Embera-Catio, Katio in Colombia

People Name:	Embera-Catio, Katio
Country:	Colombia
10/40 Window:	No
Population:	49,000
World Population:	49,000
Primary Language:	Embera-Catio
Primary Religion:	Ethnic Religions
Christian Adherents:	45.00 %
Evangelicals:	1.50 %
Scripture:	Portions
Ministry Resources:	Yes
Jesus Film:	Yes
Audio Recordings:	Yes
People Cluster:	South American Indigenous
Affinity Bloc:	Latin-Caribbean Americans
Progress Level:

Introduction / History

One of the subgroups of the Embera is the Chami. Their language is Embera-Catio. One of the main differences between the various Embera groups is location. There are five Embera dialects and locations.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Today the Embera-Catio are vulnerable to armed rebels who live in the jungles of Colombia. The Embera-Chami are vulnerable to those who want to use their land to harvest rubber, minerals, etc.
They cook either with an open fire or with a propane stove. The Embera-Catio diet is rich in plantains and fish. They also eat tropical and citrus fruits. Their homes are usually made from natural materials, but sometimes they have a cement foundation and tin roofs.
There have been issues of female genital mutilation (FGM) among some Embera groups. These situations are usually done in secret, but sometimes they become well-known. The Embera are the only people in Latin America who practice FGM.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Almost half of the Katio Embera-Catio are Roman Catholic, but they usually also practice indigenous religion. The other half adhere to their traditional religion.

What Are Their Needs?

The Katio Embera-Catio people need protection from outsiders who want to use their land and their people.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Lord to protect all Embera groups from rebels who come to kill, steal and destroy.
Pray for the Lord to provide mercy and just for the Katio Embera-Catio people.
Pray for Katio Embera-Catio followers of Christ to make disciples of others.