Pray for Djibouti

The small nation of Djibouti is filled with desert landscape, mountain ranges, volcanic plains, salt flats, and beaches. It is located on the east coast of Africa, and the economy is centered on trade and transportation. Ethiopia relies on Djibouti’s ports, and other nations in the region use them as well. Located at the entrance to the Red Sea, it is a major gateway for trade between Africa and the Middle East. Since the end of civil conflict in 2001, Djibouti has enjoyed peace. It hosts military bases from the United States, France, China, Japan, Italy, and other nations, which have contributed to its stability and regional security.

The current president holds the dominant authority over the nation and its policymaking. While he has won the last six elections, questions have been raised about the fairness of the elections, and several major opposition parties have boycotted recent elections, arguing that they are neither free nor fair. Public criticism of the government is restricted and leads to harassment, arrest, and ill-treatment in custody. Human rights activists are restricted, and protests are often met with violence. The dry climate limits crop production and causes water scarcity, so most of the nation’s food and energy must be imported. Unemployment rates are high, and over 40 percent of Djiboutians live in poverty. Many children do not complete primary school, and the adult literacy rate is 68 percent. Additionally, female genital mutilation is a social norm, and over 90 percent of women have experienced it because of tradition and misunderstood religious beliefs. Drug use is widespread, particularly with the khat leaf.

The constitution provides for freedom of religion only for government-approved religions, and the lengthy registration process makes it difficult for new Christian denominations to become legal. Djibouti has been predominantly Muslim since Islam was introduced in the 7th century. Islamic principles are rooted in society and in the public education system. Around 97 percent of the population is Muslim, and those who leave the faith often face social exclusion and threats. Sharing the Gospel with Muslims is extremely challenging and sensitive, but some believers are taking the risk.