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Religion in Mali

Much like other countries in Africa, Mali is rich in religious history. After Islam was introduced in the 13th century, it became and still is Mali's predominant religion, with 90 percent of Malians considering themselves Muslim. Indigenous beliefs make up 9 percent of the population, with only 1 percent practicing Christianity. Compared to other countries in Africa, Mali has been relatively tolerant with minimal religious conflict, especially after religious freedom was granted in the 1992 constitution. Recently, however, some Christians have faced discrimination as a result of Mali's growing Islamic influence.

Although animists and Christians are the minority in Mali, they have had an important impact on Mali's history and culture. Before Islam was introduced to Mali, the country was dominated by indigenous religions based around spirits and ancestors. Village leaders were believed to be closest to the spiritual world, and crop productivity was directly associated with the "spirits of the land." Today, many animists form close-knit villages, often resisting outside influence. Some, however, are being penetrated by western tourism, as can be seen in cases like the Dogon culture. Their conversion to more common religions is threatening the extinction of these ancient tribes.

With Mali on the brink of declaring Islam its national religion, some Christians feel threatened by an increasingly Muslim government and the expansion of Islam to new territory. While new Muslim mosques are being built across the country, it is increasingly difficult for Christians to obtain permission to build new churches. Evangelists and missionaries are seeking out converts in the indigenous communities, but it is hard to compete with the much more popular and accessible religion of Islam. Although there have only been isolated incidents of violence so far, many Christians fear that discrimination will escalate in the next few years.

In the 13th century, Islam was brought to Mali by merchants and traders from other countries across the Sahara. With the conversion to Islam came trade privileges and acceptance to a higher societal class that was attractive to many Malians at the time. The leader of the Mali Empire, Mansa Musa, made his famous pilgrimage to Mecca in 1324. With him he brought a caravan of sixty-thousand people, eighty camels, and two tons of gold which he required to be sprinkled in front of him as he walked. Although he gave his people religious freedom, he declared Muslim Mali's national religion and drew much attention to Islam through his devotion. Mansa Musa imported many Muslim scholars, architects, and artists, making Mali a center for Islamic learning. Today, Islam in Mali is very democratic. Women can participate in politics and do not have to wear veils. Religious tolerance is praised. Perhaps, although it is not perfect, Mali can serve as an example to other countries dealing with much more violent religious clashes and tensions.

Learn more about this author, Sandra Dapper.
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