Summary
Southern Pashtuns live primarily in Afghanistan and Pakistan, with a significant diaspora in the Arab Gulf and many Western countries. In the Arab Gulf, they are most likely to migrate to the UAE. The UAE has had good relations with Afghanistan for many decades and has been taking in Afghan refugees since the days of the Soviet invasion in 1979. Many Pashtuns arrived with very little except business savvy, but have put it to good use. Pashtuns are involved in a variety of businesses, including restaurants, car rentals, shops, jewelry, and real estate.
Ministry Obstacles
Southern Pashtuns live in a solidly Islamic environment. Even those living in the West are usually surrounded by other Muslims who reinforce Islamic thinking. Although seeds of the gospel have been planted among the Pashtun, social and cultural barriers remain.
And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell.
Matthew 10:28
Pray
Pray for believers in today’s people group to be courageous in their witness for Christ and fear God, not men.
Pray for accuracy in Bible translations in progress. Pray for more workers to serve among the Pashtun in the UAE—in education, business, healthcare, development, and other professional areas. Pray for God's Spirit to strengthen and protect new believers and empower them to be witnesses.
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