Introduction / History

The Banda are the largest group in the Central African Republic (CAR) but they also live in the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan and Cameroon. They are divided by subgroups determined by dialect. They have at least 11 subgroups in the CAR, although that number might not be precise. One of these subgroups is the Banda-Mbres.

Traditionally they didn t have a chief until one was needed for military purposes, much like Israel before the advent of kings. They were adversely affected by the slave trade as early as the 1100s when Muslim traders took them by force. Killings and enslavements during that era left them depopulated or moved to other parts of Africa. The 1800s saw European colonialists who also enslaved them and used them as cheap labor.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Today, the Banda-Mbres are usually fishermen and farmers who grow cotton, cassava, melons, millet, okra and yams. They are also hunters and gathers who collect timber and honey for sale.

They are well known for their artistic talents. They produce carved goods from wood and drums from animal skins.

As a patrilineal culture, the Bandas give inheritance to the sons of the same father. Marriages involve a dowry, usually metal goods.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Banda-Mbres are well-Christianized, and their allegiance is to Catholic or Protestant churches. They maintain animistic beliefs as well, making sacrifices to ancestral spirits that they believe can destroy or help one in times of need, such as harvest time. Some use magic and charms.

What Are Their Needs?

Banda-Mbres people need to put all their faith in Jesus Christ. They can be used by God to take Christ to those without a gospel witness.

Prayer Points

Pray for a record-high harvest for the Banda-Mbres as a testimony of God s power and goodness.
Pray for the Holy Spirit to thrust out Banda-Mbres evangelists and disciplers to draw others to the Throne of Grace.
Pray for a spiritual revival in Banda churches that will give them the peace and joy of the Holy Spirit.
Pray for the Banda people to put all their faith in Jesus Christ and share their faith with others.

Scripture Prayers for the Banda-Mbres in South Sudan.

References

https://www.101lasttribes.com/tribes/banda.html
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Banda_people
https://www.britannica.com/topic/Banda-people