People
Where the gospel has not yet reached this people
5K people from this group live in countries where they remain unreached or minimally reached:
-
Guinea Minimally reached
5.400 people
Who they are
The Balanta Kentohe form the largest subgroup of the Balanta people, with a significant presence in Guinea-Bissau and neighboring coastal areas of West Africa. Historically known for their resistance to centralized authority and for a society organized around councils of elders, they keep their native language and a strong sense of community alive.
Their identity is deeply connected to the land and the traditional management of wetlands, where shared work among families sustains entire villages and passes on values of solidarity and honor across generations.
Where they live
4
Countries
517K
World population
| Country | Share of the people | Population |
|---|---|---|
Guinea-Bissau Partially reached
|
88.4%
|
449.000 |
Cape Verde Partially reached
|
9.8%
|
50.000 |
|
Guinea Minimally reached
|
1.1%
|
5.400 |
Gambia Partially reached
|
0.7%
|
3.500 |
How they live
Rice farming in flooded areas is the foundation of the Balanta Kentohe’s livelihood, using ancestral techniques developed along channels and mangroves. In addition to farming, they raise cattle and pigs, animals with ceremonial value in celebrations and funeral rites. Community life is structured around age groups, valuing collective effort and the counsel of elders in resolving conflicts and making decisions.
What they believe
Most follow the traditional practices and beliefs of their ancestors. Although they acknowledge the existence of a supreme Creator God, everyday spirituality focuses on relationships with local spirits, known as irãs, and with ancestors. Families frequently turn to household altars, rites of passage, and offerings to ensure health, good harvests, and spiritual protection.
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.
Balanta
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)5%
Evangelicals2.4%
Needs
Many rural villages lack health clinics, treated water, and adequate schools for children. Soil salinization and an unstable climate also pose challenges to traditional rice harvests. Spiritually, there is a great need for local Christian workers and accessible biblical resources to help disciple entire families in the faith.
What to pray for
Intercede for this people
Pelo fortalecimento dos cristãos balantas, para que compartilhem o evangelho com amor e sabedoria em suas aldeias.
Por melhorias na saúde básica e pelo sustento das famílias diante das dificuldades na lavoura de arroz.
Pela disponibilidade e avanço de porções bíblicas e mensagens em áudio no idioma balanta.
Pela libertação do medo de espíritos locais e pela revelação da graça e da paz que há em Cristo.
Pelo surgimento de igrejas saudáveis e lideradas por crentes locais entre os Balanta Kentohe.
Pray for Balanta Kentohe
Intercede for this people alongside Christians around the world.
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