RELIGION

Christianity and Islam are the predominant religions of Tanzania. About 40-45% of the population practice Christianity, about 35-40% practice Islam. The rest of the population adhere to traditional beliefs, most of which centre around ancestor worship and nature-based animism. Most Christians live on the mainland, where missionary stations and schools reach deep into the continent. Islam is the major religion of the coastal areas but is also practiced further inland along the old caravan routes. Religion plays a large part in the daily life of Tanzanians. In Christian areas, families attend church together dressed in their Sunday best. Church services always involve singing and the hymns – often sung in complex harmonies – spill out to the streets outside. Easter and Christmas are major events in Tanzania, with services and celebrations often extending far into the day and night. The lunar month of Ramadan is an important time for Muslims around the country, who fast from food and drink from sunrise to sunset. After Ramadan comes the Eid, a time of feasting and festivity for the whole community. Tanzania’s Asian religious minority includes Hindus, Sikhs, and Ismailis