Eritrea Factbook

Eritrea has been an independent country since 1993. Eritrea is similar to Ethiopia in many ways. Christians enjoyed unprecedented freedom but are now somewhat restricted. Most of the population is divided evenly between Christians and Muslims.

Eritrea is located in northeastern Africa along the Red Sea. It borders on Djibouti, Ethiopia, and Sudan. The land is mostly dry, hot desert along the coastline. Approximately 4.5 million people live in Eritrea. Decades of war have driven many from the country into surrounding lands.

Drought and nearly continual warfare have drained life from the economy. The majority of the population is dependent on foreign aid to live.

Eritrea was an Italian colony from 1890 to 1941. In 1951 it was established as part of a federation with Ethiopia. In 1961, Ethiopia annexed Eritrea and sparked a 30 year war for independence. In May 1998 war broke out again with Ethiopia and concluded in 2000. Eritrea is a secular state with a tradition of religious freedom. However, the rapid growth of Islam has led to restrictions on all religious groups.

Much of Eritrea's past has been influenced by Ethiopia where Christianity has been known since the 4th century. As a result of Ethiopian influence, the Eritrean Orthodox Church represents approximately 40% of the population. Unlike Ethiopia, evangelicals are rare, accounting for less than 2% of the people.

Christians suffered under Italian rule and while Marxists were in power in Ethiopia (1974-1991). Years of suffering seems to have had a refining influence on the church. Islam has grown rapidly is now equal in number with Christianity.

Pray for Christians as they deal with the affects of decades of war. Ethnic division is a real problem. Pray for the reestablishment of Christian missionaries Eritrea. Missionaries were not allowed until 1991 and are now restricted again. The need is great, and many more are needed.

Copyright 2006 by Brad Garrison

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