Esimbi in Cameroon

Introduction / History

The Esimbi homeland is an isolated pocket of villages and hamlets. Hilly terrain, a single rugged dirt road, and narrow footpaths make travel challenging. The Esimbi are the last people on the road to Nigeria. Due largely to the remoteness of the area, they are often looked down on by other Cameroonians.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Their livelihood is farming by hand; peanuts are a cash crop. Families fight for survival. Malnutrition is common due to insufficient protein supplies and a high starch diet. Theirs is a very hospitable society where people place a high value on harmonious relationships.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Traditionally the people are animistic, and fear is the major, unifying control element of society. Christianity is a relatively new influence, introduced in the last half of the twentieth century. Traditionally, the Esimbi believe in the existence of God, but ultimately they do not think that he will better their individual lives. Instead they believe that it is their dead ancestors from whom they must seek assistance for their material needs, and they do this constantly. They believe that the powers of the spirit world are more predictable than earthly powers, and that failure to perform specific rituals of appeasement may result in dire consequences.

Traditional religion is often mixed with Christianity. This syncretism is very acceptable to many Esimbi. Nominalism is widespread among churchgoers.

What Are Their Needs?

The Esimbi need their fears to be replaced with a firm belief in God's superiority, resulting in a strong trust in God. They need assurance that God is in complete control of everything that even remotely affects or influences them. They must be convinced that the power of Jesus is stronger than their fears.

The Esimbi struggle to understand many of the foreign words and concepts in the English Bible. An Esimbi Bible translation will personalize God's priceless message to Esimbi men, women, boys and girls.

Prayer Points

Pray that God will impress on the Esimbi his ability to completely protect them so that they might truly trust him and walk in his freedom.
Earnestly ask God to break the strong bonds of witchcraft.
Pray that he will give church leaders wisdom to transition believers away from ungodly thought patterns and lifestyles.
Pray that his special favor will prosper the Bible translation, giving meaningful clarity to his message, saving souls, and maturing and empowering believers.
Esimbi pastors and their families face special challenges

Text Source:   Pioneers