People
Who they are
The Bete Gagnoa live in Ivory Coast, around the city of Gagnoa, as well as in the Sinfra area and the northern part of the Bas-Sassandra region. They are part of the wider group of Bete peoples, but speak a distinct variety, different from those of the Bete of Daloa, Issia and Soubré. Their language, Gagnoa Bete, belongs to the Kru family and already has a writing system and published materials.
Bete names are used to identify medicinal plants, and some refer to the plant’s appearance, its use or animals known in the region.
Where they live
1
Country
403K
Population
| Country | Share of the people | Population |
|---|---|---|
Côte d’Ivoire Partially reached
|
100%
|
394.000 |
How they live
The Bete Gagnoa make their living mainly from farming in a major cocoa-producing region, as well as from trading in markets. Common foods include cassava, rice, plantains and corn. Family and village ties are strong.
Healers and herbalists in Gagnoa use plants to treat illnesses, with specific Bete names to identify each species.
What they believe
The Bete Gagnoa follow traditional religions, Christianity and Islam, with estimates putting the first two at equal shares. Many still rely on practices connected to the spirit world, and the Christian faith coexists with older beliefs.
In a study of people knowledgeable about medicinal plants in Gagnoa, one participant said he used a plant’s fruit to ward off frightening spirits. This does not apply to every family.
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.
Gagnoa Bete
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)40%
Evangelicals7%
Needs
The Bete Gagnoa need health care, schools, economic stability and better roads.
Christians need discipleship and clear biblical teaching, and churches need trained local leaders who can help families leave behind their fear of spirits and trust in Christ.
What to pray for
Intercede for this people
Pray for health, schools and roads for Bete Gagnoa communities.
Pray for the New Testament in Gagnoa Bete to be read and heard in churches and families.
Pray for Bete Gagnoa Christian leaders to be equipped to guide those beginning to follow Jesus.
Pray for families who fear spirits to find confidence in Christ.
Pray for mature Bete Gagnoa Christians to bring Jesus to neighboring peoples.
Pray for Bete Gagnoa
Intercede for this people alongside Christians around the world.
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