Mbula-Bwazza, Bere in Nigeria

People Name:	Mbula-Bwazza, Bere
Country:	Nigeria
10/40 Window:	Yes
Population:	137,000
World Population:	137,000
Primary Language:	Mbula-Bwazza
Primary Religion:	Ethnic Religions
Christian Adherents:	48.00 %
Evangelicals:	16.00 %
Scripture:	New Testament
Ministry Resources:	Yes
Jesus Film:	Yes
Audio Recordings:	Yes
People Cluster:	Benue
Affinity Bloc:	Sub-Saharan Peoples
Progress Level:

Introduction / History

The Mbula people live in rural villages in northeastern Nigeria. They are increasingly affected by changes happening around them. About 50 percent claim they believe in Jesus Christ. However, because many Mbula do not understand the Hausa trade language that is used in churches, God seems quite distant. Believers here are convinced that mother tongue Scripture will transform their villages and churches and be a clear tool to share salvation with family and friends.

The Mbula people are farmers. They make a living from their land, but poverty plagues them. Although they live in rural areas, the influences of urban civilization are making inroads into their villages.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Historically, Mbula speakers have been passionate about Scripture translation. Sixty years after they first received Danish missionaries, a mother tongue speaker translated parts of God's Word on his own. However, he lacked help to produce a full, high-quality translation; today, his manuscripts are illegible.