39 Mozambique
Persecution Type
- Islamic oppression (Very strong)
- Organized corruption and crime (Medium)
- Dictatorial paranoia (Medium)
- Clan oppression (Medium)
Christian population
19,184,000
Government
Presidential republic
Main Religion
Christianity
Leader
President Filipe Jacinto Nyusi
What does persecution look like in Mozambique?
Christians in Mozambique face a number of challenges that significantly endanger their freedom and well-being.
The rise of Islamic extremism in the north of the country, especially in regions like Cabo Delgado, has had a devastating impact on the lives of believers. Churches have been burnt down, pastors abducted, and many killed. The objective of these groups is to establish a strict Islamic state, and Christians are often targeted as symbols of resistance to this extremist ideology.
In addition, Christians often caught in the crossfire of the ongoing conflict between government forces and jihadist groups, making them even more vulnerable to violence and displacement.
Mozambique has also become a major hub for drug trafficking, with the presence of cartels contributing to a climate of lawlessness and violence, which indirectly affects the Christian community. Church youth workers are particularly at risk, as they are often seen as threats to the cartels.
The government also restricts religious freedom and within families and society, believers can face hostility, particularly converts from Islam.
What changed this year?
Though the level of jihadist violence did go slightly down during this reporting period, the level of fear among Christians is on the rise due to the increasing influence of the Islamist group al-Sunnah wa Jama’ah (ASWJ), particularly in the northern regions of Mozambique. There have been fears that the jihadists would expand in provinces outside Cabo Delgado, agility of the militants against regional forces. The government is not taking meaningful policy actions beyond military operations to address the root causes of the conflict and tackle the growing influence of the jihadist group. If a more comprehensive strategy is not implemented, the threat posed by the Islamist group may escalate, leading to more challenges in ensuring stability and security in Mozambique. Additionally, the government’s ability to suppress reporting on incidents means many of these developments do not have awareness outside of local sources.
How can I pray?
- For courage and protection for Christians living under the threat of attacks by Islamic militant groups
- That Christians facing pressure for their faith will hold onto Jesus, knowing His love and power at work in them
- For wisdom for Open Doors partners as they encourage the church to be salt and light even in difficult circumstances.