Sisaala, Pasaale in Ghana
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| People Name: | Sisaala, Pasaale |
| Country: | Ghana |
| 10/40 Window: | No |
| Population: | 63,000 |
| World Population: | 63,000 |
| Primary Language: | Paasaal |
| Primary Religion: | Ethnic Religions |
| Christian Adherents: | 10.00 % |
| Evangelicals: | 1.50 % |
| Scripture: | New Testament |
| Ministry Resources: | Yes |
| Jesus Film: | Yes |
| Audio Recordings: | Yes |
| People Cluster: | Gur |
| Affinity Bloc: | Sub-Saharan Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
The Pasaale people live in the dry savannah and rolling hills of the upper west region of Ghana, in the Funsi-Kundugu division area. They are of the Sissala- Grunshie tribe in the Wa district. Nearly all 18 of the Pasaale villages are built on flat hill tops, so the actual villages are on level ground.
What Are Their Lives Like?
The Pasaale are subsistence farmers. There is a public school system with 11 primary schools and 6 junior secondary schools in the area. The village of Funsi has a Catholic primary school and a junior secondary school. Though 50% of children begin school, only 10-20% complete junior secondary school. The adult literacy rate is less than 2%.
In Pasaale culture, marriage is seen as a permanent life union between husband and wife. Having one wife is a sign of laziness because to the Pasaale man, many wives represent greatness and are a source of pride. About 50% of the men are polygamous. The purpose of marriage to the Pasaale people is to get children and to provide a labor force for the husband. Divorce is not legally accepted when a marriage is contracted unless gross contempt is shown for the girl's family or vice versa. Should a woman be willfully divorced by her husband, all girls from the village will be called home in protest.
What Are Their Beliefs?
In Pasaale culture, women have no religion and their salvation depends on how well they obey their husbands. Intimate discussions with a wife are frowned upon by the community. For instance, eating together with one's wife is a good reason for being left out during important meetings, because they fear that one will disclose family secrets to one's wife.
About 80% of the Pasaale people believe in traditional religion. Islam accounts for about 10% while the rest are Christians. The Catholic Church pioneered missions in the Pasaale area.
What Are Their Needs?
The Pasaales need to understand that Jesus Christ offers the guidance they need. Their families need help since women have so little power or respect.
Prayer Points
Pray for Pasaale men to understand that the Bible offers true guidance for their families.
Pray for Pasaale disciples to make more disciples.
Pray for them to have such a spiritual hunger that they will put Christ first in their families and communities.