People
Who they are
The Kapau, also known by their language, Hamtai, are an indigenous people living in the steep mountains and densely vegetated valleys of Papua New Guinea. With a strong connection to their ancestral land, they preserve a distinctive cultural heritage shaped by geographic isolation and a rich oral tradition.
Their identity is expressed through the preservation of ancestral customs and well-organized community life. Over recent decades, they have welcomed the Christian faith, which now deeply influences their villages’ daily routines and social relationships.
Where they live
1
Country
113K
Population
| Country | Share of the people | Population |
|---|---|---|
Papua New Guinea Significantly reached
|
100%
|
111.000 |
How they live
Kapau families live primarily by subsistence farming, growing sweet potatoes, taro, bananas, and vegetables on fertile slopes, as well as raising pigs, which are essential to the local economy and celebrations. Life revolves around community cooperation in the villages, where demanding tasks, such as clearing fields and building homes, are carried out together with a strong sense of solidarity.
What they believe
The overwhelming majority of the population embraces Christianity, with a strong presence of active Protestant and evangelical churches. Worship practices and community life reflect this faith, although the ongoing challenge is to deepen understanding of Scripture in order to discern and transform ancient beliefs in the world of forest spirits.
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.
Hamtai
New Testament complete
- Translation started Done
- Portions Done
- New Testament Current stage
- 4 Whole Bible Still ahead
Audio recordings Available
Jesus Film Not available
Translation data: Joshua Project.
Gospel progress among the unreached
Christians (all traditions)99%
Evangelicals31%
Needs
The rugged terrain makes transportation and access to health clinics, schools, and regional markets difficult. There is a great lack of resources for ongoing theological training, support materials for young people, and initiatives to help combat diseases common in tropical highland forests.
What to pray for
Intercede for this people
Pelo aprofundamento do discipulado e maturidade bíblica entre as famílias Kapau.
Pela formação e encorajamento de pastores e líderes comunitários locais.
Por melhorias no acesso à saúde básica e educação de qualidade nas aldeias mais isoladas.
Pelo engajamento missionário das igrejas locais para alcançar povos vizinhos ainda isolados.
Pray for Kapau
Intercede for this people alongside Christians around the world.
Open the Prayer Calendar