ETHIOPIA: TWO ATTACKS KILL NEARLY 30 ORTHODOX CHRISTIANS

Two attacks by extremists have shocked a community in the Oromia region of Ethiopia at the end of February. Almost 30 believers have been killed. Please pray.

On 26 February, extremists stormed a market in the east Arsi Zone of the Oromia Region in Ethiopia, opening fire on citizens. Twenty Orthodox Christians were killed, as well as one Muslim guard, whilst some have disappeared – likely kidnapped.

Local sources report that a priest was amongst those killed when the attackers entered a church shouting religious chants before shooting at those inside. The attackers moved on to set fire to homes and crops, causing panic to spread and many residents to flee to nearby towns for refuge.

This was a historically peaceful area with a blend of Muslims and Orthodox Christians. But, two days later, on 28 February, more attackers struck the community once again, killing seven people inside a church.

Image: Houses in rural Ethiopia

Growing tensions

According to locals, tensions have been increasing between different groups within the community. Members of the Orthodox Church say authorities are encouraging Muslim settlement and offering Muslim citizens government employment over Orthodox believers.

New Open Doors research indicates the targeted and organised nature of the attacks against Orthodox Christians. Fikiru Mehari*, east Africa expert on persecution, says, “These incidents frequently involve attacks on church members and the deliberate targeting of church leaders. With state protection minimal, these Orthodox communities become severely vulnerable.”

Jo Newhouse*, spokesperson for Open Doors work in sub-Saharan Africa says: “Not only are people displaced as a result of the attacks, but also likely severely traumatised. These Orthodox and Muslim communities have lived in relative peace alongside each other for years, and from our experience, these attacks can erode the social cohesion and peace that is necessary for communities to thrive.

“We urge the Ethiopian government on every level to do everything in its power to protect vulnerable communities in Oromia and ensure that those who are responsible are held accountable.”

Image: A small town in southern Ethiopia

Stand with them

Please continue to lift our brothers and sisters facing violence and persecution in sub-Saharan Africa to God. The Arise Africa petition has almost reached the halfway mark in its target of a million signatures worldwide. Sign and share now to join with the voice of our persecuted brothers and sisters advocating for justice and restoration across sub-Saharan Africa.

 *Names changed for security reasons