The Republic of Colombia is bordered by Ecuador to the southwest, Brazil to the south, Venezuela to the east, and Panama to the north. It also borders both the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean along the northern coasts. The geography of the country ranges from the Andes Mountains running through the middle of Colombia, to the Llanos plains in the east and the Amazon Rainforest in the south. Though the Llanos Plains in the east and the rainforests in the south make up most of the country, the majority of the population lives in the north and northwest where the major cities are located, including the capital city of Bogota as well as the cities of Cali, Medellin, and Barranquilla.

Thankfully, the degree of conflict and political violence has significantly lessened in Colombia since 2005. However, the country continues to face a number of challenges. Colombia is still the world’s top cocaine producer and is a major source of heroin and marijuana. As a result of the drug trade and internal conflict, nearly 7.6 million people have been displaced over the last several decades. Additionally, as of mid-2021, nearly 2 million Venezuelan refugees have entered Colombia seeking asylum in the midst of the economic crisis in their own country. While it has considerable economic potential—it is the fourth largest oil producer in Latin America, the fourth largest coal producer in the world, and the second largest cut flower exporter—Colombia is also one of the lowest ranking countries in the world when it comes to income equality. Currently, more than a third of the country lives below the poverty line.

Despite these challenges, the church is being built up and expanding. God has raised up a number of healthy, biblical seminaries that are assisting local churches in the process of equipping qualified pastors. Local churches are being planted and reformed in many of the cities and towns across the country. God has been gracious to allow HeartCry to support and come alongside the faithful efforts of local churches in Colombia in the work of the Great Commission.

*Sources: Wikipedia and CIA World Factbook