48Chad
In Chad’s unstable and increasingly authoritarian context, Christians – especially converts – face layered forms of persecution. Christians are subject to surveillance, harassment and arbitrary repression. Conflict in the southwest has stoked intercommunal tensions. Violence between Christian and non-Christian communities has resulted in displacement, property destruction and cycles of retaliation.
Islamic extremist groups, including Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), remain active around the Lake Chad Basin. These groups continue to attack Christian villages, burn churches and abduct believers, particularly in rural zones with limited state protection. Their actions contribute to insecurity and religious polarisation.
Additionally, authoritarian policies add further pressure, and several factors, such as corruption and crime, have weakened trust in the rule of law.
Christian converts in Muslim-majority regions face threats, beatings and forced concealment. Even private worship can trigger punishment.
Meet IDPs in Chad, worshipping after an attack
“For me as a Christian, the earth is an exile. But everything is good. We must walk from peril to peril.”
The lyrics to a song sung by IDPs in Chad after an attack that left 30 Christians dead.
What does Open Doors do to help?
Open Doors works through local churches in Chad to offer persecution-preparedness training, economic empowerment programmes and other support to help Christians understand persecution and remain resilient.
Please pray
- Pray that God will change the hearts of Islamic militants and that His people will be protected.
- Ask God to give believers who converted from Islam hope and peace as they can face heavy pressure from their families and communities.
- Pray that God’s hand will be on this part of sub-Saharan Africa as it experiences instability because its neighbouring countries face violence and displacement.