Conflict and the climate crisis have left people without food, clean water and a safe place to call home across West Africa. Attacks from armed groups have forced millions from their homes. This week, pray for Nigeria, Mali and Chad – nations that are also facing the effects of deadly droughts and floods.
Sunday 15 October
The devastating conflict in the northwest and northeast regions of Nigeria has forced schools to close and left an estimated 18.5 million children without an education. Farmers and those who make a living from fishing haven't been able to work safely, leading to a severe lack of food in parts of the country. Pray for lasting peace to come to Nigeria.
Monday 16 October
The Tearfund office in Nigeria has a vision to work with 50,000 local churches to stir transformation and influence across Nigeria. Pray for Joseph Aloo, the Country Director, and the whole team to passionately and determinedly work together to achieve this goal.
Tuesday 17 October
In Mali, the changing climate is leading to droughts, floods and infestations of crop-eating insects. The worst-affected regions are in the south of the country where agriculture is the main source of income – towns and villages are more densely populated and levels of poverty are already high. Lift up the people of Mali today and ask for God’s provision for them.
Wednesday 18 October
In the Sikasso region of Mali, Tearfund’s partner has helped mother-of-three Mariam and other women set up a market garden in their village. It means they now have a sustainable way of meeting their needs after years of unpredictable rainfall. ‘I am positive about my future,’ says Mariam. Praise God for this support and pray for more communities to be able to benefit from projects like this.
Thursday 19 October
The Covid-19 pandemic led to an 87 per cent increase in the number of people needing vital healthcare in Chad. This was caused by reduced access to basic services such as medical clinics and hygiene and sanitation facilities. Despite the worst of the pandemic appearing to be over, the knock-on effect on people's lives and livelihoods continues in much of West Africa. Pray for restoration and resilience for its people.
Friday 20 October
The conflict in Chad is dividing communities and families, including Antony’s. He was left to look after his five siblings, but couldn’t afford their education costs. Tearfund partner Service Baptiste pour le Développement/Baptist Service for Development provided funds to fix a sewing machine left to Antony by his father and he now has a flourishing tailoring business. ‘Today our worries and our sufferings have been replaced by a better hope,’ he says. Praise God for Antony and his family’s transformation.
Saturday 21 October
‘God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.’ (Psalm 46:1) Lift up in prayer all the communities we serve in West Africa. Pray particularly for peace in areas held in the grip of violence and for more sustainable solutions to help communities create income as weather patterns become increasingly more unpredictable.
