Sun Feb 22 12:53:53 UTC 2026: ### Colombia’s Growing Muslim Community Celebrates Ramadan Amidst Increasing Diversity

The Story:
Colombia, a predominantly Catholic country, is home to a growing Muslim community estimated between 85,000 and 100,000, representing less than 0.2 percent of the population. This community, diverse in origin and experience, is increasingly visible, with celebrations of Ramadan becoming more prominent in cities like Bogota and Medellin. The community includes both long-term immigrants from countries like Lebanon and Pakistan, as well as a growing number of Colombian converts. This burgeoning Muslim population is actively building community through cultural centers, mosques, and shared traditions like the Iftar meal during Ramadan.

Key Points:

  • Colombia’s Muslim population is estimated between 85,000 and 100,000, less than 0.2 percent of the total population.
  • The community is diverse, comprising both immigrants from Muslim-majority countries and Colombian converts.
  • Migration waves, particularly following the Lebanese civil war in the 1970s, contributed significantly to the Muslim population.
  • Medellin now has five mosques.
  • In 2020, Colombia elected its first Muslim mayor in Maicao.
  • The Qurtubi Islamic Centre in Bogota estimates 100-200 new converts are part of their congregation.

Key Takeaways:

  • Colombia’s Muslim community, though small, is growing and becoming more visible.
  • Diversity within the community, while enriching, presents challenges in building a cohesive identity.
  • Shared cultural events, like Ramadan, play a vital role in fostering community and understanding.
  • The increase in converts suggests a growing interest in Islam within Colombia.
  • The establishment of more mosques and cultural centers indicates a strengthening infrastructure for the Muslim community.

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