Gwama in Ethiopia

People Name:	Gwama
Country:	Ethiopia
10/40 Window:	Yes
Population:	12,000
World Population:	12,000
Primary Language:	Gwama
Primary Religion:	Islam
Christian Adherents:	0.00 %
Evangelicals:	0.00 %
Scripture:	Portions
Online Audio NT:	Yes
Jesus Film:	No
Audio Recordings:	Yes
People Cluster:	Nilotic
Affinity Bloc:	Sub-Saharan Peoples
Progress Level:

Introduction / History

Gwama is also called Kwama. It is the name of a language spoken by a people group of the same name.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Gwama are a mostly rural people living in the highlands on both sides of the border between Sudan and Ethiopia. They are predominantly farmers. Literacy rates are low, although many have expressed interest for learning to read in their mother tongues, as well as learning other languages for wider communication. It seems that there are two Gwama languages, both still used as first languages for all speakers in their respective groups. There is probably a need for a Bible translation. Many men have some proficiency in a second language, but the women are more likely not to and materials are needed and desired in their mother tongues.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Most are Muslim, but there are also followers of the traditional religion and these two may also be integrated in some ways. There is no mission work, foreign or national.

What Are Their Needs?

Gwama villages usually have no electricity. Medical care is poor, and access to medicine is limited. Their water supply comes from rivers and springs. Sometimes this water carries germs and disease-causing bacteria.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Lord to give the Gwama people an abundant harvest this year as a testimony of his power and lovingkindness.
Pray for a spiritual hunger that will drive the Gwama families into the loving arms of Jesus.
Pray for Holy Spirit sent workers to go to the Gwama people in Ethiopia.
Pray for a movement to Christ to give them abundant blessings.