Nunu in China

People Name:	Nunu
Country:	China
10/40 Window:	Yes
Population:	63,000
World Population:	63,000
Primary Language:	Bunu, Bu-Nao
Primary Religion:	Ethnic Religions
Christian Adherents:	0.00 %
Evangelicals:	0.00 %
Scripture:	Unspecified
Ministry Resources:	No
Jesus Film:	No
Audio Recordings:	Yes
People Cluster:	Yao-Mien
Affinity Bloc:	Southeast Asian Peoples
Progress Level:

Introduction / History

Nunu history is shrouded in stories of past migrations and armed conflict with other people groups. Because of pressure from the Han and the Zhuang, the Nunu were driven from their land and forced into the remote mountains where the soil is poor and living conditions extremely harsh. In some places the Nunu must walk long distances to collect water from the nearest source.

In most other countries, the Nunu would be classified as a distinct minority group in their own right. In China, however, they have been tucked away as part of the Bunu who, in turn, have been included under the official Yao nationality. Because of this classification, few people have ever heard of the Nunu even though they possess their own culture, history, language, and ethnicity.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Because of the poor soil and rocky ground, the Nunu have become accustomed to surviving however they are able. Nunu men have traditionally been great hunters, but today their yields are limited to wild pigs and small game. In the past the region was home to many tigers, deer, and bears. Nunu women are experts at foraging in the forests for food supplements such as edible mushrooms and vegetables. In times of great hunger, the Nunu have eaten roots and the bark from trees which they boil into a sticky substance.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Pan Hu is worshiped by the Nunu. At the great Pan Hu Festival, held on the 16th day of every tenth lunar month, thousands of people come together in a demonstration of devotion to Pan Hu that borders on demonic possession. The Nunu also worship their ancestors.

Early missionaries commented on the meekness of character possessed by China's minorities. Paul Vial, who worked among a group in Yunnan, wrote, "The [minority person] is born timid but not fearful; he shuns strangers as if they were bringing the plague. ... He is not afraid, but he is not daring. In front of a Chinese, he is as a dog before a tiger. ... He is like a large child who follows you, but who never precedes you."

What Are Their Needs?

The Nunu people need to find their way to the cross. As it stands, few if any will ever hear his voice calling them.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Lord to intervene in their families, calling people to his side.
Pray God will send a messenger who will engage in power encounter against possessing demons.
Pray for their hearts to be drawn to the Lord of lords.
Pray for a church planting movement to thrive in their communities.