Yaka, Iyaka in Congo, Republic of the

People Name:	Yaka, Iyaka
Country:	Congo, Republic of the
10/40 Window:	No
Population:	43,000
World Population:	43,000
Primary Language:	Yaka (Congo)
Primary Religion:	Christianity
Christian Adherents:	95.00 %
Evangelicals:	0.80 %
Scripture:	Portions
Online Audio NT:	Yes
Jesus Film:	Yes
Audio Recordings:	Yes
People Cluster:	Bantu, Northwest
Affinity Bloc:	Sub-Saharan Peoples
Progress Level:

Introduction / History

The Iyaka are better known as the Yaka. They live in the Republic of the Congo in central Africa.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Rural Yaka people survive by hunting, fishing and subsistence agriculture. The men migrate to urban centers like Kinshasa for work where they engage in trade. Men who live in rural areas are given high status when they are successful hunters.
One of the ways the Yaka make a living is through their various crafts which are imitated by neighboring tribes. These crafts can be wood carvings, baskets, metal goods or woven baskets. They are well known for their bulky but well-made masks.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Almost all Yaka people would identify as Christian, but very few are Evangelical. Traditional religion still has a hold on them. Their masks have spiritual meaning, and they are used for African religious ceremonies.

What Are Their Needs?

The Yaka people need to put all their trust in Jesus Christ for their physical and spiritual needs.

Prayer Points

Pray for a Holy Spirit sent revival within Yaka churches leading many to love and obey the Lord of lords.
Pray for Yaka followers of Christ to disciple others in Christ’s ways.
Pray for the Lord to give them an abundant harvest this year as a testimony of his power and goodness. May the respond with praise!