Simeku in Papua New Guinea
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| People Name: | Simeku |
| Country: | Papua New Guinea |
| 10/40 Window: | No |
| Population: | 5,200 |
| World Population: | 5,200 |
| Primary Language: | Simeku |
| Primary Religion: | Christianity |
| Christian Adherents: | 85.00 % |
| Evangelicals: | 13.00 % |
| Scripture: | Translation Needed |
| Ministry Resources: | No |
| Jesus Film: | No |
| Audio Recordings: | No |
| People Cluster: | New Guinea |
| Affinity Bloc: | Pacific Islanders |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
Simeku speakers live on either side of the mountain range that is west of the port town of Kieta. About one third of the Simeku people live on the east side of the mountains and speak the Mainuki dialect. On the west side of the range are those who speak the Kopei dialect. The Kopei villages are close to the main road that leads south to the Panguna copper mine area. The dialects are so different that the Simeku people may need at least two translations.
What Are Their Lives Like?
Panguna was one of the world's largest copper mines when it was in operation. It was shut in 1989 by a violent conflict between landowners and the national government. While peace was restored in 1998, the mine has not yet been reopened. Please pray for the aftermath of this conflict.
What Are Their Beliefs?
The Simeku people are Christian, but they need a complete Bible to fully understand their faith.
What Are Their Needs?
Many local people of Bougainville have been traumatized, including by the loss of loved ones. Please pray for healing.
Prayer Points
Pray that the people of Simeku put their total dependence on God, that through prayer they know the peace of God that guards their hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
Bougainville once led the nation as one of the most literate and highly educated provinces in the country. Pray for wisdom and resources as the people of Bougainville work to restore what the conflict has taken from them.
Pray that those among the Simeku who cannot read will be able to access God's word in audio format.
Pray for workers to bring God's word and God's love to the Simeku people.
May they know they are loved by their heavenly father!