People
Who they are
The Pokot live in Kenya and Uganda. In Kenya, their communities are found in areas such as Baringo and West Pokot, and they are part of the Kalenjin peoples. They speak Pokoot, a Southern Nilotic language.
There are lowland communities that focus more on livestock and highland communities where farming plays a larger role. Although their livelihoods vary, the Pokot see themselves as one people. Cattle are important both to lowland herders and to farming families.
Where they live
2
Countries
362K
World population
| Country | Share of the people | Population |
|---|---|---|
Uganda Significantly reached
|
59.2%
|
209.000 |
Kenya Partially reached
|
40.8%
|
144.000 |
How they live
Their herds and flocks include cattle, sheep and goats. In the wetter highlands, families combine growing crops with raising livestock. In West Pokot, these activities complement each other: irregular rainfall makes it risky to depend on crops alone. Cattle camps may move frequently, while families move less often. Councils of elders take part in community decisions and in decisions about the use of grazing land and water.
What they believe
Most Pokot still follow traditional religion, and there are Christians among them. Even among Christians, the traditional worldview remains strong. Illness and death are greatly feared, and many Pokot religious rites are intended to ward off illness or seek healing.
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.
Pokoot
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)46.8%
Evangelicals8.3%
Needs
Among Pokot herders, livelihoods depend on water and grazing land, and drought and shortages of these resources fuel conflicts with neighboring communities along the Kenya-Uganda border. Pokot Christians need biblical teaching in their own language and support as they wrestle with questions about illness and protection.
What to pray for
Intercede for this people
Pray for water, grazing land and food for Pokot families during droughts.
Pray for peace between the Pokot and neighboring peoples in disputes over water and grazing land.
Pray for families in Kenya and Uganda to read and understand the Scriptures in Pokoot.
Pray that Pokot Christians will find confidence and comfort in Jesus when facing illness.
Pray that Pokot churches will teach the Bible clearly and care for families.
Pray for Kalenjin Pokot
Intercede for this people alongside Christians around the world.
Open the Prayer Calendar