People
Who they are
The Gbe Weme, also called Weme, live in southern Benin, in the communes of Adjohoun, Bonou and Dangbo, along the lower Ouémé River, with a presence also in the department of Atlantique. They are among the Gbe-speaking peoples, with ties to the Fon, Aja and Xwla.
Many families farm, fish, trade and make handicrafts. Relatives live close to one another, and elders are respected in decision-making.
Where they live
1
Country
354K
Population
| Country | Share of the people | Population |
|---|---|---|
Benin Partially reached
|
100%
|
346.000 |
How they live
Families grow corn, cassava, beans and peanuts for their own consumption, while others earn their living by fishing with nets in the Ouémé River. Women care for children, prepare meals, work in the fields and sell produce. Families tend to be large, and old age is highly respected. Music, dance and festivals are part of community life.
What they believe
Most Weme follow traditional religion, in which ancestor veneration plays a central role and priests or diviners act as intermediaries between the spiritual and visible worlds. There are Christians and churches among them, and it is common for Christian faith to be mixed with traditional practices.
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.
Weme Gbe
Portions translated
- Translation started Done
- Portions Current stage
- 3 New Testament Still ahead
- 4 Whole Bible Still ahead
Audio recordings Available
Jesus Film Available
Translation data: Joshua Project.
Gospel progress among the unreached
Christians (all traditions)19%
Evangelicals5%
Needs
The Weme have limited access to education, health care and clean water, and literacy programs are among their needs. Church leaders need training to teach the Bible, disciple others and plant new churches in a way that makes sense within Weme culture.
What to pray for
Intercede for this people
Pray for literacy among the Weme so that more people can read and study the Scriptures.
Pray for progress in translation and for the use of Scripture in the language of the Weme.
Pray for Weme Christians to stand firm as they follow Jesus in families connected to traditional practices.
Pray for Weme church leaders to be trained in teaching the Bible.
Pray for clean water and health care in Weme communities that still need these services.
Pray for Gbe Weme
Intercede for this people alongside Christians around the world.
Open the Prayer Calendar