Mozambique: Child abduction fears

The church in Mozambique is becoming increasingly concerned by a rise in child abduction by Islamic extremists, with at least 120 children having been kidnapped from the Cabo Delgado province this year.

The northern region has been plagued by jihadists known as al-Shebab or ISIS-M, who have recently stepped up abductions of children in the region, with many subjected to forced work and marriage while in captivity, according to Open Doors, which supports persecuted Christians.

The organisation revealed that only six children have been released following their kidnapping, and Christian communities are particularly vulnerable, especially their youth groups. The extremists’ recruiting schemes involve convincing young people to join them under false pretences.

Adding to the already precarious situation, Open Doors spokesperson from Mozambique David Samuel (name changed for security reasons) revealed to en that the nation’s church is not equipped to handle the escalating situation: “The church in Mozambique, especially in the northern region, is concerned about the phenomenon of abductions.

“Families are hopeless because of child abduction. Some of these families, whose children were abducted, are members of local churches. The pastors of these churches are called to give spiritual support. Unfortunately, most of the pastors do not have specific training on how to deal with people with trauma. Some of the church members are forced to leave their communities for places considered secure.”

Asked about what can be done to protect Christian communities from the increasing threat in light of government failure, Samuel revealed that greater awareness in communities is key.

“Communities should be trained how to identify a threat in the community,” he said. “[They] should be organised in such a way that they can defend themselves from any threat or attack before the government forces arrive to secure them.”