*ARCHIVED OCTOBER 2007 // CLICK HERE FOR CURRENT DATA

Mauritania (click here to view a satellite map)

Mauritania, North Africa

Population: 3,086,859
Christians: <1%
Dominant Religion: Sunni Islam
Persecution Ranking: 40th
Political Leader: Col. Ely Ould Mohamed Vall 
Religious Freedom in Constitution: No

It's been just two months since the bloodless coup in which a 17-member military council, headed by Colonel Vall, took control of Mauritania. On the 3rd of August 2005, they replaced former President Taya who, during his 21 years of power had sought to modernize the country by developing economic links with the West. The new rulers have said they will return power to an elected civilian government within two years. Along with a change in the ruling power, another new prospect for the country comes with the discovery of oil off the coast. Full-scale production is expected to begin in 2006. Mauritania has a small number of Christian Believers. All who have chosen to follow Jesus Christ face harassment and pressure from their families. Some are threatened with divorce by spouses or in-laws, and some are evicted from their homes.
Prayer Points

	Pray that Mauritania will be governed in a wise and biblical manner.
	Pray that new oil wealth will be wisely used for the benefit of all citizens, and that fears of it bringing corruption and even violence will prove unfounded.
	Pray that the development of economic links facilitates more Christians visiting Mauritania and supporting local Believers.
	Pray that those who have chosen to follow Jesus Christ will find fellowship and be discipled.

LORD God Almighty, build and strengthen Your Church in Mauritania, provide discipleship and mentors for young Christians, and bring to maturity all who seek You. May Your Church be united in You. Strengthen those who suffer job discrimination, harassment or ostracism from their families because they have chosen to follow Jesus Christ as their LORD and personal Savior. Amen

ADDITIONAL INFO ON MAURITANIA

• View additional info on the Joshua Project site
• Praying Through The Window 6
• Praying Through The Window 7
• 2006 Weekly Prayer Points