ISLAM IN THE VOLTA REGION A CASE STUDY OF AVE AFIADENYIGBA

ABSTRACT The purpose of this study was to find out the history and impact of Islam in the Volta Region of Ghana with special emphasis on Ave Afiadenyigba. The design used for this research was that of a case study. Unstructured interview and participant observation were used as the instruments for the study. In selecting the sample for the interview, this study made use of the purposive and simple random techniques. These sampling procedures helped the researcher access relevant information on the history and impact of Islam in the study area. The key findings from the research showed that although Islam has been present in the Region for about two hundred years now, its overall influence has remained marginal. The study further discovered that in spite of the sparse distribution of Muslims in the Region Ave Afiadenyigba has a large Muslim community consisting of both migrants and indigenes. The study also discovered that there are several challenges facing the Muslim community in the study area paramount of which is the lack of holistic education as demanded by Islam and the inability by some Muslim traders to live according to the Islamic business ethics. Key among the recommendations made was for Muslim parents to change their attitude towards secular education and avail their wards of this form of education. This will enable them compete favourably for employment and other opportunities that may present themselves. The study concludes that Muslim scholars should take up their Islamic duty of propagating the faith through logical and peaceful means. This is because Islam is a religion which, when presented well and consistently will win the hearts of other people