Introduction / History

There are both Northern and Southern Katang people living in Laos. Though they have their similarities, they speak a slightly different language.

Where Are they Located?

The Southern Katang people only live in Laos.

What Are Their Lives Like?

In some of the more remote locations, the Katang live in houses made of braided leaves. In recent decades, however, many Katang have moved down from the hills onto the plains, where they have lost much of their cultural heritage and are on the way to assimilation to Lao culture and language.

Some aspects of Katang culture that are presently under threat includes the traditional Katang longhouse. For centuries extended families of Katang have lived under one roof. When they married, the house would be extended to accommodate the new couple and any children they would later have. At Tumlan Village, 40 km north of Saravan township, tourists can still visit a 100 meter (328 feet) long longhouse, which contains thirty different families. Traditional Katang textiles, which feature numerous narrow bands of colors and patterns, are also produced there and sold to the Western and Asian tourists who pass through the area.

The Katang, both men and women, have for centuries stretched their earlobes and inserted large bamboo tubes in for decoration. This too, is rarely seen among young Katang today. The Katang people are in the process of adopting the Laotian language and lifestyle.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Southern Katang religion involves shamanism and animism, both of which involve dependence on spirits that are in opposition to the Lord. Many of the Southern Katang have adopted beliefs from Buddhism, and some of the related Northern Katang have become Christians.

What Are Their Needs?

The Southern Katang people need to put their identity in the God of Creation. They need to turn to Him for all of their needs.

Prayer Points

Pray for workers who are filled with the fruit and the power of the Holy Spirit to go to the Southern Katang people in Laos.
Pray for his kingdom to come and his will to be done among the Southern Katang people in Laos.
Pray for a movement of Southern Katang households to study the Bible and accept the blessings of Christ.
Pray for a spiritual hunger that will drive the Southern Katang people to the arms of Jesus.

Scripture Prayers for the Katang, Southern in Laos.