Benkonjo in Central African Republic
Photo Source:
Erik Laursen, New Covenant Missions
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Map Source:
Anonymous
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| People Name: | Benkonjo |
| Country: | Central African Republic |
| 10/40 Window: | No |
| Population: | 3,400 |
| World Population: | 3,400 |
| Primary Language: | Ukhwejo |
| Primary Religion: | Christianity |
| Christian Adherents: | 77.00 % |
| Evangelicals: | 22.10 % |
| Scripture: | Translation Needed |
| Ministry Resources: | No |
| Jesus Film: | No |
| Audio Recordings: | No |
| People Cluster: | Bantu, Northwest |
| Affinity Bloc: | Sub-Saharan Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
According to a legend of the Benkonjo, there was a tribal war between themselves and another people. The war was intense and the Benkonjo wanted to flee across a deep river. As there was no bridge, one of the Long-et-Long people (which means "twins" or "snake") turned into a bridge, allowing all of the people to cross the river to safety.
UKWEJO means "hard" or "iron" in the Ukhwejo language which is spoken by the Benkonjo people group of the Central African Republic. They call themselves Mboungondjo, and are actually a fusion of five tribes: the Mikororos, Yakokis-Djaro, Peleng, Kanang and Long-et-Long.
For the past 100 years, the Benkonjo people have lived in the Nguoulo village in the town of Nola. Their original village was Wangoh, but because of the railroad constructed by settlers, they had to move to Ngoulo. Benkonjos are now in the Central African Republic.
The majority of Benkonjo people mainly communicate in their own Ukhwejo Language. However, many will use Sango as a language of exchange and integration into the surrounding society. The Benkonjo consider anyone who does not speak their language to be a foreigner so it would be best for them to be reached by a native speaker.
What Are Their Lives Like?
To this day, their main activities are fishing and farming. They are governed by traditional chiefs. They are a solitary people who prefer to live on the margins of other peoples' land and villages.
What Are Their Beliefs?
When work began among the Benkonjo there were only 3 believers. Today they are overwhelmingly Christian. Most of the Benkonjo practice animism, worshiping two spirits called Mololo and Soh.
What Are Their Needs?
It would be best for the few native believers to lead their own church. There is a need for discipleship.
85% of the people are illiterate and there is no government effort to establish schools for them. There is no scripture in the Ukhwejo language.
Prayer Points
Pray for Benkonjo Christians to disciple others and train the next generation to do the same.
Pray for the Holy Spirit to move mightily in Benkonjo home groups and churches, moving them to discipleship and mission work throughout Central Africa.