Sudan approaching independence for the South


South Sudan’s upcoming split leaves
the future of Christians uncertain.

Sudanese Christians request continued prayer as the North and South prepare to separate on July 9, in accordance with a referendum held in January (click here for more). Alarming developments include the North's intention to implement Shariah, or Islamic law, more strictly, potentially reducing the limited freedoms given to Christians and other non-Muslims. There is also fear that, with many Christians fleeing the South, the remaining believers will be especially vulnerable to pressure and attacks.

Additionally, the parameters of the North-South border remain hotly disputed at several points. In the province of Abyei, a referendum has been delayed and attempts to assert military control have erupted in violence in recent months. There have also been violent clashes in other provinces and increased violence in the western region of Darfur. Thousands of people have been displaced and forced to flee to the South in the wake of the violence.

Pray the rights of all Christians in Sudan will be respected. Pray for special guidance for Church leaders as they adapt to the changes posed by operating under two legal systems. Pray the two governments will rule justly for the benefit of all citizens. Pray the peace of the Lord will reign throughout Sudan and that violence will cease.

For more on the trials facing Christians in Sudan, go to the Sudan Country Report.

  • Country Information

    Population
    49,197,555 (2023 est.)

    Ethnicity (%)
    Sudanese Arab (70), Fur, Beja, Nuba and Fallata (30)

    Religion
    Sunni Muslim, small Christian minority

    Leader
    President (to be determined)
    Transitional military leadership in place

    Government type
    Presidential republic

    Legal system
    Mixed legal system of Islamic law and English common law

    Source: CIA World Factbook

  • Pray for Sudan

    Pray that Christians throughout Sudan will continue to entrust themselves to Christ and preach the Gospel boldly, knowing Jesus is the ruler over the kings of the earth (2 Timothy 1:7-12, Revelation 1:5).

    Pray also that peace, justice and religious freedom may be firmly established.

Sudan News

  • Humanitarian Aid Denied to Muslim-Background Believers
    A group of people are gathered closely together under a rudimentary shelter made of poles and white cloth.
    Refugees in Sudan
    Photo: Flickr / EU Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid (cc)

    Now in its eighth month, Sudan's civil war has displaced over six million people, many of whom were forced to take refuge in camps where food and other basic resources are scarce. Some humanitarian assistance has been provided to the country, which is then distributed through smaller local aid groups. According to a Christian ministry worker in the region, this aid has been denied to some displaced followers of Jesus.