Trouble in the Ivory Coast

Ivory coast missionary work halted
Published: Friday, April 22, 2011

This is very sad. There is always unrest somewhere in Africa and the Saints there must be a very stalwart, very strong in their testimonies. They would need to be to survive all the wars and unrests in this big country of many small nations

IVORY COAST

Mission activities in the Ivory Coast have been suspended because of political unrest and widespread violence in the country. More than 135,000 Ivorians have crossed into Liberia, more than 7,000 into Ghana, and more than 2,000 into Togo. Relief organizations have set up refugee camps in border areas.

There are no reports of deaths or injuries among members, according to a Church welfare report. Many member families have abandoned their homes, taking refuge in rural villages or fleeing to Ghana, Liberia, Benin or Togo. Those who have reached locations where there is a Church presence are being attended to by local leaders and members.

All missionaries are safe. The mission president is currently operating from Lomé, Togo. Non-Ivorian missionaries have been evacuated to Ghana, Benin and Togo, while Ivorian missionaries have been given temporary leave to return to their homes or to stay with local members until it is safe to travel, according to the report.

The Church is working with other relief organizations to provide hygiene supplies to refugee camps in Liberia.

Area leaders continue to assess the situation of members and the community.