Afar in Djibouti

People Name:	Afar
Country:	Djibouti
10/40 Window:	Yes
Population:	339,000
World Population:	2,850,000
Primary Language:	Afar
Primary Religion:	Islam
Christian Adherents:	0.03 %
Evangelicals:	0.01 %
Scripture:	Complete Bible
Ministry Resources:	Yes
Jesus Film:	Yes
Audio Recordings:	Yes
People Cluster:	Afar
Affinity Bloc:	Horn of Africa Peoples
Progress Level:

Introduction

The Afar (or Danakil) claim to be descendants of Noah's son, Ham. They live in the East African countries of Djibouti, Ethiopia and Eritrea. The Afar of Djibouti live either along the coastline bordering Ethiopia, or in a portion of the Danakil Desert that stretches across Ethiopia into Eritrea. Djibouti is sometimes called “a valley of hell” because it has one of the hottest, driest climates in the world and suffers from drought. Most Afar are nomads who herd sheep, goats, cattle and camels. Some are fishermen. Market day is important to the Afar and some travel great distances to buy and sell necessities. A man's wealth, however, is measured by the size of his herds. They are a proud people who emphasize strength and bravery.

Ministry Obstacles

Early in their history, the Afar were heavily influenced by the Islamic religion and today, Islam is still held in great esteem, yet many pre-Islamic beliefs and customs are also prevalent. There is mounting political tension regionally.

Outreach Ideas

Pray for the Followers of Christ

Pray for the Entire People Group

Ask the Lord to bring forth a movement to Christ among the Afar.
The few Afar believers are isolated and face social pressure to return to Islam. Pray that the Holy Spirit would give them the strength and courage to hold on to their faith in Christ.
There are radio broadcasts that can reach the Afar if they would only listen and heed Christ's call. Ask God to miraculously make those the first broadcasts they hear each day and that they would listen with open hearts.