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Dyula people
| Total population | |
|---|---|
| 2.2 million | |
| Regions with significant populations | |
| West Africa | |
| Languages | |
| Dyula, French, English | |
| Religion | |
| Predominantly Sunni Muslim | |
| Related ethnic groups | |
| Mandinka, Bambara, Jakhanke |
The Dyula (Dioula or Juula) are a Mande ethnic group inhabiting several West African countries, including Mali, Côte d'Ivoire, Ghana, and Burkina Faso.
Characterized as a highly successful merchant caste, Dyula migrants began establishing trading communities across the region in the fourteenth century. Since business was often conducted under non-Muslim rulers, the Dyula developed a set of theological principles for Muslim minorities in non-Muslim societies. Their unique contribution of long-distance commerce, Islamic scholarship and religious tolerance were significant factors in the peaceful expansion of Islam in West Africa.[1]
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