People
Who they are
The Dagara are a people with agricultural roots, settled in the savannas of West Africa, living mainly in the border regions between Burkina Faso and northern Ghana. Members of the Gur linguistic group, they are known for their rich oral tradition, music played on the traditional xylophone, and strong cohesion within their family lineages.
Their culture places great value on harmony with the land and respect for elders. Collective life is organized around structured villages, where rites of passage and kinship ties define each individual’s place in society.
Where they live
1
Country
408K
Population
| Country | Share of the people | Population |
|---|---|---|
Burkina Faso Minimally reached
|
100%
|
399.000 |
How they live
Dagara livelihoods revolve around family farming, mainly growing pearl millet, sorghum, yams, and beans, as well as keeping small herds. Life in the villages is communal, with traditional mud houses and flat roofs.
Festivals and funeral commemorations are central occasions for bringing the community together, when the sound of the gyil xylophone accompanies songs and dances that gather entire families in celebration of collective memory and mutual solidarity.
What they believe
Although outside forms of Christianity are present, traditional religion guides the daily lives of the vast majority. They believe in a supreme Creator God but frequently turn to earth spirits and ancestors for health, rain, and spiritual protection. Divination and offerings are common attempts to maintain balance with the invisible world.
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.
Northern Dagara
Complete Bible
- Translation started Done
- Portions Done
- New Testament Done
- Whole Bible Current stage
Audio recordings Available
Jesus Film Available
Translation data: Joshua Project.
Gospel progress among the unreached
Christians (all traditions)25%
Evangelicals1.5%
Needs
These communities face seasonal droughts, depleted soils, and limited access to basic health services in rural areas. Spiritually, there is a great need for authentic discipleship rooted in their cultural context, so that faith in Jesus may free the people from constant fear of invisible powers and bring lasting hope.
What to pray for
Intercede for this people
Por colheitas abundantes e acesso a água potável para as famílias dagara nas aldeias rurais.
Pela libertação espiritual do medo da opressão ancestral e pela revelação da graça de Cristo.
Pelo fortalecimento e coragem dos crentes dagara diante da pressão para participar de rituais tradicionais.
Pela difusão e compreensão das Escrituras no idioma do coração por meio de ferramentas orais e comunitárias.
Pelo surgimento de comunidades cristãs maduras, plantadas e lideradas pelos próprios dagara.
Pray for Dagara
Intercede for this people alongside Christians around the world.
Open the Prayer Calendar