Africa is one of the most religious continents in the world. Across its 54 countries, faith plays a central role in people’s lives, shaping their culture, lifestyle, and even politics. From large churches in cities to traditional shrines in villages, religion is everywhere. But which countries are the most religious?
In this article, we’ll examine the 10 most religious countries in Africa, based on surveys, religious adherence rates, and the influence of religion on daily life. These rankings are not just about numbers — they reflect how deeply religion is practised and felt in everyday society.
Contents
What Makes a Country “Religious”?
A country is considered religious when:
A large percentage of the population belongs to a faith.
Religion strongly influences laws, politics, and education.
Daily life includes religious practices like prayer, fasting, and worship.
People openly identify their lives with their religion.
Data for this article is drawn from sources like Pew Research Center, Afrobarometer, Gallup surveys, and national census reports.
Top 10 Most Religious Countries in Africa
1. Nigeria
Main religions: Christianity (south), Islam (north), and African Traditional Religion.
Why it ranks high: Religion influences everything from elections to education. Churches and mosques are active daily, and religious holidays are widely celebrated.
Interesting fact: Nigeria has one of the largest Christian and Muslim populations in the world.
2. Ethiopia
Main religions: Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity, Islam, and Protestantism.
Why it ranks high: Ethiopia is home to one of the oldest Christian churches in the world, dating back to the 4th century.
Interesting fact: Religious fasting is common and taken seriously. Many Ethiopians fast over 200 days a year.
3. Egypt
Main religion: Islam (majority), with a Christian minority (mostly Coptic Orthodox).
Why it ranks high: Islam shapes national laws and customs. Daily prayers (salat) are publicly observed, and Ramadan is widely practised.
Interesting fact: The Coptic Church in Egypt is one of the oldest Christian denominations in history.
4. Ghana
Main religion: Christianity (over 70%), with Islam and Traditional Religions also present.
Why it ranks high: Ghanaians are openly spiritual. It is common to see Bible verses on shops, taxis, and even public buses.
Interesting fact: Ghana was ranked as one of the most religious countries in a Gallup World Poll, with over 90% saying religion is important to their lives.
5. Senegal
Main religion: Islam (over 90%)
Why it ranks high: Islam in Senegal is not only a religion but a way of life. The country has strong Sufi Muslim traditions, especially the Mouride Brotherhood.
Interesting fact: The city of Touba is a spiritual center that attracts millions of pilgrims annually.
6. Tanzania
Main religions: Christianity and Islam (almost evenly split)
Why it ranks high: Both major religions are practiced deeply and peacefully. Religious services and prayers are part of daily routine.
Interesting fact: Zanzibar, a semi-autonomous region, is almost entirely Muslim and has its own unique Islamic culture.
7. Kenya
Main religion: Christianity (majority), with Islam and Traditional Religions
Why it ranks high: Religious events are frequently aired on TV and radio. Churches are very active, especially Pentecostal ones.
Interesting fact: Public prayers and faith-based rallies are common, even in schools and government settings.
8. Morocco
Main religion: Islam (official state religion)
Why it ranks high: Islamic teachings are embedded into the constitution. Daily life, including education and justice, follows Islamic principles.
Interesting fact: While deeply religious, Morocco also promotes moderate Islam to combat extremism.
9. Uganda
Main religion: Christianity (mostly Catholic and Anglican), with Islam also present.
Why it ranks high: Religion is tied to national identity. Churches play a big role in health care and education.
Interesting fact: Religious leaders often have strong voices in national politics.
10. Mali
Main religion: Islam (mostly Sunni)
Why it ranks high: Religion is central to life in both urban and rural areas. Most people pray five times a day and observe Islamic festivals.
Interesting fact: Timbuktu was once a great Islamic center for education and spirituality in West Africa.
Other Honourable Mentions
Zambia: Declared itself a Christian nation in its constitution.
South Sudan: Christianity is strong, especially in the face of national challenges.
Niger: Predominantly Muslim and very religious, especially in rural areas.
Burkina Faso: Religion remains vital despite growing instability.
Why Religion Matters in Africa
Religion in Africa is not just about going to church or mosque on weekends. It touches:
Politics: Religious leaders influence elections and policy.
Education: Faith-based schools are common.
Health: Many health centres are run by churches or mosques.
Family Life: Marriage, birth, and funeral traditions are deeply religious.
Sources and Further Reading
Final Thoughts
Africa remains one of the most spiritual regions in the world. Whether Christian, Muslim, or Traditional, religion is deeply rooted in the hearts of its people. These 10 countries are shining examples of how faith continues to shape life, law, and culture across the continent.
If you’re interested in exploring more about African spirituality or religious trends, check out our other posts like:
👉 List of Religions in Africa & Their Percentages
👉 Traditional Religion vs Christianity in Africa
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