Occupying the alarming number 2 position on the Open Doors organization’s global religious persecution list, Somalia is an extremely dangerous country for a Christian to live in, making a former Muslim a target of local extremist group Al-Shabaab . .
The testimony of Rooble, a Somali Christian who converted to Jesus Christ after comparing the teachings of the Bible with the Koran, is a clear example of the terror experienced by the followers of the Messiah in his country.
In Somalia 99% of the population follows Islam and there are no Christian churches, as extremists have launched a real hunt for Christians. When discovered, followers of Christ are persecuted, intimidated, and often killed.
Rooble was born into a Muslim family and was indoctrinated into Islam. “I had also put my whole heart into the teachings, my whole life was engaged in them, seeking eternal life and salvation and how I could enter heaven. My family and I were doing a lot to ensure that the Quran took us to heaven,” he told Open Doors contributors.
Conversion
However, everything changed in Rooble’s life when he managed to secretly obtain a Bible to compare its teachings. By studying the Word of God, however, he realized that Jesus Christ was, in fact, the Messiah, being the incarnation of the Lord Himself on Earth.
“I started testing these Scriptures and also showed them to other people, who believed in Jesus even before me. It took me four years going back and forth. I was angry at the people who gave me the Bible, but I still saw that it contained some truth, so I started doing some research. Ultimately, I understood that Jesus was the truth and the way to salvation,” he said.
The radical change, however, began a wave of persecution of the new convert, including the expulsion of his family. He had to move several times to escape the fury of the extremists, but was detained and brutally tortured because of his faith.
“They often beat me while I was lying on the floor. Sometimes they beat me until I vomited blood. I suffered a lot,” he recalls. Despite intense suffering, Rooble continued to tell other people about Jesus whenever he had the opportunity.
Once, however, he was reported to the local authorities. «As soon as they heard about the preaching, they arrested me and my brother, who was also converted. They threw us into two separate pits,” he said.
“While we were there, no one fed us. They covered the wells. It was very hot in there and there was a smell of the dead,” recalls the ex-Muslim, who managed to survive, but lost his brother, killed by extremists.
Rooble now remains an ex-Muslim secretly living in Somalia. He receives support from Open Doors, but needs the prayers of his brothers in Christ to remain steadfast in the face of great persecution.
“I live among Muslims, so I serve secretly. This makes life very difficult. It’s a dangerous place, very difficult for me and my children. I can only handle it because of my faith. Pray for Somalis who have been saved and are facing persecution. I’m in danger.” concluded.
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Religious Persecution Expert
Time.news Editor: Welcome, and thank you for joining us today to discuss the alarming situation for Christians in Somalia, particularly highlighted by the story of Rooble, a former Muslim who converted to Christianity under extremely dangerous circumstances. Let’s start with a brief overview. Somalia ranks second on the Open Doors organization’s global religious persecution list. What does this ranking indicate about the environment for religious minorities in the country?
Expert: Thank you for having me. The ranking reflects a severe climate of fear and oppression for Christians in Somalia. The overwhelming majority of the population, around 99%, follows Islam, and there are no official Christian churches. Instead, extremist groups like Al-Shabaab actively hunt down Christians, viewing their faith as a direct threat to Islamic doctrine. This atmosphere creates a perilous existence for any Somali who chooses to convert to Christianity.
Time.news Editor: Rooble’s testimony is indeed harrowing. He spoke about being indoctrinated into Islam and dedicating his life to its teachings before making the courageous decision to read the Bible. Can you talk about the risks he faced during his conversion process?
Expert: Absolutely. Rooble’s journey is significant both spiritually and contextually. His ability to quietly obtain a Bible—and then compare its teachings to the Quran—was a monumental risk. He was not only challenging deeply-rooted beliefs but also placing himself in danger. In a society where conversion can lead to intimidation, violence, or even execution, the act of exploring Christianity is immensely risky. Rooble faced the dual threat of being disowned by his family and hunted by extremists.
Time.news Editor: That’s incredibly brave of him. He mentioned a four-year struggle before fully embracing his new faith. What does this lengthy process tell us about the challenges faced by converts in such oppressive environments?
Expert: Rooble’s four-year journey illustrates the depth of conflict that arises within individuals who convert from Islam to Christianity, particularly in a hostile environment. It represents both an emotional and intellectual struggle. He grappled with anger towards those who introduced him to Christianity, and he meticulously researched scripture before coming to a conclusion. This is common; many believers face isolation, mental turmoil, and the fear of repercussions. It highlights the importance of having a supportive community, which is unfortunately scarce in Somalia.
Time.news Editor: It’s heartbreaking to hear how his faith journey was intertwined with so much fear and uncertainty. Given this environment of persecution, what can be done to support Christians in Somalia and raise awareness about their plight?
Expert: Raising awareness is critical. Organizations like Open Doors are key to advocating for these vulnerable individuals by documenting their experiences and providing resources. International pressure can also play a role in pushing for human rights and freedoms in Somalia. Supporting underground churches and safe houses, as well as providing aid to convert refugees, can make a substantial difference. Additionally, spreading education and information so that more people understand the consequences of such persecution is essential for fostering global compassion and empathy.
Time.news Editor: Thank you for your insights. The story of Rooble and others like him reminds us of the devastating realities facing believers in regions dominated by extremism. It’s crucial that we continue to push for awareness and advocate for the rights of religious minorities.
Expert: Absolutely, and thank you for shedding light on this important issue. Every voice counts in the fight against religious persecution.
Time.news Editor: Thank you again for joining us and for your invaluable expertise. Let’s hope the world takes notice and stands up for those like Rooble, who seek to live out their faith without fear.