Sudan​—Growth Under Hardship

It had taken two years, from August 1974 to 1976, to reach a new peak of 101 publishers in the Sudan. Tense moments characterized this period. Coup attempts were frequent, political suspicions were rife. At times publishers and elders were interrogated by police. Economic difficulties, with rising prices and shortages of goods, created material worries that enslaved many. Thus, publisher growth came slowly. By April 1981 the peak was only 102.

In 1982 a pioneer spirit was kindled. This resulted in an overflow of blessings. In five years, the number of pioneers increased to 86, up from 7. During one month, 39 percent of all publishers were in full-time service, and that was one of the hottest months of the year, with average noon temperatures of over 100° F [40° C.]. By 1987 over 300 publishers were active, and almost 1,000 attended the Memorial of Christ’s death. Congregation publishers averaged 20 hours in the field ministry each month.

Scores of young men made rapid spiritual progress and qualified for appointment as ministerial servants and, in time, as elders, thus further strengthening the congregations. In 1987, finally, a congregation was established across the Nile in historic Omdurman. The congregation had a territory of one million people. Also, in the city of Port Sudan, a group of Witnesses sprang up.

Most of the growth, however, has come from the southerners, tall dark-skinned people of athletic build who are often marked with abundant incisions and decorations on their face or body. Northern Sudanese or those of Egyptian stock have accepted the truth too, and various refugees have seen the light of God’s hope for mankind. All groups have shown zeal and endurance in Jehovah’s service.