A Brief History of Islam in Madagascar

The history of Islam in Madagascar begins in the 7th century AD when Arab and Persian traders began to trade with the indigenous people on the east coast of Africa. Over time, some of these Muslim traders decided to settle in Madagascar and spread Islamic teachings to the local population.

In the 16th century, Muslim sultanates on the east coast of Africa such as Kilwa, Zanzibar and Sofala began to extend their influence into Madagascar and introduced Islam to the region. One of the important figures in the history of Islam in Madagascar is King Andrianampoinimerina, who ruled in the 18th century. He is known as a leader who is tolerant of religion and introduces several elements of Islam in people's lives.

In the early 19th century, many Muslim immigrants from East Africa and South Asia started coming to Madagascar, mainly as traders and fishermen. They brought Islamic teachings and started to form a Muslim community on the island. One of them who is famous is a trader from India named Amir Abd Allah, who founded the Anwar Mosque in 1867.

During the French colonial period in Madagascar, Islam was considered a threat to colonial power and was often repressed. However, the Muslim community continued to thrive and survive under this oppression. After the independence of Madagascar in the 1960s, Islamic teachings were increasingly accepted by society and have continued to grow to this day.

Currently, about 20 percent of Madagascar's total population is Muslim. The Muslim community in Madagascar consists of various ethnic groups and there are many mosques and madrassas throughout the island. Islam has been an integral part of Madagascar's culture and society and has continued to develop over time.