Mozambique religion is an eclectic blend of Roman Catholicism, Islam, non-Catholic Christian faiths and a few other indigenous religions. However, Christianity in its varied forms is the most widely followed religion in Mozambique. About 25% of the total population of Mozambique do not adhere to any particular faith. Of the remaining population, most are followers of the Roman Catholicism. Islam and Zionism are the next two most widely practiced religions in Mozambique.
Roman Catholicism in Mozambique
About 24 % of the total population of Mozambique follow Roman Catholicism. Roman Catholicism was brought into the country by the Portuguese settlers who started to vigorously colonize the country from the beginning of the 16th century onwards. Presently, the Roman Catholic church in Mozambique operates through twelve dioceses. Some of the dioceses like Chiomio have high Catholic populations, while some have a Catholic population as low as 7 – 8%.
Zionism and Non-Catholic Christian Faiths in Mozambique
Zionism in Mozambique is the most popular non-Catholic Christian faith. About 19% of the total Mozambique population follow Zionism. Zionism is synonymous to the African Independent Churches, and is one of the most popular Christian faiths in Africa. Apart from the Zionist church, the Protestant Church is the most popular non-Catholic Christian faith followed in Mozambique. A number of Protestant sects operate in Mozambique, including Jehovah's Witnesses and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.
Islam in Mozambique
About 18% of the total population of Mozambique follow Islam. The Muslim population of Mozambique are largely based on the northern parts of the country. Divided into brotherhoods, the Muslims of Mozambique largely belong to the Qadiriya and the Shadhuliyyah sects, although there are some who belong to the Shia and Ismaili communities as well. The reformist Conselho Islamico de Mocambique, and the pro-Sufi Congresso Islamico de Mocambique are two national level Muslim organizations.
