TANZANIA: AMEKIDIA’S BRAVE FAITH

For many people in Tanzania who follow African Traditional Religions (ATR), family and community are central to life. Leaving those beliefs can be seen as rejecting your family, often bringing serious consequences.

Amekidia*, now 20, grew up in a family with deeply held traditional religious beliefs. But in 2023, everything changed when she heard the gospel, became a Christian, and started attending a local church.

Her family strongly opposed her decision.

“After I became a Christian, my parents opposed me because of my faith,” she remembers. “They wanted to marry me off, but I refused.”

Forced marriage is often used as a tactic by families to coerce young women and girls into returning to their previous religion. But Amekidia’s boldly refused to go along with her parents plan, which eventually led to her parents forcing her to leave home. They also stopped paying for her education.

Image: Children outside a primary school in rural Tanzania

“After I refused, they chased me away from home. When I was forced to leave, I went to live with my uncle, who has been taking care of me ever since.”

Things became even more difficult in September 2025, when the man chosen to be her husband abducted her and took her to another village, where she was held against her will and assaulted.

The next day, Amekidia managed to escape and contact her pastor, who helped her get medical care and report the crime to the police. However, her pastor and uncle later were threatened and warned against pursuing the crime through the police.

Despite everything she has faced, Amekidia has remained strong in her faith. With support from Open Doors local partners, she has been able to continue her education and work towards her future.

“I am progressing well. Now I am free, although my family still rejects me,” she shares. “I truly value education, and I am eager to continue my studies. Please keep me in your prayers so that I can achieve my dreams.”

*Name changed for security reasons