Unreached people group
Shekka
ReachedThe shekka are an indigenous people who inhabit the lush forests and hills of southwestern Ethiopia. Belonging to the Omotic language branch, they have a deep connection with the land and the dense rainforests of their native region, one of the most biodiverse areas in the Horn of Africa. Their mother tongue is shekkacho, a language that preserves their rich oral tradition and ancestral customs.
| Country | Share of the people | Population |
|---|---|---|
Ethiopia Significantly reached
|
100%
|
149.000 |
Daily life for the shekka centers around traditional agriculture and forest foraging. They cultivate enset, known as the false banana, along with coffee and various grains. Beekeeping high in ancient trees is a distinctive and time-honored practice in the community. Community life is organized around mutual aid among families and respect for elders, maintaining diligent care for local water sources and forests.
Christianity is the most widespread faith among the shekka, marked by a strong presence of evangelical churches and Ethiopian Orthodox believers. In daily life, many families cherish communal worship and hymns in their mother tongue. In some rural areas, traditional beliefs regarding nature spirits and ancestral blessings still linger on the periphery of daily religious practice.
A people only truly understands the gospel when they hear it in the language of their heart. See how far the translation has come.
- Translation started Done
- Portions Done
- New Testament Current stage
- 4 Whole Bible Still ahead
Translation data: Joshua Project.
Although there is a substantial presence of faith communities, the shekka face challenges such as limited access to healthcare, poor roads, and ecological pressure on their lands. Spiritually, the primary need is for in-depth discipleship and solid theological training so that faith remains steadfast amid social and cultural shifts.
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