People
Who they are
The Bamileke-Tchang, also called the Yemba, live in western Cameroon, in the Dschang area of Menoua Division. Yemba is a Bamileke language with northern and southern varieties, spoken in villages such as Bafou and Foréké-Dschang. Many Yemba speakers work in trade or the civil service and live in towns and cities, but maintain ties with their home villages.
Where they live
1
Country
769K
Population
| Country | Share of the people | Population |
|---|---|---|
Cameroon Partially reached
|
100%
|
750.000 |
How they live
Most families are farmers who grow food for their own use and exchange vegetables, coffee, pigs and chickens for other food and money. Dschang is a center for markets and trade. Each neighborhood in a Yemba village has a chief or deputy chief. Funerals bring together relatives and friends, even those who live far away.
What they believe
Christianity has a strong presence alongside traditional practices. In traditional belief, God is distant, and ancestors, relatives who have died, are closer to him and can influence the living. In some communities, there is suspicion that Christianity interferes with traditional customs.
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.
Yemba
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)72%
Evangelicals8%
Needs
For many Yemba, caring for the dead and taking part in funerals are central to family life. Churches need to speak about death, grief and hope in Jesus in Yemba, clearly and with respect for families’ customs.
What to pray for
Intercede for this people
Pray for the livelihoods of Yemba families who grow food and sell their produce in Dschang's markets.
Pray for the reading and understanding of the Scriptures in Yemba in villages and among those living in towns and cities.
Pray for Yemba Christians to find comfort in Jesus as they grieve and to treat their relatives with respect.
Pray for Yemba churches to teach the faith clearly when speaking about the dead and traditional customs.
Pray for Bamileke-Tchang
Intercede for this people alongside Christians around the world.
Open the Prayer Calendar