People
Who they are
The Ica are a subgroup of the Yoruba people who inhabit the central regions of Benin in West Africa. They preserve a rich cultural heritage and speak Ede Ica, one of the varieties within the Yoruboid language family.
With a strong attachment to their ancestral roots, the Ica maintain traditions passed down orally through generations. Their identity is deeply tied to the land, local community structures, and the customs that shape social life in their villages.
Where they live
1
Country
140K
Population
| Country | Share of the people | Population |
|---|---|---|
Benin Minimally reached
|
100%
|
137.000 |
How they live
Daily life among the Ica revolves around subsistence farming, mainly growing yams, corn, and cassava, as well as small local businesses. Community work is valued, and preparing fields together strengthens unity among neighbors.
Extended families and the leadership of elders guide village decisions. Agricultural celebrations and traditional rites mark the changing seasons and the harvest.
What they believe
Most Ica follow traditional ethnic religions, with deep reverence for ancestral spirits and the deities of the Yoruba pantheon. The search for blessings, protection from curses, and healing from illness involves consultations with traditional priests, offerings, and amulets.
Spirituality is intertwined with everyday family and community obligations.
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.
Ede Ica
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)6%
Evangelicals0.3%
Needs
Many Ica communities lack basic infrastructure, such as safe drinking water, health clinics, and quality schools for children. Spiritually, there is a need for sound discipleship and biblical resources in their mother tongue, as well as support to help the few local believers remain firm in their faith.
What to pray for
Intercede for this people
Pelo desenvolvimento comunitário e melhorias no acesso à saúde e à educação nas aldeias ica.
Pela tradução e difusão das Escrituras e recursos em áudio na língua ede ica.
Por coragem e perseverança para os poucos crentes ica diante da pressão social e familiar.
Pelo surgimento de igrejas locais autênticas e firmadas na verdade do evangelho.
Por obreiros comprometidos em servir com humildade e amor entre as comunidades ica.
Pray for Ica
Intercede for this people alongside Christians around the world.
Open the Prayer Calendar