People
Who they are
The Kissi live in the forests of Guinea and in smaller communities in Sierra Leone. This group speaks Northern Kissi, which differs from Southern Kissi mainly in dialect. Society is led by elders. The villages are small and govern themselves, and the village chief also settles disputes between residents.
The houses are round, with mud walls, cone-shaped thatched roofs and verandas. The Kissi are known for their baskets and fabrics woven on upright looms.
Where they live
2
Countries
754K
World population
| Country | Share of the people | Population |
|---|---|---|
Guinea Partially reached
|
90.7%
|
669.000 |
Sierra Leone Significantly reached
|
9.3%
|
69.000 |
How they live
Rice is the staple food and main crop. Families also grow peanuts, corn and vegetables, and coffee is their cash crop. Both men and women work in the fields. Men also hunt, fish and clear land for planting; women tend vegetable gardens, raise chickens and sell goods at markets. Boys look after cattle and goats. As they reach adulthood, young people undergo a purification ritual called biriye in a sacred forest.
What they believe
Most Kissi follow traditional religion, and some have become Christians or Muslims. Among those who follow traditional beliefs, it is common to pray to deceased relatives, who are seen as intermediaries between people and the Creator God. Small stone statues represent these spirits and receive offerings from village chiefs. Many live in fear of spiritual forces and wear amulets for protection.
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.
Northern Kissi
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)31.8%
Evangelicals9.7%
Needs
The Kissi of Sierra Leone live in poor communities with few resources: they lack simple farming tools and roads that vehicles can use. They also lack vocational schools for young people and small-scale farmers. The civil war and the Ebola epidemic damaged community facilities. In matters of faith, fear of spirits affects every area of life, and the Kissi need freedom in Christ and strong local churches.
What to pray for
Intercede for this people
Pray for roads and simple tools to help Kissi farmers in Sierra Leone.
Pray for vocational training for Kissi young people and small-scale farmers.
Pray for the Kissi to be free from fear of spirits and to trust in Christ.
Pray for the Bible in Northern Kissi to be used in homes and churches.
Pray for strong churches among the Kissi of Guinea and Sierra Leone.
Pray for Kissi
Intercede for this people alongside Christians around the world.
Open the Prayer Calendar