Aringa in Uganda

People Name:	Aringa
Country:	Uganda
10/40 Window:	No
Population:	670,000
World Population:	670,000
Primary Language:	Aringa
Primary Religion:	Islam
Christian Adherents:	1.90 %
Evangelicals:	1.50 %
Scripture:	New Testament
Online Audio NT:	Yes
Jesus Film:	Yes
Audio Recordings:	Yes
People Cluster:	Sudanic
Affinity Bloc:	Sub-Saharan Peoples
Progress Level:

Introduction / History

Slave trade was practiced in Yumbe from around 1822 to 1919. In 1919, the Belgian government signed a treaty with the British government to abolish the trade. Idi Amin was from neighboring Koboko and became Uganda's president in the year 1971 and ruled up to 1979. He had a strong influence in Yumbe District.

There was no LRA in Yumbe but several rebel activities were led by others. For example, the West Nile Band front rebel group was led by Juma Aurish, UNRF I AND II were led by Brigadier Moses Ali and Major General Ali Bamuze, respectively. Effects of rebel activities in Yumbe were a reduction of manpower, destruction of property (including buildings, health centers, schools, etc.), displacement of people from their homes, poverty and hunger, religious conflicts (such as the wounding and killing of missionaries in 2001 and 2004). There is now peace, more cooperation and development.

Where Are they Located?

They are primarily located in Yumbe District which is in West Nile (Northwestern) Uganda. Yumbe District's northern border is with South Sudan. The Aringa are also scattered throughout the West Nile and, to a smaller degree, in the rest of Uganda with small numbers doing business in neighboring South Sudan.

What Are Their Lives Like?

They are traditionally hunters and cultivators and they keep small scale livestock, mainly for home use. A growing number are becoming businessmen. They typically have large families and are hard workers.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Aringa are primarily Muslim with a very small number of Christians. The Muslims response to evangelism is mixed. Some of them feel good and would like to become Christians but fear persecution from other Muslims. Others feel bad when they see Christians doing evangelism, they can chase them away from their homes, insult them, pay no attention to the message etc. Others pretend to have accepted the message for other personal gain such as money.

Prayer Points

Pray for growth of the church in depth and numbers.
Pray for the completion of the Old Testament translation, which is in progress. The New Testament is currently available in Aringa.