Mbuku in Congo, Republic of the

Introduction / History

The Mbuku people of the Republic of the Congo in Africa live primarily in the forests of the Congo Basin, surrounded by dense vegetation and rivers. There were part of the Bantu migrations during which people groups spread across sub-Saharan Africa. They speak primarily Mboko in local villages but use Lingala and French for trade.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Mbuku men fish the local streams and rivers daily. They also farm crops such as cassava, rice, and plantains. Cash crops include coffee, tobacco, and cocoa. In addition, many families raise poultry, sheep, and goats. Cooking cassava is a social activity for the women. Villages are comprised of extended kinship networks in which child-rearing and labor are shared, especially during harvest season.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Most of the Mbuku claim to be Christian, yet they continue to engage in animistic ceremonies and traditions, including worshipping ancestors.

What Are Their Needs?

The Mbuku struggle economically because of a lack of educational opportunities and their remote location. During the rainy season, roads become impassable and river travel is the only means of reaching other villages for healthcare and trade.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Mbuku to have the opportunity to hear the gospel and be set free from their animistic religious practices.
Pray for churches to be planted and for the Mbuku to become a missionary force to surrounding people groups in the Republic of Congo and beyond.
Pray for the Holy Spirit to move powerfully in their families and churches, drawing hundreds to Jesus Christ.

Text Source:   Joshua Project