Abidjan: From Lagoons to the Heart of West African Islam

Abidjan: From Lagoons to the Heart of West African Islam
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Abidjan, the economic capital of Côte d’Ivoire, stands today as a symbol of African development and modernity, while also serving as a major cultural and economic hub for Muslims in West Africa, an article by Shia Waves Persian reported.

Once a cluster of fishing villages along Lake Ébrié, Abidjan has grown into a modern metropolis with glass towers, wide boulevards, and a population exceeding five million. Muslims, forming a significant portion of the city, have played a pivotal role in its social, cultural, and economic development. Their presence is visible through large mosques, Islamic neighborhoods, schools, and active participation in trade, education, and civic life. During Ramadan and Islamic festivals, the city radiates a unique spiritual atmosphere.

Key historical developments, such as the construction of the strategic “Fredi” canal in 1950 linking Lake Ébrié to the Atlantic Ocean, transformed Abidjan into an international port and a destination for internal and regional migration, including many Muslims. Despite the political capital moving to Yamoussoukro in 1983, Abidjan remains the country’s economic and cultural heart.

The city’s name, according to local legend, derives from a miscommunication with a European traveler, meaning “I have returned from cutting leaves.” Today, Abidjan’s Muslims continue to sustain the city’s vibrant cultural, social, and spiritual life.