People
Who they are
The Avukaya live on both sides of the border between South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Maridi in South Sudan and Faradje in Congo are the main centers of their language, Avokaya, also written as Avukaya or Abukeia. Many also speak Pa-zande, Moru and Baka, and in the Faradje area many people switch between Avokaya and Logo. According to tradition, the Avukaya joined forces with the Moru and used the mountains to resist an invasion by King Gbudwe of the Azande. One of their best-known cultural expressions is the mamburuku dance.
Where they live
2
Countries
155K
World population
| Country | Share of the people | Population |
|---|---|---|
Congo - Kinshasa Partially reached
|
51.7%
|
78.000 |
South Sudan Partially reached
|
48.3%
|
73.000 |
How they live
The Avukaya traditionally live in tropical forest areas near the border with Congo. They eat nyasa, made from sorghum, pearl millet or cassava flour, served with pirinda. They also enjoy yams and wild fruit.
What they believe
Most Avukaya identify as Christians, both in South Sudan and in Congo, but some continue to follow traditional religions.
The Bible in this people's language
A people only truly understands the gospel when they hear it in the language of their heart. See how far the translation has come.
Avokaya
New Testament complete
- Translation started Done
- Portions Done
- New Testament Current stage
- 4 Whole Bible Still ahead
Audio recordings Available
Jesus Film Available
Translation data: Joshua Project.
Gospel progress among the unreached
Christians (all traditions)75.4%
Evangelicals6.4%
Needs
The Avukaya have the New Testament in Avokaya, completed between 2002 and 2011, but not yet the whole Bible. Some of the people fled South Sudan for Congo because of persecution, and displaced families need support and churches that continue to teach the faith.
What to pray for
Intercede for this people
Pray for the translation of the rest of the Bible into Avokaya.
Pray for Avukaya families who fled South Sudan for Congo.
Pray for Avukaya churches to teach the faith in the people’s language.
Pray for the Avukaya who still follow traditional religions to come to know Jesus.
Pray for Avukaya
Intercede for this people alongside Christians around the world.
Open the Prayer Calendar