People
Who they are
The Toma live in Guinea, in West Africa, mainly in the Macenta region, in a mountainous area between Macenta and Kissidougou. They call themselves Loma, and their language, Toma, belongs to the Mande group. According to a 1965 study, they are a people deeply rooted in the land who fought in the past to defend themselves rather than to conquer.
Where they live
1
Country
289K
Population
| Country | Share of the people | Population |
|---|---|---|
Guinea Partially reached
|
100%
|
282.000 |
How they live
In 1965, a researcher recorded that Toma life revolved around upland rice, grown in clearings opened in the forest. Rice was the only major cereal crop; corn was planted near homes, and cassava played an important role. Red palm oil supplied much of their dietary fat, and both men and women drank wine made from palm sap. Rice was also offered to spirits and the dead and was part of the rituals of the men’s Poro association.
What they believe
Most Toma follow traditional religions, and there is a Christian minority, including some Evangelicals. In 1965, each tribe had a guardian spirit that lived on a mountain and watched over both the ancestors and the living. A 2007 study showed that traditional worship, partly secret and partly public, had survived decades of repression by the authorities after independence. Poro gained renewed importance in the war-affected region along the border with Liberia.
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.
Toma
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)16%
Evangelicals4.6%
Needs
The Toma need the gospel to be present in every aspect of family and community life, where worship of ancestors and spirits remains strong. The complete Bible in Toma was finished in 2023 and now needs to reach families in print and audio, so they can read and hear it. Christians need support to live out their faith among neighbors who follow traditional religion.
What to pray for
Intercede for this people
Pray for peace in the border region between Guinea and Liberia, where many Toma live.
Pray for families and churches to use the complete Bible in Toma, finished in 2023.
Pray for Toma Christians to live out their faith with love among families who follow traditional religion.
Pray for a revival through the Holy Spirit in Toma churches and families.
Pray for Toma disciples who will make new disciples.
Pray for Toma
Intercede for this people alongside Christians around the world.
Open the Prayer Calendar