Introduction / History

The Poussang are an isolated, little-known people. They claim they originally came from China, as do all Tibeto-Burman speaking groups in Southeast Asia, but there is no record of a group by this name in China today. There are two separate areas of Poussang habitation in northern Laos. Most of them live at the juncture of four districts in the southern part of Phongsali Province. Another community of Poussang lives in the Namo District of Oudomxai Province. The villages of the Poussang are in isolated forests, situated at altitudes between 800-1,200 meters (2,620-3,930 feet) above sea-level.

The Poussang language belongs to the Tibeto-Burman language family. It has never been studied in detail, but experts believe it to be partially related to Akha and possibly Lahu.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Information about the Poussang is scarce because the Lao government does not recognize them as a distinct ethnic group. In 1993, most Poussang people still did not use Lao money, but rather used goods to barter and trade with other groups. Their nearest neighbors are the Akha, Lu and Khmu.

Pre-marital sexual relations are encouraged by the Poussang elders, who also organize religious ceremonies and decide what new ideas should be allowed into their communities. The homes of the Poussang are constructed of bamboo and wood.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Poussang perform animistic rites whenever they build a new house, to ask the blessings of the spirits on the home and its occupants.

The Poussang are animists. They also worship their ancestors at set times throughout the year.

What Are Their Needs?

There are no known Christians among the Poussang. They are still waiting to hear the news of Jesus Christ for the first time throughout their long and difficult history.

Prayer Points

Pray for spiritual discernment and hunger among the Poussang people.

Ask God to send evangelists to the Poussang soon who will make disciples who will make even more disciples.

Pray the Poussang elders would not feel threatened by the introduction of the gospel but would welcome it.

Pray the Lord will make himself known to the Poussang people by providing an abundant harvest this year.

Scripture Prayers for the Poussang in Laos.