Congo Martyrs and the Cost of Mission
This article gives historical background on the turbulent end of colonial rule in sub-Saharan Africa, especially in the Belgian Congo. It explains how political instability shaped society and created dangerous conditions for missionaries serving during that era.
- Sub-Saharan Africa experienced major upheaval as nations moved away from European colonial rule.
- The Belgian Congo endured years of instability, rioting, and bloodshed before a more stable government emerged.
- Missionaries entered the Congo during this uncertain period and many suffered severely as “Congo Martyrs.”
By Bill Weber
See the Main Article: “Only One Life”
The End of Colonial Rule in Africa
In the 1960s the world witnessed the beginning of the end of colonialism in sub-Saharan Africa as one by one countries broke away from European administrative rule. In many of these countries, the transition to a national government was a very painful process. Wars were waged for independence as autonomy was rarely granted freely.
The various ethnic groups and political parties of these divided nations vied for control. Conflict with the colonial powers often escalated to violent power struggles within the country.
The changing landscape in Africa led to instability in these nations affecting all of society, from the highest levels of government in major cities to life in rural villages. Insufficient numbers of nationals were prepared, either by education or experience, to assume leadership roles in government, business, commerce, and international relations.
Instability in the Belgian Congo
The Belgian Congo experienced the end of colonial rule early. The movement toward Congolese nationals assuming more leadership roles began in the 1950s. In 1960 the Republic of the Congo was recognized as a country free from Belgium. Five more years of instability, rioting, and bloodshed followed until a more stable government came into power in 1965.
Missionaries and the Congo Martyrs
During these years of uncertainty, missionaries moved into the Congo eager to meet the great humanitarian needs and seeking opportunities for evangelism. Numerous missionaries were imprisoned, raped, tortured, and killed. They are often referred to as the “Congo Martyrs.”
Bill Weber teaches missions at Cincinnati (Ohio) Christian University.
