People
Who they are
The Lotuho, also called the Lotuka, live in Eastern Equatoria, South Sudan, in the counties of Torit, Ikotos and Magwi. They call themselves Otuho, are a Nilotic people and speak Otuho. They live in the mountains and the surrounding plains. Each year, thousands of people gather at the Allam festival in Bur, Torit County, to celebrate Otuho culture with a marathon, hunting and wrestling, and to discuss security, farming and community services.
Where they live
1
Country
307K
Population
| Country | Share of the people | Population |
|---|---|---|
South Sudan Partially reached
|
100%
|
301.000 |
How they live
The Lotuho make their living by farming and raising cattle, sheep and goats. On the plains, they grow sorghum, peanuts, sesame and corn. Traditionally, social life is organized around kinship groups linked through the father’s line, and each group has a duty to welcome, protect and support its members.
What they believe
Nearly half of the Lotuho identify as Christians, but traditional religions still have the largest following among the people. Traditionally, the Otuho had a rain chief whose authority was upheld by spiritual beliefs and rituals, and groups of men organized by generation, called monyomiji, who governed the community. These groups enforced rules, such as those governing hunting, through social and spiritual penalties.
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.
Otuho
New Testament complete
- Translation started Done
- Portions Done
- New Testament Current stage
- 4 Whole Bible Still ahead
Audio recordings Available
Jesus Film Available
Translation data: Joshua Project.
Gospel progress among the unreached
Christians (all traditions)45%
Evangelicals7.5%
Needs
A study published in 2025 on the neighboring Kidepo region documented conflicts between the Otuho and Logir and a land dispute between the Otuho and Dongotono. In Oudo in February 2026, the Torit County commissioner said that, over the past fourteen years, the community had been divided by internal conflicts since the start of the war in the country, and called on residents to stop cattle raiding and fighting. The Lotuho need security, reconciliation and leaders from their own people who can teach the faith.
What to pray for
Intercede for this people
Pray for reconciliation among Otuho, Logir and Dongotono communities involved in disputes over cattle and land.
Pray for an end to divisions among Otuho families in Oudo and for an end to cattle raiding.
Pray for the New Testament in Otuho to be read and understood among the Lotuho.
Pray for Lotuho Christians to grow in their knowledge of Jesus and take part in reconciliation in the villages.
Pray for leaders from among the people to be trained to teach the Scriptures in Otuho.
Pray for Lotuho
Intercede for this people alongside Christians around the world.
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