People
Who they are
The Lela, also known as the Lyéla, live in west-central Burkina Faso, especially in Sanguié Province, around Réo. They belong to the Gurunsi cultural group, and their language is Lyele. The territory of their communities is known as Lyolo, the land of the Lyéla.
In the traditional system, each village has a land chief responsible for matters concerning land use. Farming is central to family life in a region with a short and unpredictable rainy season.
Where they live
1
Country
352K
Population
| Country | Share of the people | Population |
|---|---|---|
Burkina Faso Partially reached
|
100%
|
344.000 |
How they live
Almost all Lela families depend on subsistence farming, growing millet, sorghum and vegetables. They also raise chickens, pigs and goats, which are almost never kept for food: they are sold when money is short, for example to buy corn, or used in sacrifices. Selling part of the harvest also provides income. Their everyday food consists of a millet or sorghum base with a vegetable sauce, sometimes with meat. Some Lela have learned tailoring and carpentry.
What they believe
Most Lela follow traditional religion. Su is regarded as the original religion of the Lela, and masks are part of this secret institution, whose knowledge and ceremonies are not open to everyone. There are also Christians and Muslims, but Lela who have converted to Christianity often retain traditional practices in private, even in secret.
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.
Lyele
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)14%
Evangelicals4.8%
Needs
Lela women are responsible for fetching water from village wells for cooking, cleaning and washing, which leaves them little free time. The Lela need Christian witness and teaching that take their culture and their social and economic circumstances into account.
What to pray for
Intercede for this people
Pray for the livelihoods of Lela farming families who depend on a short and unpredictable rainy season.
Pray for support for Lela women who are responsible for fetching water and doing many household tasks.
Pray for the study and understanding of the Scriptures in Lyele in families and churches.
Pray for wisdom for Lela Christians as they live alongside relatives from other religious traditions.
Pray for biblical teaching in Lela churches to be clear and relevant to the lives of their people.
Pray for Lela
Intercede for this people alongside Christians around the world.
Open the Prayer Calendar