Fact Check: Did Angola Government Really Ban Islam ? -

Image Source: Twitter (now X)

In recent years, rumors and reports have frequently surfaced claiming that Angola has banned Islam and is demolishing mosques. These claims resurface periodically, causing significant confusion and concern.

The 2010 Angolan Constitution guarantees religious freedom for all its citizens. However, in late 2013, rumors spread that the Angolan government had banned Islam and shut down all mosques in the country, citing a clash with the state’s Christian values.

Yesterday (June 20, 2024, 8:11 PM), Arnab Goswami shared a post on Twitter along with a video claiming that Angola has banned Islam. The situation underscores the importance of verifying information and understanding the context before drawing conclusions. 

अफ्रीका के अंगोला में इस्लाम को बैन किया?
pic.twitter.com/EEvsI0ihK3

— अर्नब गोस्वामी (Parody) (@RealArnab_) June 20, 2024

Origin of the Rumor

According to the U.S. Department of State's 2013 report, 194 different religious groups were denied legal recognition, most of which were Christian organizations, and this included Islam. The report noted that one mosque was destroyed, and two mosques were closed, while in the same year, 52 churches were shut down.

Religious groups in Angola must petition the government for legal recognition. Once recognized, these groups are permitted to build schools and places of worship. To gain recognition, a group must have more than 100,000 members and be present in at least 12 out of 18 provinces. However, the Muslim population is estimated to be only about 90,000.

Government's Religious Stance

The Angolan Constitution guarantees freedom of religion and does not interfere with religious practices. The Angolan government has repeatedly clarified that there is no ban on Islam. This confusion likely stems from government actions regarding religious buildings that lack proper permits. Some mosques were indeed closed or demolished because they were built without the necessary legal permissions, not due to a broad ban on Islam.

Demographics and Muslim Population

Historically, there was no significant Muslim population in Angola. During the 21st century, Angola’s Muslim community has grown. Most Muslims in Angola are businesspeople and migrants from West Africa and the Middle East, particularly Lebanon. The impact of Muslim missionary activity has led to very few Angolans converting to Islam.

Adebayo Oyebade estimates that Muslims make up 1 to 2.5 percent of Angola's population. The U.S. Department of State reports an estimated Muslim population of 80,000-90,000, although some sources suggest a number closer to 500,000, which seems highly unrealistic.

Legal and Regulatory Framework

In Angola, religious groups must meet certain criteria to gain official recognition, including having a significant number of followers and a presence in a large part of the country. This requirement has posed challenges for some religious groups, including Islamic organizations, in obtaining official recognition. However, this does not equate to a ban on practicing Islam.

Misinterpretation and Media Sensationalism

Initial reports and subsequent reiterations of this story have been inaccurate. For example, statements by Angolan officials about the lack of recognition for certain religious practices have been misinterpreted as a blanket ban on Islam.

Current Situation

While there have been incidents of mosque closures and the denial of legal recognition to some Muslim groups, the rumors of a ban on Islam have been denied by the government.

Recent investigations have found no evidence supporting the claim that Angola has banned Islam. The government maintains constitutional rights, and many mosques continue to operate without issues. Officials in Washington, D.C., have also reiterated that there is no such ban and that contrary reports are incorrect.

Conclusion

While there have been incidents involving unapproved religious structures, the broader claim that Angola has banned Islam is false. The government denies such allegations, and despite some regulatory challenges, Muslims in Angola continue to practice their faith.

Video Source: Factly