People
Who they are
The Western Bete, also known as the Guiberoua, are part of the Bete people, whose languages belong to the Kru group. They live in forested areas of west-central and southwestern Ivory Coast, around Daloa, Issia, Guibéroua and Soubré. They make their living from farming, hunting and fishing. Among the Bete of the west and west-central regions, music and dance are part of public celebrations and times of mourning. Gbégbé is one of these dances.
Where they live
1
Country
307K
Population
| Country | Share of the people | Population |
|---|---|---|
Côte d’Ivoire Partially reached
|
100%
|
300.000 |
How they live
Families grow rice, cassava, plantains and yams for food, and cocoa and coffee for sale. Hunting and fishing supplement their meals. Families are large, with several relatives living together, and elders hold authority: decisions are usually reached through clan consensus. Gbégbé, a traditional Bete dance, is now also blended with more modern musical styles.
What they believe
Most Western Bete follow traditional religion, which honors ancestors and spirits through rituals and sacrifices and recognizes a supreme creator. Christianity arrived through Catholic and Protestant missions, and there are also evangelicals, but many blend the Christian faith with traditional practices. Evangelicals are a minority, and a living faith has yet to reach most families.
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.
Guiberoua Bete
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)39%
Evangelicals9%
Needs
Many Western Bete communities have limited access to health care, clean water and schooling, and the limited road network makes it difficult to reach markets. Among those who identify as Christian, many still do not clearly understand the gospel and remain bound by fear of spirits. Believers need discipleship and teaching in their own language, Bete Guiberoua.
What to pray for
Intercede for this people
Pray for clean water, health care and schooling in Western Bete communities.
Pray for freedom from fear of spirits and ancestors, with hearts open to Jesus as Lord.
Pray for the New Testament in Bete Guiberoua to be used in teaching families.
Pray for Western Bete Christians to stand firm in Jesus as they face traditional practices.
Pray for local churches to make disciples who will teach other Bete.
Pray for Western Bete
Intercede for this people alongside Christians around the world.
Open the Prayer Calendar