Dendi, Dandawa in Benin

People Name:	Dendi, Dandawa
Country:	Benin
10/40 Window:	Yes
Population:	310,000
World Population:	470,600
Primary Language:	Dendi (Benin)
Primary Religion:	Islam
Christian Adherents:	0.07 %
Evangelicals:	0.03 %
Scripture:	New Testament
Ministry Resources:	Yes
Jesus Film:	Yes
Audio Recordings:	Yes
People Cluster:	Songhai
Affinity Bloc:	Sub-Saharan Peoples
Progress Level:

Introduction

Usually living in settlements of round, mud or thatched dwellings with straw roofs, the Dendi are located in the northernmost region of Benin. They mainly reside in settlements in the lush plains of the Niger River that contain many rice fields and garden plots. Villages farther from the river are surrounded by bush areas and cultivated fields. The Dendi are almost entirely Muslim. Though Islam introduced new elements into the Dendi culture, it left the underlying framework of customs and traditions virtually untouched. Spirit possession, magic, sorcery, ancestor worship and witchcraft remain vital components of the Dendi belief system.

Ministry Obstacles

The Dendi are very involved in their current beliefs and may not wish to change their way or ideas, making the growth of a church in their communities difficult.

Outreach Ideas

Pray for the Followers of Christ

Pray for the Entire People Group

Pray for adequate rainfall to produce good crops and for improved health care.
Pray for entire Dendi families to embrace Christ.
Pray the Lord will send teachers to help the few Christ followers among the Dendi become firmly established on the truths of scripture and send pastors to shepherd them.
Pray for strong educational and economic systems in their communities.