Congo DR (DRC)

What does persecution look like in Democratic Republic of the Congo?

In the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), especially in the eastern region, Christians face severe persecution and violence, frequently from Islamist militants the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF). Allied with the Islamic State group, the ADF abduct and kill Christians and attack churches, leading to widespread terror, insecurity and displacement.

The M23 rebel group, reportedly supported by Rwanda, also targets Christian civilians, making the situation even worse. Converts from Islam and indigenous religions face pressure from their families to return to their old faiths. Catholic church leaders who speak out for fair elections risk harassment. This mix of militant threats, family pressures and political interference creates a dangerous and fearful environment for Christians in Eastern Congo.

Who is most vulnerable to persecution?

Christians face difficulties and violent attacks from Islamist militants who are particularly active in the North Kivu province, in the eastern part of the country. 

Meet "Jerome"

"Getting food is our main problem now that we are displaced, because we don’t have a place to farm. The situation is very bad. If life goes on like this … it’s hard to live."

Jerome*, an internally displaced person (IDP) in DRC

What has changed this year?

The last year has seen an escalation in attacks against Christians from the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF). These are Islamist extremists with ties to the Islamic State group. Coordinated attacks have killed dozens, displaced thousands and left believers living in fear. Christians in the DRC have faced high levels of violence for several years, but this year the attacks against followers of Jesus have been even more brazen and shocking.

What does Open Doors do to help Christians in DRC?

Open Doors works through local partners to support Christians in the DRC through persecution survival training, economic empowerment projects and trauma care.

How can you pray for Democratic Republic of the Congo?

• The violence in the eastern part of the DRC is staggering. Pray that God’s hurting people will know that He is near. 
• So many Christians have lost everything and have been forced to flee their homes. Pray these displaced followers of Jesus will find stability and hope.
• Despite the ongoing attacks on mostly Christian communities, people continue to come to faith in Christ in eastern DRC. Pray for their faith to grow strong and that they will be well discipled.  

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