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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 (Islamic law) 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.
Persecution for Christians also comes from within their own families and communities. The culture itself is very religiously conservative. 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 from Islam to Christianity can put your life in great danger from your own community. You could face house arrest, forced marriage, forced Islamic rituals or even threats to your life. These factors make Somalia one of the most dangerous places in the world to be a Christian.
Almost all of Somalia's Christians come from a Muslim background, and they face the greatest risks of persecution. Those living in areas controlled by al-Shabab are in the most immediate danger.
Little has changed for Christians in Somalia. It remains one of the most dangerous places in the world for followers of Christ. Al-Shabab continues to create an environment of fear and intimidation.
Open Doors supports Somali believers across the Horn of Africa through discipleship training and by equipping them to cope with severe persecution.
Father God, give great courage and hope to Your people in Somalia who face such huge risks for following You. May their faith inspire the very people who are persecuting them. We pray for al-Shabab to be pushed back and for peace to return to Somalia at last, Amen.