Pray for Central African Republic

The Central African Republic sits on top of a literal goldmine of diamonds, gold, and uranium, yet it shockingly remains one of the poorest and most dangerous nations in the world. Since gaining independence in 1960, CAR has been marked by cycles of corruption, violence, and political instability. Many of its leaders have squandered resources, favored certain ethnic groups, and failed to unite the nation. Armed groups have furthered divisions between Christians and Muslims, and while religious differences had little to do with the initial government coups, current warlords have used religion as a wedge to gain power.

The CAR is one of the world’s least-developed countries and weakest economies. A majority of the population falls below the international poverty line ($2.15/day), and the country’s healthcare system is one of the world’s weakest. Adult literacy is low, and roughly 40 percent of children cannot attend school because of poverty, displacement, armed conflict, and other factors. The majority of women are unable to find formal employment. Many experience domestic violence, and numerous armed groups roam the countryside and target civilians. They often set up blockades, operate mines, and execute revenge killings in their domains. Around 19 percent of the population has been displaced and now live as refugees with host families or in camps that provide little sanitation and limited access to clean water. Violence and fighting have left the justice system, schools, and administration centers understaffed and inefficient.

Throughout the turmoil, many there have found hope in Christ. More than 70 percent of the population identifies as Christian. The government protects freedom of religion, although persecution from outside groups exists. However, Christianity is often mixed with other spiritual practices. Missionaries are still reaching the nation, and indigenous-led churches are rising up to meet the great spiritual, emotional, and physical needs of their people. In a nation stricken with violence, poverty, and corruption, people must look to Christ to find hope.