People groups of Mauritania
Mauritania, an Islamic Republic in North Africa, is a vast forgotten desert land, with a population of only 2.3 million. Because of the drought, the percentage of nomads dropped from 75% in 1970, to less than 25% now. Many nomads who lost their animals fled to the capital, which in a few years grew to a city with 600,000 inhabitants and is still unable to cope with such an influx of people. The main people groups of Mauritania are the Moors and the Toucouleur or Pulaar people. In the south around 80,000 Tuareg refugees from Mali wait for resettlement. There have been tensions between the different Mauritanian people groups, as well as a conflict with Senegal in 1989, but after a civilian government was appointed, relations improved.
Until recently the only Christians in the country were expatriates. In the last few years, the first known Mauritania Christians have been led to Christ and now there are dozens of believers. Please continue to pray for their protection as proselytization is strictly forbidden. A Mauritanian who converts to another religion can be given the death penalty.
More Christian workers are needed to work as tentmakers in this closed country, but it is getting harder to obtain visas for expatriates. Because of the poverty of the country, much outside help is still needed and Christians are able to show the love of Christ through practical service.
Please pray ...
- for the government and that the will of God be done.
- for unity among believers, both local and foreign.
- for those traveling to their home countries. For endurance, refreshment, and guidance by the Holy Spirit about how to share with partners there.