Transnational Islamic nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) have been active in many parts of Africa since the 1980s, and, particularly since the 1990s, have expanded their activities and outreach across the continent. As transnational organizations, they act across national borders; and as Islamic organizations, they represent one of the significant power blocs in today’s world. In addition, they are of local importance in that they try to enhance people’s material and moral livelihoods by humanitarian aid and proselytizing activities. For instance, in addition to offering medical help, food, and educational facilities, they also offer rules of behavior and a sense of belonging to the umma, the global community of the faithful. Because of these characteristics, global backing and local action, they often also acquire a charged political meaning in the national context.