Country Profile: Algeria
In 1992 the Islamic party capitalized on popular discontent and won the elections. The Government declared the vote invalid and led the country into a decade of civil war. Over 100,000 people, mostly civilians, died and the country is deeply traumatized by the violence it has witnessed. Although incidents still take place, the political situation has greatly improved and people are longing to leave a dark decade behind.
Around 1981, God began to move in an amazing way amongst the seven million Kabyle people. This people group, mostly living in the mountains east of the capital, has long suffered under suppression and discrimination and many are tired of Islam’s religion.
A handful of new believers braved persecution and started preaching the gospel in village after village. God’s Spirit has been clearly at work up to this day. Many report healings and miraculous signs, but the greatest miracle is the numerous lives charged by Christ’s healing presence.
Today, there are an estimated 60,000 Kabyle believers in the country who worship the Lord Jesus. This is the fastest growing church movement in the Muslim World. But with this incredible growth come over-whelming needs …
The unfinished task is still huge. The churches need their leaders to be trained, Outside the Kabyle mountains, among 30 million unreached people, there are only around 1,000 believers gathering in 25-30 mainly small fellowships.
Facts about Algeria
Population: 36 million Languages: Arabic, French, Berber languages
People groups: Arabs, Kabyle Berbers, Chawis, Mzabis, Tourags etc.
Geography: 5 times the size of France. Mostly populated in the north.
Politics: Republic. Led by president Bouteflika since 1999, re-elected 2004.
Economy: $1590 GDP per capita. Over 25% unemployed. The hydrocarbon sector is the backbone of the economy.
How You Can Help
OM has partnered with the local church in Algeria through forming a team of mostly indigenous believers seeking to finish the mission. We need partners interceding and financing the team.
We do not have a training program for internationals, but are open to invite those with previous experience in the Arab world to join us.
Algeria demands a visa for visitors and ways to reside are limited to entrepreneurs, foreign language teacher and those with special skills.
Our vision is that Jesus would be known all over Algeria, seeing multitudes discipled and churches established throughout the country, led by called and well trained Algerians, influencing the world, especially North Africa and the Muslim World.
For financial support, please send a gift designated to House of Hope Algeria through your local OM office.
To find your closest OM office, please visit www.om.org
