Abidjan Deteriorates, FATEAC Closes Temporarily

Escalating violence—fallout from Côte d’Ivoire’s failed November political elections—has resulted in hundreds of deaths and an estimated 200,000 people having fled the country’s capital, Abidjan, where West Africa Alliance Theological Seminary (FATEAC) is located.

In the wake of increasing violence in Abidjan, FATEAC canceled classes Monday and Tuesday of this week (March 28–29). “Pray for God’s protection and provision for the whole FATEAC family,” said the school’s international team leaders Laura and Jeter Livingston this week.

The Livingstons are one of three couples comprising the international FATEAC team, which is presently relocated to Dakar, Senegal

“We are very thankful that the whole team was able to finish the first semester and start on the second, leaving work to do while we are gone,” the Livingstons said. “In light of classes resuming on Wednesday (March 30), pray for us, and for the Harrisons, as we seek God’s face about a possible return to FATEAC on April 2.”   

Political Backstory

FATEAC team members Cynthia and Matthew Cook described conditions in Abidjan. “The most recent exodus was started when the government asked young Ivoirian men to enlist in the military; these are militant, undisciplined supporters of Gbagbo, who has continued to hold on to power since losing last fall’s election. 

“Opposition leader Ouatarra is supported by the United Nations, the African Union, and the United States as Côte d’Ivoire’s duly elected president, but he lives in a hotel and has no actual power in the country. Meanwhile, Gbagbo retains control of the government, army, and police. He refuses to step down. Thus, the followers of these two men continue to fight on the streets,” said the Cooks.

Pray for FATEAC teachers and students to have wisdom in making decisions that will impact many lives. Pray for their safety. Pray for Peace!”

One More Thing You Can Do

Give to Alliance Great Commission Ministries. In doing so, you partner with Alliance international workers—like our teams in Africa—to share the good news of Christ’s reconciling power with those desperate for hope.

Learn More

Read more background information about Côte d’Ivoire’s November elections and the FATEAC team’s response.

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