, and yogurt, are another crucial segment that has see

In 2020, Indonesia recorded the largest population of Muslims worldwide, with around 239 million. This was followed with around 226.88 million Muslims in Pakistan and 213 million Muslims in India.

The Central African Republic: Muslims as percent of the total population: The latest value from 2013 is 18 percent, unchanged from 18 percent in 2012. In comparison, the world average is 34.3 percent, based on data from 128 countries. Historically, the average for the Central African Republic from 1960 to 2013 is 9.1 percent. The minimum value, 3 percent, was reached in 1960 while the maximum of 18 percent was recorded in 2012.

Kuwait Imports: Africa: Islamic Non Arab Countries: Burkina Faso data was reported at 5.159 KWD th in 2017. This records an increase from the previous number of 1.749 KWD th for 2016. Kuwait Imports: Africa: Islamic Non Arab Countries: Burkina Faso data is updated yearly, averaging 1.286 KWD th from Dec 2000 (Median) to 2017, with 17 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 67.088 KWD th in 2003 and a record low of 0.000 KWD th in 2006. Kuwait Imports: Africa: Islamic Non Arab Countries: Burkina Faso data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Central Statistical Bureau. The data is categorized under Global Database’s Kuwait – Table KW.JA014: Imports: by Country: Annual.

These data were collected for a study of how the characteristics of political parties influence women's chances in assuming leadership positions within the parties' inner structures. Data were compiled by Fatima Sbaity Kassem for a case-study of Lebanon and by national and local researchers for 25 other countries in Asia, Africa and Europe. The researchers collected raw data on women in politics from party administrators and government officials. Researchers gathered information about parties' year of origin, number of seats in parliament, political platform, and all gender-disaggregated party data (in percentages) on overall party membership, shares in executive and decision-making bodies, and nominations on electoral lists. A key variable measures party religiosity, which refers to the religious components on their political platforms or the extent to which religion penetrates their political agendas.

Only parties that have at least one seat in any of the last three parliaments were included. These are referred to as 'relevant' parties. The four data sets combined cover 330 political parties in Lebanon plus 12 other Arab countries (Algeria, Bahrain, Comoros, Djibouti, Egypt, Jordan, Kuwait, Mauritania, Morocco, Palestine, Tunisia, and Yemen), seven non-Arab Muslim-majority countries (Albania, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Indonesia, Senegal, and Turkey), five European countries with dominant Christian democratic parties (Austria, Belgium, Italy, Germany, and the Netherlands), and Israel.

Kuwait Exports: Africa: Islamic Non Arab Countries: Uganda data was reported at 7.117 KWD th in 2017. This records a decrease from the previous number of 11.971 KWD th for 2016. Kuwait Exports: Africa: Islamic Non Arab Countries: Uganda data is updated yearly, averaging 14.000 KWD th from Dec 1975 (Median) to 2017, with 37 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 509.973 KWD th in 2003 and a record low of 0.000 KWD th in 1986. Kuwait Exports: Africa: Islamic Non Arab Countries: Uganda data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Central Statistical Bureau. The data is categorized under Global Database’s Kuwait – Table KW.JA007: Exports: by Country: Annual.

The Central African Republic: Shia Muslims as percent of the total population: The latest value from is percent, unavailable from percent in . In comparison, the world average is 0.0 percent, based on data from countries. Historically, the average for the Central African Republic from to is percent. The minimum value, percent, was reached in while the maximum of percent was recorded in .

Kuwait Exports: Africa: Islamic Non Arab Countries: Benin data was reported at 76.845 KWD th in 2017. This records a decrease from the previous number of 128.292 KWD th for 2016. Kuwait Exports: Africa: Islamic Non Arab Countries: Benin data is updated yearly, averaging 22.227 KWD th from Dec 1993 (Median) to 2017, with 23 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 827.262 KWD th in 2014 and a record low of 0.020 KWD th in 2011. Kuwait Exports: Africa: Islamic Non Arab Countries: Benin data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Central Statistical Bureau. The data is categorized under Global Database’s Kuwait – Table KW.JA007: Exports: by Country: Annual.

In 2022, a survey by the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights found that 28 percent of Muslims coming from North African countries faced discrimination. Among all surveyed countries, The Netherlands reported the highest rate, with 44 percent of respondents experiencing discrimination.

Kuwait Exports: Africa: Islamic Non Arab Countries: Eritrea data was reported at 3.652 KWD th in 2017. This records a decrease from the previous number of 5.511 KWD th for 2016. Kuwait Exports: Africa: Islamic Non Arab Countries: Eritrea data is updated yearly, averaging 19.414 KWD th from Dec 1997 (Median) to 2017, with 20 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 1,106.451 KWD th in 2011 and a record low of 3.652 KWD th in 2017. Kuwait Exports: Africa: Islamic Non Arab Countries: Eritrea data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Central Statistical Bureau. The data is categorized under Global Database’s Kuwait – Table KW.JA007: Exports: by Country: Annual.

Islamic Clothing Market Outlook

The global Islamic clothing market size is projected to witness substantial growth from 2023 to 2032, with market figures standing at approximately USD 100 billion in 2023 and expected to reach USD 170 billion by 2032, reflecting a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of around 6%. The increasing demand for modest fashion across the globe acts as a significant growth driver for the Islamic clothing market. This segment of the fashion industry has seen a surge in popularity, not only among Muslim populations but also among non-Muslims who appreciate the aesthetic and ethical aspects of modest fashion.

One of the primary growth factors for the Islamic clothing market is the rising preference for modest attire influenced by cultural and religious sentiments. This is particularly prevalent among Muslim-majority countries but is also gaining traction in Western countries where multiculturalism and diversity are celebrated. There is an increasing tendency among Muslim women to balance their religious traditions with modern fashion trends, leading to a higher demand for contemporary designs in Islamic clothing. The fashion industry has also seen a shift towards inclusivity and diversity, with many mainstream brands launching modest fashion lines, thereby reaching a broader audience.

The internet and social media platforms have played a crucial role in influencing the growth of the Islamic clothing market. With the increasing penetration of smartphones and the internet, consumers now have easier access to a variety of styles and trends from around the world. Influencers and fashion bloggers focusing on modest fashion have amplified the reach of Islamic clothing, encouraging a more expansive audience to explore this segment. This digital exposure helps bridge the gap between traditional and modern fashion, making Islamic clothing more mainstream and accessible.

Economic growth in key markets with significant Muslim populations is also contributing to the market's expansion. Countries in the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and parts of Africa are experiencing higher disposable incomes, leading to increased spending on fashion and lifestyle products, including Islamic clothing. Additionally, tourism has also played a role, where travelers visiting Muslim-majority regions tend to purchase local attire as part of their cultural experience, further boosting the market.

From a regional perspective, the Middle East and Africa hold a prominent share of the Islamic clothing market, driven by a large Muslim population and strong cultural ties to traditional attire. However, North America and Europe are projected to witness significant growth due to the increasing acceptance and popularity of modest fashion among diverse populations. Asia Pacific, with its large Muslim demographic in countries like Indonesia and Malaysia, continues to offer lucrative opportunities for market players. These regions are expected to exhibit varying growth rates, with regions such as Asia Pacific showcasing higher CAGR owing to its growing population and increasing urbanization.

Product Type Analysis

The Islamic clothing market encompasses a diverse range of product types, including abayas, hijabs, thobes, kaftans, and others. Abayas, primarily worn in the Middle East, have evolved from traditional wear to fashion statements, incorporating modern designs and fabrics. Fashion designers are innovating with abayas, integrating contemporary styles while maintaining their modest appeal. This ongoing evolution is making abayas popular not only in the Middle Eastern countries but also among Muslim women worldwide who seek modest yet stylish attire.

Hijabs, another significant segment, have seen a surge in demand due to the increasing number of women embracing this form of headscarf as a part of their daily attire. The hijab market has expanded with an array of styles, colors, and fabrics, catering to the diverse preferences of Muslim women. The growing awareness and acceptance of hijabs in non-Muslim countries have further propelled their demand. Brands are increasingly launching hijab lines, recognizing the economic potential and cultural significance of this product type.

Thobes, traditionally worn by men in Arab countries, are now gaining attention as lifestyle fashion. They are known for their comfort and simplicity, and recent trends have seen thobes being adapted for casual and formal occasions alike. The design innovations in thobes are making them appealing to younger generations who are keen on preserving cultural attire w

Prior to the civil war in the 1990’s ethnic tension caused many rivalries between groups. This was common between the Temne, with their allies the Limba, and the Mende, with their allies the Sherbro, Kissi, and Gola groups. Even with this history of ethnic conflict it does not appear to be a significant factor that contributed to the civil war as the war focused on control of diamond mines. With the civil war over for more than a decade the country is relatively peaceful. There are no serious ethnic conflicts or rivalries. Limba – Limba populations are found in other West African countries although 90% reside in Sierra Leone. The majority are Muslim, having been introduced to Islam in the late nineteenth century. This is much later than their neighbors. To prevent too much Westernization, the Limba often send their children to Islamic schools. Mande – The Mande are a large ethnic group in West Africa that is comprised of many smaller groups. The Mande people speak a variety of Mande languages. Most practice agriculture, animal husbandry, and trade. They practice a patrilineal society having the eldest male serve as lineage head. With so many Mande groups spread over West Africa there is much variation among language and culture. Mel – The Mel within Sierra Leone are comprised of the Gola and the Kissi. Similar to other West Africa groups, the Gola participate in secret societies. The most important occurs around the age of puberty and these societies seek to socialize youth with Gola culture. The Kissi are increasingly becoming culturally influenced by the Mende people. Soso - The Soso were introduced to Islam in the seventeenth century and they are now overwhelmingly Sunni Muslim, of the Maliki School. Many still perform ritual ceremonies from indigenous religions. They are often influenced by neighboring groups. Temne – The Temne are one of the largest ethnic groups in the country. While the capital of Freetown is home to many groups, the largest number of people belong to the Temne ethnicity. The majority are Muslim, having been introduced to Islam in the seventeenth century. Some Temne still practice indigenous religions or incorporate them into their practice of Islam. Similar to other groups in the country, the Temne also have secret socieites. The Temne use these socieites to learn about the Temne culture. Although many have convertered to Islam or Christianity, it is common to incorporate indigenous religious beliefs. Attribute Table Field DescriptionsISO3-International Organization for Standardization 3-digit country codeADM0_NAME-Administration level zero identification / namePEOPLEGP_1-People Group level 1PEOPLEGP_2-People Group level 2PEOPLEGP_3-People Group level 3PEOPLEGP_4-People Group level 4PEOPLEGP_5-People Group level 5ALT_NAMES-Alternative names or spellings for a people groupCOMMENTS-Comments or notes regarding the people groupSOURCE_DT-Source one creation dateSOURCE-Source oneSOURCE2_DT-Source two creation dateSOURCE2-Source twoCollectionThis feature class was constructed by referencing and combining information from Murdock’s Map of Africa (1959) with other anthropological literature pertaining to Sierra Leone ethnicity. The information was then processed through DigitalGlobe’s AnthropMapper program to generate more accurate ethnic coverage boundaries. Anthromapper uses geographical terrain features, combined with a watershed model, to predict the likely extent of ethnic and linguistic influence.Metadata and data pertaining to the feature class was collected from the review of Murdock’s Map of Africa (1959) in conjunction with information from anthropological research pertaining to ethnicity in northern Africa. While efforts were made to secure the accuracy of the geographic location of existing ethnicities, many are transient in nature and continue to migrate. Further, it should be stressed that ethnic groups listed represent the prominent people groups in Sierra Leone; however, numerous subgroups may exist below this tier. The data included herein have not been derived from a registered survey and should be considered approximate unless otherwise defined. While rigorous steps have been taken to ensure the quality of each dataset, DigitalGlobe is not responsible for the accuracy and completeness of data compiled from outside sources.Sources (HGIS)Anthromapper. DigitalGlobe, September 2014.Gonen, Amiram. The Encyclopedia of the Peoples of the World. New York: Henry Holt and Company, 1993.Levinson, David. Encyclopedia of World Cultures: Africa and the Middle East. Boston: G.K. Hall and Co., 1995.Murdock, George Peter. Tribal Map of Africa from Africa: Its Peoples and Their Culture History. New York: McGraw-Hill Book Co., January 1959.Olson, James S. The Peoples of Africa: An Ethnohistorical Dictionary. Westport: Greenworod Press, 1996.The Diagram Group. Encyclopedia African Peoples. London: Diagram Visual Information, 2000.Yakan, Mohamad Z. Almanac of African Peoples and Nations. New Brunswick: Transaction Publishers, 1999.Sources (Metadata)Gonen, Amiram. The Encyclopedia of the Peoples of the World. New York: Henry Holt and Company, 1993.Levinson, David. Encyclopedia of World Cultures: Africa and the Middle East. Boston: G.K. Hall and Co., 1995.Murdock, George Peter. Tribal Map of Africa from Africa: Its Peoples and Their Culture History. New York: McGraw-Hill Book Co., January 1959.Notholt, Stuart A. Fields of Fire: An atlas of ethnic conflict. London: Stuart Notholt Communications Ltd, 2008.Olson, James S. The Peoples of Africa: An Ethnohistorical Dictionary. Westport: Greenworod Press, 1996.The Diagram Group. Encyclopedia African Peoples. London: Diagram Visual Information, 2000.University of Iowa Museum of Art, “Sierra Leone; Gola or Vai peoples, Lansana Ngumoi”. January 2006. Accessed December 2014. http://uima.uiowa.edu.Yakan, Mohamad Z. Almanac of African Peoples and Nations. New Brunswick: Transaction Publishers, 1999.

In 2022, a survey conducted in the selected African countries found that the vast majority of respondents would be fasting during Ramadan. The regional average was was 99 percent. Furthermore, the country with the highest share of people fasting was Algeria with 99.7 percent. Ramadan is the biggest religious season for Muslims, during the month communities unite on a journey of spirituality. Fasting is one of the most important parts of the Ramadan celebration. The fast is broken every evening with a communal evening meal or Iftar.

Kuwait Imports: Africa: Islamic Non Arab Countries: Niger data was reported at 1.133 KWD th in 2017. This records an increase from the previous number of 1.125 KWD th for 2016. Kuwait Imports: Africa: Islamic Non Arab Countries: Niger data is updated yearly, averaging 2.445 KWD th from Dec 1984 (Median) to 2017, with 22 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 62.626 KWD th in 2014 and a record low of 0.000 KWD th in 2011. Kuwait Imports: Africa: Islamic Non Arab Countries: Niger data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Central Statistical Bureau. The data is categorized under Global Database’s Kuwait – Table KW.JA014: Imports: by Country: Annual.

This paper explores the question of what explains public opinion of women empowerment in the Middle East and North Africa. Muslim societies have often been accused of conservatism toward empowerment, stripping women of equal access to education and opportunities. However, many predominantly Muslim societies in the MENA region seem to be on the way to implement change to provide women with more rights. Prior research points to exposure to diversity as a contributor to the acceptance of a more egalitarian role of women in society. This article analyzes different mechanisms of the exposure hypothesis and whether they contribute to predicting positive public perceptions of women empowerment in the region. The empirical analyses rely on public opinion data collected by the Arab Barometer in 2018–19. The descriptive findings suggest attitudinal differences across countries, but also significant gender gaps and divergences across core explanatory factors found under the umbrella of the exposure hypothesis, such as diverse urban living, keeping religion a private matter, and connecting with the world via social media. These factors seem important to shift people's minds and to pave women's long way to liberalization.