“Sudan, rejoice as you partake in the sufferings of Christ!”
But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. (1 Peter 4:13,NIV)
》 Country Profile
Continent | Africa
Population | 47.95 million
Area | 1,861,484㎢, Located in northeastern Africa
Capital City | Khartoum (6.34 million people)
People Groups | Total 162 groups, Sudanese Arabs 31.9%, Ghaali people 8%, Beja people 5.2%, Guhayna people 4.8%, Fur people 2.7%, Shaigiya people 2.3%, Gawamaa people 2.2%
Unreached People Groups | 131 (55.1% of the population)
Official Language(s) |Arabic, English
Total Languages | 92
Bible Translations | Completed 16, New Testament 15, Partial 15
Religion | Christianity 5.4% (Catholic 1%, Protestant 4%, Orthodox less than 1%), Islam 94.2%, Ethnic Religions 2.8%, Evangelicals 0.3% 140,000 people
》 About Sudan
Sudan was under the rule of the Ottoman Empire in the early 19th century and became increasingly islamized under Egypt’s Muhammad Ali dynasty. In 1899, it became a jointly ruled territory of Britain and Egypt under the Anglo-Egyptian Joint Ruler Agreement, which lasted until 1955. Sudan gained independence in 1956. Since 1958 Sudan experienced a series of military coups, leading to political instability. In 1989, Omar Hassan al-Bashir seized power and focused on developing the northern region. This led to discontent in the southern and Darfur regions, and caused conflicts between races, religion, and resource. Eventually there were two major civil wars (1955–1972, 1983–2005) between the northern and southern regions. In 2003, a conflict erupted in Darfur, and the government-backed militias brutally suppressed rebels, resulting in a humanitarian crisis so severe that it was classified as genocide. In 2019, widespread pro-democracy protests took place and the military overthrew of al-Bashir ended his 30 year dictatorship. A transitional government was formed and planned to hold an election for a civilian government by early 2024. However, civil war broke out again in 2023, derailing the plan and plunging the country back into chaos and conflict.
Sudan is rich in agricultural and mineral resources and once experienced one of the fastest economic growth rates in the world due to crude oil production. However, after South Sudan’s separation in 2011, Sudan lost three-quarters of its oil fields, severely weakening its economy. Around 80% of the workforce is engaged in agriculture and livestock farming. Cotton being the primary crop, they exports gold, crude oil, sesame seeds, nuts, sheep, goats, and cotton. Their main underground resources are iron ore, manganese and etc. Despite its natural wealth, half of Sudan’s population lives below the poverty line, struggling with economic hardship, political instability, and ongoing conflict.
Sudan’s GDP per capita is approximately $989.
》 Scripture Focus
| 1 Peter 4:7-8,11-14(NIV) 7 The end of all things is near. Therefore be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray. 8 Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. 11 If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen. 12 Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. 13 But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. 14 If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. |
》 Prayer Points
1. After South Sudan’s independence in 2011, the Sudanese government intensified its Islamic fundamentalist policies, leading to severe oppression of the church. Churches in Khartoum were demolished, while schools, churches, and hospitals in the Nuba Mountains were bombed. Around 600 missionaries and Christian organizations, including NGOs, had their properties confiscated and were expelled. The churches in Sudan have suffered not only physical destruction from war, persecution, and bombings but also deep spiritual and emotional pain.
Let us pray that the Lord, who covers all sins and hardships with His love, will sustain the Sudanese church. May trials refine them like gold, strengthening their faith to endure suffering with hope and joy, so that they may become a victorious church that glorifies Christ’s name.
2. The civil war that erupted in April 2023 has devastated Sudan in every aspect. Mass killings of certain ethnic groups have resulted in countless casualties and refugees, while power, water, and healthcare systems have completely collapsed. Buildings and infrastructure are in ruins. War crimes are widespread, with women and young girls suffering sexual violence and forced marriages, effectively trapping them in sexual slavery. The crisis has also worsened food insecurity, with at least 700,000 children facing acute malnutrition and the risk of death.
Let us pray that those suffering in Sudan will cry out to the Lord and find hope and salvation in Him. May God open doors for humanitarian aid and provide wisdom and strength to those serving Sudan, ensuring that the people receive both physical relief and spiritual healing.
3. Despite the war and persecution, several missionary and Bible translation organizations continue to support Sudanese Christians. Groups such as Open Doors, Voice of the Martyrs, Frontline Missionary Association, and Samaritan’s Purse are risking their lives to provide aid and spiritual support. Even amid civil unrest, Bible translation work is still ongoing, and reports indicate that many are reading the Bible and turning to Christ. UnfoldingWord is translating the Bible into Sudanese ethnic languages, using “Open Bible Stories” to present biblical narratives simple and easy to understand. Sudanese church planters are sharing these Bible stories in minority languages in the refugee camps, leading many Muslims to Christ.
Let us pray that the missionaries in Sudan will boldly proclaim God’s Word and serve the people with His strength and unfailing love. May their efforts bring more Sudanese souls to Christ, so that God’s kingdom may grow in the midst of suffering.
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