Chara, Fachara in Nigeria

Introduction / History

The Facara, also called Tariya live in ten villages (Achuba, Agurum, Anjuk, Annponte, Ancha, Kipang, Kishanda, Ankimongi, Kindogiyon, and Kikep) in Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State. Anjuk is their central town. They speak a language called Cara.

They trace their origin back to Sokoto or Kano from where their ancestors migrated and settled in Kinkwara and Apin. Then moved on to Anjuk, and nine other villages, where they live today.

The Iguta, Amo, Buji, Jere and Kuce are their closest neighbours. They have cordial relationship with these groups, and most of their wives come from the Amo, Buji and Kuce speaking peoples.

The Facara are farmers. They grow maize, guinea corn, soya beans, tamba (finger millet), beniseed (sesame seed), and groundnut. Their main crop is maize. A significant number are also involved in trading and mining activities.

The traditional Chief of the Facara, is called the Farum. They celebrate an annual festival called Imanarin-Cara. It is a singing and dancing festival where traditional songs and dances are showcased. Singers and dancers are adorned in animal skin and Bante (a kind of pant).

Tukun Cara is served as a delicacy during the celebration. It is made from fonio (acha).

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Hausa Bible is mostly used in the churches, because the Scriptures are available only in Hausa and English.

The growth of the church among the Facara is stable, but largely nominal.

All age groups speak Hausa fluently, and the younger generation speak Hausa better than other age groups. Some young and middle-aged people have limited proficiency in English. Men speak both English and Hausa better than women. The Facara live in homogenous communities.

The Facara would need health, agriculture and literacy and education ministries in their communities.

There are about five Christian denominations serving in the area. The churches have not started discussing translation start.

Text Source:   Anonymous