Limba, West in Sierra Leone

Introduction / History

Many of the Limba people were hunters or farmers before their communities were devastated. The West and East Limba peoples suffered at the hands of slave traders who took them from their West African homelands and shipped them to North America. The risk of being captured drove many of them to go to Freetown, now in Sierra Leone. Others had to contend with African invaders such as the Susus, the Mandingos and the Fulanis.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Both the West and East Limba people love visual arts, music and dance. They are noted for their copper masks which they use for funeral ceremonies. They excel in wood carvings, and one can buy them online. The Limba peoples love folk tales, which they use to teach their history and traditions to the young. They have their own proverbs and riddles which are passed down from generation to generation. They earn their living through hunting, growing rice or trading.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Though those in the northern regions are officially Muslim, the West and East Limba peoples rely heavily on their ancestral spirits. They have a spiritual "home" called Kakoia, where some go on a pilgrimage. Those in the southern regions, usually in Sierra Leone, are more likely to be Christian.

What Are Their Needs?

Both West and East Limba people need disciplers who will show them how to submit to the Lord of lords, and put their faith on the firm foundation, which is Christ.

Prayer Points

Pray for spiritual discernment and openness to truth among the West Limba people.
Pray for workers to take the gospel to them and disciple those who embrace Christ with teachings from the Bible.

Text Source:   Joshua Project