Balanta, Kentohe in Cape Verde

Balanta, Kentohe
Photo Source:  West Africa Gateway 
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People Name: Balanta, Kentohe
Country: Cape Verde
10/40 Window: No
Population: 57,000
World Population: 503,700
Primary Language: Balanta
Primary Religion: Christianity
Christian Adherents: 90.00 %
Evangelicals: 6.00 %
Scripture: New Testament
Ministry Resources: Yes
Jesus Film: Yes
Audio Recordings: Yes
People Cluster: Atlantic
Affinity Bloc: Sub-Saharan Peoples
Progress Level:

Introduction / History

The Balanta live on the west coast of Africa though they originated in India, Egypt and Ethiopia.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Balanta are fishermen, herders, and cultivators. They grow millet, rice, peanuts, cashews, and fruit for a cash crop. They love to celebrate traditional holidays.

What Are Their Beliefs?

In this society, God is believed to be far away. They try to reach him through spirits and sacrifices. Although Catholicism has been partially accepted, Islam is strong and practiced along with spirit worship.

What Are Their Needs?

The Kentohe Balanta lack adequate medical facilities in their land.

Prayer Points

Pray that medical and educational needs will be met.
Pray for an indigenous church planting movement among the Kentohe Balanta people.
Pray for the Kentohe Balanta people to lift Christ high above every spirit they now worship.
Pray for God to use the Kentohe Balantas and help them see that believing in Jesus Christ is the only way to salvation.

Text Source:   Joshua Project