Whole areas of the Central African Republic (CAR) were cleared from the 17th century onwards, as people were kidnapped and sold into slavery – a practice that continued into the late 19th century.

The country is underdeveloped – without a decent transport system or adequate healthcare facilities. The average life expectancy is only 49 years.

Wars in neighbouring Sudan and the Congos have had a knock-on effect, as refugees have crossed the borders and the economy has lost trade links.

The CAR has been politically unstable and has seen much violence in recent times. A national Christian leader was involved in bringing together a reconciliation meeting, recognising the CAR’s need for greater peace.

Many churches have been growing in the 1990s.

Since the 1960s loads of people have become Christians, but there has not been enough discipleship to see their faith mature. The church is struggling with divisions and lack of trust between leaders.

With immigration from other countries, the number of Muslims is growing, but there are few Christians who are equipped and supported to reach them. Islamic influences from Libya, Sudan and Saudi Arabia are bringing many to Islam.