Islam

A panel titled “Historical Studies of Islam in Africa” was held at the Turkish Directorate of Religious Affairs (TDV) Islamic Research Center (ISAM) Conference Hall. The 19th panel of ISAM’s scholarly meetings was moderated by Kübra Nugay, featuring speakers Prof. Dr. Anne K. Bang and Prof. Dr. Knut S. Vikor from the University of Bergen. Prof. Dr. Bang expressed her honor and pride in being at ISAM. In her speech, she discussed topics such as Islam in East Africa during the 19th and 20th centuries, contemporary readings of the period’s written works, and the impact of Muslims who migrated from Oman and Yemen to Africa in the post-Islamic period. Using maps and visuals, Bang stated, “For those unfamiliar with Africa and the Swahili coast, I can briefly say that the East African coastal region was Islamized very early, particularly through migration patterns from Southern Arabia and the Shiraz region of Iran to various parts of East Africa.” Prof. Dr. Vikor, in his presentation on “The Continuity of Islamic Law in Muslim Africa,” noted that discussions continue in the region about what happens when Islamic law must adapt to modern legal systems. He highlighted that Islamic law exists within the modern state system in Africa, shaping today’s legal framework, and commented, “I believe the most significant change that occurred during the colonial period is not the form of the law but having reference sources.” After the talks, ISAM Vice President Assoc. Prof. Yaşar Çolak presented the speakers with books and took a commemorative photo.