Lagwan, Afade in Cameroon

People Name:	Lagwan, Afade
Country:	Cameroon
10/40 Window:	No
Population:	8,200
World Population:	54,200
Primary Language:	Afade
Primary Religion:	Islam
Christian Adherents:	4.00 %
Evangelicals:	0.60 %
Scripture:	Translation Needed
Ministry Resources:	No
Jesus Film:	No
Audio Recordings:	Yes
People Cluster:	Chadic
Affinity Bloc:	Sub-Saharan Peoples
Progress Level:

Introduction / History

The Lagwan Kotoko people live in the northern part of Cameroon, in an area a little south of Lake Chad. Their language area extends into Nigeria to the west. They speak Afade, which linguistically is one of eight Kotoko languages. Afade speakers refer to themselves ethnically as Kotoko. A Latin script writing system has been developed for Afade but it is not currently in use.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Traditional rulers in the area are called sultans. Rulers of smaller regions are called blamas. The town of Afade is the hub of the language area with a few surrounding villages. Several Lagwan Kotoko also live in the larger cities of Cameroon, Nigeria, and Chad.
The Kotoko are traditionally fishermen and farmers, making use of the seasonal rivers that flow in the area to irrigate their fields. It can be very difficult to access the language area during rainy season (June-September). Those with more wealth own cattle.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Islam dominates as the primary religion, with a good deal of syncretism with animism. Some of them chant verses from the Koran hoping it will bring healing. It is not known if there are any Christians among them. There was a Nigerian missionary reaching out to the Kotoko but he was killed by the Boko Haram in 2011.

What Are Their Needs?

The Lagwan Kotoko people need to put their faith in Jesus Christ so they can enjoy life to the full. As it stands, they put their faith in dark spirits for their blessings.

Prayer Points

Pray for an abundant harvest of fish and grain for the Lagwan Kotoko people as proof of God's power and love.
Pray for a movement to Christ among them that will bless their community in every way.
Pray for the Lord to thrust out Holy Spirit empowered workers among the Lagwan Kotoko in Nigeria.
Pray for their leaders to embrace the ways of Jesus Christ.