Bambili in Cameroon

Introduction / History

A visitor to Bambui village is likely to receive a warm reception from these friendly, hospitable people. The village situated along the Ring Road northeast of Bamenda. This is an anglophone area (schoolchildren are taught in English), and the use of Pidgin English is widespread. English and Pidgin play a significant role in community life, but the Bambui language still maintains its place as the heart language of most Bambui people.

Bambui people have a lot of contact with speakers of other languages. Bambui is surrounded by a number of related languages (Bambili, Babanki, Bafut, Mankon, Nkwen, Mendankwe and Awing). Bambui was thought to be a dialect of Bambili, but now it is believed that the two are probably distinct languages (and each group insists on its independent identity). Their attitudes toward literacy are very favorable. Interviewees said that they would appreciate being able to read and write all of the neighboring languages that they speak and understand. The greatest resource of the Bambui people is their access to higher education.

Being mostly subsistence agriculturalists, the general population is far from being wealthy. Yet they do have a good number of highly educated individuals. Bambui has a seminary, and the many higher education institutions of Bambili are nearby. Bambui is situated on a good road, making transportation to and from the nearby city of Bamenda quite easy. People have access to healthcare at a subdivisional hospital and two community dispensaries.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The majority of Bambui people see themselves as Christians, belonging to several churches: Catholic, Presbyterian, Baptist, Apostolic, and Full Gospel. Christians are eager to have God's Word in their language. Reportedly, many Scripture portions and doctrinal teachings have been translated into Mbui. Church leaders are enthusiastic say they hope to complete the entire Bible, though they have no training in linguistics or principles of translation.

Prayer Points

Pray that the initiative the Bambui people have shown for Bible translation will continue and result in high quality translated Scriptures that will speak to Bambui people's hearts.
Thank God for the reported unity between Christians of various denominations; pray for this to continue.
Pray for increased freedom from the spiritual bondage of traditional religions.
Pray that the Jehovah's Witnesses and members of the Bahai Faith will not continue to influence the Bambui people.

Text Source:   Anonymous