Church of Jesus Christ see 120% surge in African members, The Economist reveals

In a new article published by The Economist, it reveals that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has experienced a remarkable surge in Africa over the past decade. Between 2011 and 2021, membership on the continent grew by 120%, significantly outpacing the global growth rate of 19% during the same period.

The rapid expansion has made Africa one of the most important regions for the church’s future growth. Demographer Matt Martinich, who runs a blog devoted to the church, points out that nine of the ten countries where the church is growing fastest are located on the African continent.

The Church attribute the growth to a combination of active missionary work, community engagement, and the appeal of its teachings among diverse African populations. Experts say this surge reflects a broader trend of Christianity expanding in sub-Saharan Africa, where religious movements continue to attract large numbers of new adherents.

As The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints continues to expand its presence in Africa, the continent is poised to play a central role in the church’s global membership and influence in the years ahead.