People
Who they are
The Banda-Bambari Linda live in the Central African Republic, in the area around Bambari, Ippy and Bria, and are one of the groups within the Banda people. Their language, also called Banda-Linda or Linda, is tonal: voice pitch changes the meaning of words. This allows them to send messages using drums that reproduce the melody and rhythm of speech. Traditionally, the village chief keeps the community’s pair of drums.
Where they live
1
Country
296K
Population
| Country | Share of the people | Population |
|---|---|---|
Central African Republic Partially reached
|
100%
|
286.000 |
How they live
The Banda-Bambari Linda are fishers and farmers who grow cotton, cassava, melons, millet, okra and yams. They also hunt and sell wood and honey. They are known for their artistic talent, making carved wooden objects and drums with animal-skin heads. The wooden drums called lenga are played in pairs to set the rhythm for dances and, traditionally, to announce births, deaths and hunting accidents that called for help.
What they believe
Islam is the religion of most Banda-Bambari Linda, and there are also Christians. Among the Banda as a whole, many belong to Catholic or Protestant churches while continuing to make sacrifices to ancestral spirits. The Linda are the least reached Banda subgroup, and Islam has entered their communities.
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.
Banda-Bambari
New Testament complete
- Translation started Done
- Portions Done
- New Testament Current stage
- 4 Whole Bible Still ahead
Audio recordings Not available
Jesus Film Available
Translation data: Joshua Project.
Gospel progress among the unreached
Christians (all traditions)25%
Evangelicals5%
Needs
Bambari, the main town in the region where they live, experienced several clashes between armed groups between 2012 and 2021. Families need peace and security. The Linda also need to put all their trust in Jesus, and Christians among them need support to take the gospel to neighbors and relatives who have not yet heard it.
What to pray for
Intercede for this people
Pray for peace in Bambari and throughout the region where the Banda-Bambari Linda live.
Pray for an abundant harvest for Linda families as a sign of God's goodness.
Pray for Linda evangelists and disciple-makers to bring Jesus to their relatives and neighbors.
Pray for Banda churches to experience revival with peace and joy.
Pray that all the Linda will put all their faith in Jesus Christ.
Pray for Banda-Bambari Linda
Intercede for this people alongside Christians around the world.
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