Tanzania / Zanzibar

The government generally protects Christians from persecution; however, the country has large Muslim regions with long traditions of Arab influence. In these areas, Christians can face persecution. The islands of Zanzibar and Pemba were once ruled by Oman, and after their independence they were annexed by Tanzania with the agreement they would be allowed to remain semi-autonomous. Christians on these islands face harsh persecution. Like many countries in Africa, there is a concerted effort by Arab countries to Islamize Tanzania by establishing Muslim businesses and schools throughout the country as well as electing Muslim officials into office and passing laws favoring Islam. The local churches in Tanzania are working to spread the gospel in difficult and unreached areas.

Life for Christians

Christians can freely practice their faith but are oppressed
and harassed in predominantly Muslim areas. Persecution ranges from family pressure to violent threats to the burning of churches and homes. On Zanzibar Island, the local government is trying to quietly close churches, prevent new ones from starting and force pastors to leave. On Pemba Island, persecution is more overt; Christians are violently attacked. In Muslim majority areas, Christians, especially converts, are often ostracized and prevented from obtaining jobs.