Morocco Factbook

Morocco is strongly held in the grip of Islam, and the government openly acts to keep it that way.  Despite this, the gospel is spreading, and some Moroccans have come to Christ in recent years.

Morocco is located on the northwest coast of Africa.  The terrain varies from rich coastal plains to desert in the interior.

Approximately 30 million people live in Morocco.  The original inhabitants were Berbers.  Muslim Arabs took control in the 7th century.  Today, two thirds of the people are Arab and one third are Berber.

The economy is primarily based on agriculture.  Morocco also derives income from tourism and exports of minerals such as phosphate.  Compared with the region, Morocco is relatively wealthy.

Morocco gained independence from France in 1958.  The government is a constitutional monarchy.  Islam is the official state religion.

The government seeks to ensure that all Moroccans remain Muslim.  Other religious groups are tolerated among expatriates, but witnessing to Muslims is strictly forbidden.  Despite this, there is a growing interest in the gospel, and some Moroccans have come to Christ.

Moroccan Christians suffer significant persecution.  Although the government is often involved, the strongest persecution typically comes from family members.  Pray for believers and their small churches that they may grow in God's grace.

Although missionaries are not allowed, a number of expatriate Christians have been sharing their faith.  Pray for boldness and wisdom in their witness.  Efforts are also underway to translate and print Bibles in the Berber languages.

Copyright 2006 by Brad Garrison

Return