Ngbaka Gbaya in Central African Republic

Introduction / History

The Gbayas have been in Central Africa since the 1500s. At one time, they were involved with ritual cannibalism. The 1800s was a very bad time for them because of Fulani slave raiders and European colonialists. Some moved east to what is now Cameroon. The French first had contact with them in 1892. In the early 1900s, their homeland was taken by German colonialists. The Germans used scorched Earth techniques to destroy Gbaya settlements and force them to submit. The Gbayas allied with the French for a while, but they ultimately rebelled against both European powers.

The Gbaya are divided into several subgroups based on dialect. One of these is the Southwest Gbaya.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Using slash-and-burn techniques, Southwest Gbaya farmers grow peanuts, yams, tobacco, maize and cassava. They started growing coffee and rice during the French colonial period. The diamond industry has been important for the Gbayas since the 1930s.

Their staple food is a cassava-based porridge called kam. They drink an alcoholic beverage called kuri.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Southwest Gbaya are Christian, although many still practice witchcraft.

What Are Their Needs?

The Southwest Gbayas need to send out workers to other parts of Africa. They are highly Christianized.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Lord to prepare and send out Southwest Gbaya workers to the lost in Africa.
Pray for the Holy Spirit to bring a mighty revival to Southwest Gbaya churches.
Pray for their churches to be defined by love and outreach.

Text Source:   Joshua Project