Embera-Chami in Colombia

People Name:	Embera-Chami
Country:	Colombia
10/40 Window:	No
Population:	6,100
World Population:	6,100
Primary Language:	Embera-Chami
Primary Religion:	Ethnic Religions
Christian Adherents:	45.00 %
Evangelicals:	1.50 %
Scripture:	New Testament
Ministry Resources:	Yes
Jesus Film:	No
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-Chami. However, one of the main differences between the various Embera groups is location. There are five Embera dialects and locations.
Before the Spanish conquest the Embera-Chami people worked communally and did not have a concept of personal property. They were driven into the jungle where they had to adapt to a new climate.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Today the Embera-Chami 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-Chami 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.
They love crafts, especially those involving weaving and bead work. Much of their work carries symbolic meaning, especially with the colors they chose. Women wear an okama necklace that tells her life story. Girls receive their first okama necklace when they have their first period. Their bracelets and earrings include amulets intended to protect them and bring good luck. 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 Embera-Chami people are Roman Catholic, but the other half are committed to their traditional religion. Even those who are Roman Catholic usually practice their old religion on occasion.

What Are Their Needs?

The Embera-Chami people need protection from outsiders, especially rebel groups that threaten them from jungle hideouts.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Lord’s protect for the Embera-Chami people.
Pray for justice and mercy for these vulnerable people.
Pray for the Lord to raise up Embera-Chami Christian believers to disciple others in the ways of Christ.