People
Who they are
The Xwela are a community with deep roots in southern Benin, part of the wider Gbe language family. Historically connected to the shores of lagoons and coastal channels, they preserve a distinctive identity shaped by the waters and oral tradition. Their mother tongue conveys a wealth of proverbs, songs, and memories passed down from generation to generation, keeping their sense of community belonging alive.
Where they live
1
Country
106K
Population
| Country | Share of the people | Population |
|---|---|---|
Benin Minimally reached
|
100%
|
103.000 |
How they live
Daily life for Xwela families revolves around small-scale fishing in lagoons and rivers, along with growing cassava, corn, and oil palms. Women play a central role in drying, smoking, and selling fish at regional markets. Mutual cooperation among relatives sustains daily life and helps resolve local disputes.
What they believe
Traditional spirituality, rooted in Vodun worship and reverence for ancestors, permeates the people’s daily customs. Through rituals and offerings, they seek the protection of spirits of the waters and the land. Fear of spiritual retaliation and family pressure make the decision to follow a new faith a step with a considerable social cost.
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.
Xwela Gbe
Portions translated
- Translation started Done
- Portions Current stage
- 3 New Testament Still ahead
- 4 Whole Bible Still ahead
Audio recordings Available
Jesus Film Not available
Translation data: Joshua Project.
Gospel progress among the unreached
Christians (all traditions)6%
Evangelicals2%
Needs
The communities need greater access to basic sanitation, treated drinking water, and properly equipped health clinics. Spiritually, there is an urgent need for accessible biblical resources in their own language and for support to help Xwela believers grow strong in their faith while maintaining close relationships with their families.
What to pray for
Intercede for this people
Pelo desenvolvimento socioeconômico e melhores condições de saúde nas vilas de pescadores e agricultores.
Pela libertação do medo espiritual através da revelação do amor e poder de Cristo.
Pelo avanço da tradução bíblica e recursos em áudio na língua xwela.
Por fortalecimento, discipulado e coragem para os poucos cristãos locais.
Pelo surgimento de igrejas locais saudáveis e contextualizadas entre as famílias xwela.
Pray for Gbe Xwela
Intercede for this people alongside Christians around the world.
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