Sudan’s tumultuous history, marked by ethnic and religious divisions, has led to significant challenges. Following independence from the UK in 1956, the contrast between the northern and southern regions fueled civil wars and the eventual separation of South Sudan in 2011. Although there have been efforts to reconcile the north and south, Sudan remains a spiritual and physical battleground. Christians constitute a minority in this predominantly Arab Sunni Muslim nation.

The division between northern Arab Muslims, who controlled the government, and the southern Sudanese majority has been a source of conflict. Civil wars and exploitation of southern oil fields contributed to the Darfur rebellion in 2004, leading to widespread displacement and casualties. Efforts for peace, led by the UN, aimed to heal a society scarred by ethnic discrimination.

Today, the majority of Sudan’s population practices Islam, with strong influence over law and government. Conversion to Christianity is legally punishable by death. While South Sudan enjoys relative religious freedom, Sudanese Christians face persecution, with those in the Nuba Mountains enduring the most severe hardship. There is a pressing need for unity among regional and denominational Christian communities in Sudan. Please pray for Sudanese believers to stand firm in their faith despite persecution and to come together as a united body of Christ.