Islam in São Tomé and Príncipe is a very small minority religion in this island nation off the west coast of Central Africa.

1. Muslim Population

• The country is predominantly Christian (about 95-97%), with the majority being Roman Catholic.
• Muslims make up less than 0.1% of the population — a tiny community of mainly immigrants, traders, and some converts.
• The exact number of Muslims is unknown but estimated to be several hundred at most.

2. History of Islam in São Tomé and Príncipe

• Unlike many African nations, Islam did not historically spread to these islands, as they were uninhabited until the Portuguese arrived in the 15th century.
• The Muslim presence is very recent, largely due to migrant workers and foreign traders, possibly from West African countries like Nigeria, Senegal, and Guinea.

3. Religious Practice

• There are no known mosques or Islamic centers officially recognized in the country.
• Muslims may pray in private homes or informal gathering spots.
• There are no reports of significant Islamic organizations or public celebrations of Islamic holidays.

4. Religious Freedom

• The constitution of São Tomé and Príncipe guarantees freedom of religion, and Muslims are allowed to practice their faith freely, but Islam has no official status.
• There are no reports of discrimination against Muslims, but also no formal state recognition of Islamic holidays or institutions.

5. Influence and Growth

• Due to the extremely small size of the Muslim community, Islam has little to no cultural, political, or social influence in São Tomé and Príncipe.
• The Muslim community is unlikely to grow rapidly unless significant immigration from Muslim-majority African nations occurs.

6. Fun Fact
São Tomé and Príncipe is one of the few African countries where Islam is almost absent, unlike mainland Central Africa where Islam is widespread.

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São Tomé and Príncipe
Country Code Top-Level Domain: .st
Country Code: +239