Luhya, Kabras in Kenya

Luhya, Kabras
Photo Source:  Gascon family 
Send Joshua Project a map of this people group.
People Name: Luhya, Kabras
Country: Kenya
10/40 Window: No
Population: 146,000
World Population: 146,000
Primary Language: Lukabaras
Primary Religion: Christianity
Christian Adherents: 90.00 %
Evangelicals: 43.00 %
Scripture: Portions
Ministry Resources: No
Jesus Film: Yes
Audio Recordings: No
People Cluster: Bantu, Central-Lakes
Affinity Bloc: Sub-Saharan Peoples
Progress Level:

Introduction / History

The Kabras, or Kabarasi, are a tribe in Kenya. They are a Bantu-related group.

"Before the colonial era, the Kabras were under the rulership of Nabongo Mumia, the king of the Wanga. They were represented by an elder in his Council of Elders. The last known elder in the kings council was Soita Libukana Samaramarami. The Kabras are said to have originally been Banyala."

They are located in Malava, in the Kabras Division of Kakamega District in Kenya. They are located between the Kakamega and Webuye townships. Their language is Lukabaras.

What Are Their Lives Like?

They raise and keep livestock as well as farm maize, sugar cane and other crops.

They are quick to integrate others' values and beliefs.

Boys are circumcised. There is a bride price before weddings.

What Are Their Beliefs?

A good number still practice traditional beliefs and practices regarding circumcision and marriages. Others practice the Christian faith or Islam. Some are turning to the ancient Bahai religion. There is a Bahai temple nearby.

What Are Their Needs?

They need scriptures, hymnals, and other literature in their mother tongue. Though they have a New Testament, they need a complete Bible.

Prayer Points

Pray for the progress of Bible translation and literacy.
Pray for increased availability of translation resources for the Kabras Luhyas.
Pray for them to have the spiritual discernment to focus on Jesus and not be swayed to the left or to the right.

Text Source:   Joshua Project