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GlobalPrayerGuide

Djibouti
Hostile
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Overview:

Djibouti is mainland Africa’s third smallest nation. It is dominated by two majority-Muslim groups, the Afar and Somali, and is nearly surrounded by parts of neighboring countries that serve as safe havens for Islamic terrorists. Despite this, Djibouti itself is not dominated by extremists. The capital hosts many foreigners, and international aid groups operate freely out of the country. Even though Islam is the official state religion, the rights of Christians are generally respected, Bibles are legally available and there is no law preventing Muslims from converting. Still, Djibouti seeks to maintain its Muslim identity, and Christian organizations are not allowed to officially register.

Major Religion:

98 percent of Djiboutians are Sunni Muslims. 1 percent are Christians.

Persecutor:

Christians converts from Islam may experience government oppression, but most persecution comes from families and local Muslim communities.

What It Means To Follow Christ In Djibouti:

The government tries to limit the spread of Christianity and the growth of churches by prohibiting public meetings and the construction of buildings for Christian activities. The only churches allowed to worship openly are French Protestant, Roman Catholic and Ethiopian Orthodox. Foreigners are granted personal religious freedom, but evangelism and the discipleship of new believers are discouraged. Muslims who express an interest in Christ face the risk of persecution from family and friends, and those who convert are isolated, beaten and sometimes killed for abandoning Islam.

Access To Bibles:

Bibles are available, but owning one in some communities comes with the risk of government harassment or violence at the hands of Muslim family members and the Muslim community. Give Bibles

VOM Work:

VOM supports believers who are persecuted because of their faith. Give to VOM’s Global Ministry

Prayer Requests:

  • Pray for unity among front-line workers in the country.
  • Pray for continued stability so persecuted believers from surrounding nations can take refuge there.
  • Pray that Somali and Eritrean refugees will have the opportunity to hear the gospel.
  • Pray for Christian converts from Islam, who face pressure and persecution from their communities.
  • Pray that the gospel will continue to spread among the Afar people.