News|ReligionSmall but mighty: Colombia’s Muslim community celebrates RamadanColombia’s Muslims comprise less than 0.2 percent of the population in a country that is majority Catholic.

Colombia's Muslim community, though small, is characterized by its diversity and historical roots. With an estimated population of 85,000 to 100,000 Muslims, they represent less than 0.2% of the country's demographic composition. This community includes both long-standing migrants and recent converts.

The Muslim population in Latin America expanded significantly following the collapse of the Ottoman Empire in the early 20th century. Subsequent migration waves included a significant influx during Lebanon's civil war in the 1970s. Many Lebanese, both Muslims and Christians, settled in Colombia, notably in areas like Maicao, where one of Latin America's largest mosques was completed in 1997.

In Medellin, the Muslim community is growing, as evidenced by the presence of five mosques. This includes cultural centers and places of worship that serve as focal points for community gatherings and religious observance.

Sheikh Ahmad Qurtubi, at the Qurtubi Islamic Centre in Bogota, notes the presence of worshippers from approximately 10 to 15 different countries, highlighting the diversity within the community. He also estimates a significant number of converts among the worshippers, indicating an evolving demographic.

Cultural Celebrations and Community Building

During Ramadan, the community engages in various cultural events, such as Iftar meals, where families volunteer to prepare food reflecting their cultural backgrounds. These events foster a sense of belonging and understanding among the diverse members of the community.

Qurtubi emphasizes the importance of knowledge and communal activities in strengthening the community's identity and integration within Colombian society.

Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.