A dominant religion
In Guinea, every man must be a believer and practice or at least follow the precepts of a religion. In any case, it is difficult for young people in particular to assert themselves without religion, or even as an atheist, in a country where religion is omnipresent in daily life and where it determines social relations for many. It is therefore good practice to be discreet for those who wish to engage in certain practices that are not recommended or even forbidden. Most of the Guinean population is Muslim (85%) and Islam is generally practiced in a moderate way. This religion therefore gives rhythm to the life of the society through prayers and the different festivals of its calendar: Tabaski, Ramadan... It should be noted, however, that since the mid-2010s, a more rigorous Wahhabi movement has been growing, especially in Fouta Djalon, the historical land of Islam in Guinea. This can be seen, for example, in the increase in the number of women wearing the full veil outside their homes. This new situation is challenging local balances and tensions between the different obediences are becoming more and more apparent, but so far without any major upheaval. In Upper Guinea, another historical land of Islam, this reality also exists, but despite everything, traditional Muslim festivals, such as Tabaski, are still the starting point for festivities that give rise to phenomenal dance performances, called Mamaya, and which are punctuated by the music of griots.
Religious minorities respected
Christians represent approximately 10% of the population, divided between Catholics, Protestants and other evangelists. Jehovah's Witnesses are also quite active in the country. Catholics are mainly present in Forest Guinea but also in the northern part of Fouta, in Koundara. Bishop Sarah, a figure of the Roman Church, is from this region. But Christianity was introduced to Guinea in Boffa at the end of the 19th century by three young people who were sent to Senegal and returned home baptized. Their community called for missionaries and the Catholic mission of Boffa was created, the first in the country. Since then, Boffa has become a place of pilgrimage for all Guinean Catholics. In Forest Guinea, Christianity is practiced by 25% of the population. This is because Catholics have fought less head-on against ancestral animist practices than Muslims. But animism is still very present. Initiation, which is obligatory, still marks the passage to manhood. The sacred woods, the ritual dances and the masks have in this region a traditional impact for the moment unalterable. Syncretism is the rule here. In the respect of the various beliefs, it offers a certain serenity to the believers.
