2 Somalia
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Persecution Type
- Islamic oppression (Very strong)
- Clan oppression (Very strong)
- Organized corruption and crime (Very strong)
Christian population
Hundreds (estimate)
Government
Federal Parliamentary Republic
Main Religion
Islam
Leader
Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre / President Hassan Sheik Mohamud
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What does persecution look like in Somalia?
In Somalia, following Jesus is a matter of life and death. Al-Shabab, a violent Islamist militant group, is at war with the government and controls large swathes of the country. This group enforces a strict form of Sharia and is committed to eradicating Christianity from Somalia. They have often killed Somali Christians on the spot. The dangers have increased over the years, as the militants have increasingly focused on finding and eliminating Christian leaders.
But persecution for Christians also comes from within their own families and communities. Being Muslim is a huge part of Somali identity, and to reject this is seen as a major betrayal that affects the whole family. Even a suspicion that you might have converted can put your life in great danger from your community. You could face house arrest, forced marriage, forced Islamic rituals or even threats to your life.
How can I pray?
- Ask God to help secret Christians know they aren’t alone.
- Pray that God will protect anyone in danger of attacks from Islamist extremists al-Shabab.
- Pray for secret believers who have children. These parents need wisdom as they teach their children about Jesus and how to follow Him.