In the fifth Arise Africa episode, we turn to Eritrea, ranked 5th on the World Watch List 2026, where following Jesus can mean surveillance, imprisonment and forced military service. Only four religious groups are officially recognised, leaving many Evangelical and Pentecostal Christians treated as illegal. Believers face violent raids, indefinite detention in harsh conditions and severe punishment for worshipping – especially within the military.

Converts from Islam or the Eritrean Orthodox Church risk rejection from family and community alongside state persecution. With intense pressure and widespread fear, Eritrea remains one of the world’s hardest places to live out the Christian faith – yet courageous believers continue to stand firm.

Haile is an Open Doors speaker, and he shares his life’s testimony and how the Lord has seen him and his family through as believers in an Islamic country.

You can make a difference today. Join thousands standing in solidarity with persecuted believers cross Africa by signing the Arise Africa Petition.