Somalia

Inscriptions in ancient Egyptian temples testify to the interaction and thriving commerce between these two countries. Ebony, myrrh, frankincense, and gold were carried through the desert on trade routes to and from what was then known as country of Punt. Pirates have found its waters lucrative since Bible times. Later, Islamic kingdoms came into power. Later still, the British and Italians each claimed a portion of the country and were eventually successful in implementing their control, although they were stoutly resisted for a time. After WWII, the UK administered both portions of Somaliland to some extent until 1960, when the Somali Republic gained independence.

A few years after freedom, Somalia was forcibly taken over and was eventually controlled by a party that combined Islam and socialism until civil war broke out. Bloodshed, unrest, and corruption followed with a power vacuum that led some to call Somalia a failed state. Not only has Somalia struggled with internal upheaval, it has also conflicted with its neighboring countries who have either been negatively affected by the country’s instability or have taken advantage of it. Over twenty-years after the civil war began, a permanent government was established, and Somalia is beginning to move forward once again.

This desert country, slightly smaller than Texas, is inhabited by many nomadic clans, each with its governmental system and protective forces, which have increased in power during the national crisis. Somali and Arabic are the official languages, although English and Italian are both spoken as well. War and drought have combined to deplete food supplies, finding most of the twelve million Somali in great need. Yet, their spiritual need is even greater. When Islam was first formed in Asia and its adherents fled opposition, they found a home in Somalia making Islam a strong influencing power since the Middle Ages. Yet, the very circumstances that seem to wreak havoc on this nation may lead it to the hope of the Gospel: millions of Somalis who have fled their country are now living within reach!

Missionaries in Somalia:

Missionaries in Africa (listed with BIMI account numbers)