The Advent and Schisms of Sufi Orders in Mozambique, 1896–1964

Sufi orders, particularly the Shadhuliyya and Qadiriyya, experienced significant expansion among local Muslims in Mozambique during the colonial era (1896–1964), leading to the formation of eight autonomous branches. This study reveals that their growth was driven by historical context and internal schisms, while Portuguese colonial officials only began closely monitoring Sufism late in the period due to its role in the independence struggle. The research combines archival work from Mozambique and Portugal with fieldwork across key sites, including Mozambique Island, Angoche, Nampula, Pemba, and Maputo, offering a rare in-depth look at Sufi identity and rituals in the region.

Bonate, L. J. K. (2015). The Advent and Schisms of Sufi Orders in Mozambique, 1896–1964. Islam and Christian–Muslim Relations, 26(4), 483–501. https://doi.org/10.1080/09596410.2015.1080976