Somali in Kenya

People Name:	Somali
Country:	Kenya
10/40 Window:	No
Population:	2,596,000
World Population:	26,891,600
Primary Language:	Somali
Primary Religion:	Islam
Christian Adherents:	0.22 %
Evangelicals:	0.18 %
Scripture:	Complete Bible
Ministry Resources:	Yes
Jesus Film:	Yes
Audio Recordings:	Yes
People Cluster:	Somali
Affinity Bloc:	Horn of Africa Peoples
Progress Level:

Introduction / History

Somalis first appeared in Africa around 1200 A.D. and began expanding westward and southward about 150 years later. They converted to Islam around 1550, under the influence of Arab traders that had settled along the cost of present-day Somalia. Their southward trend eventually led them into the area that is now Kenya.

Today they are scattered across eight countries in the northeastern portion of Africa, commonly called the "Horn of Africa," and in the Middle East. They are one of the most homogenous ethnic groups in Africa. They share a common language, faith and cultural heritage that is an integral part of their nomadic lifestyle.

Because of their geographic proximity to Kenya, they have a large population in the northern part of that country, despite traditional tensions between Somalia and Kenya that exist to this day.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Regular droughts and war have driven Somali refugees into Kenya where they live in the world’s largest refugee camp. Some try to earn a living by establishing small businesses while others must depend on relief aid. Typically they return to Somalia when it’s possible then go to Kenya when war or drought makes it impossible to earn a living.

The more fortunate Somalis in Kenya are known for being businessmen and entrepreneurs. A large number were driven out of Kenya by the police and the general public in the early 2010s. Because of terrorists attacks from Somalia, these Somalis were suspected of having terrorist ties by the Kenyans.

Somali society is based on the nuclear family, which consists of a husband, wife and children. The man is the head of his household. As Muslims, a Somali man who can afford them can have up to four wives. The first wife has much power over those he marries later.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Although Somalis are nearly all Shafiite Sunni Muslims, numerous beliefs and traditions have been intermingled with their Islamic practices. They observe the standard Islamic prayers; however, Somali women have never worn the required Islamic veils. Somali Muslims frequently turn to the wadaad (a religious expert) for blessings, charms and advice in worldly matters.

What Are Their Needs?

Although the Somali did not have a written script until 1972, they already have a translation of the Bible in their language. Unfortunately, the labors of missionaries among the Somali have met with little success, partly because they associate Christianity with foreign imperialists. There are thousands of potential workers in Kenya that need to be deployed with the gospel of peace to these war-weary people.

Prayer Points

Ask the Lord to raise up missionaries who can effectively reach out to Somali Muslims in Kenya.
Ask God to grant favor and wisdom to workers who are focusing on the Somali.
Pray for effectiveness of the JESUS Film among Somalis in Kenya.
Ask God to anoint the gospel as it goes forth via radio and television to the Somali people.
Ask the Lord to raise up Somali disciples who will make more disciples who will make even more disciples!