Mbimu in Cameroon

Introduction / History

In the early 1900s, the poorly armed Mbimu people fled adversaries who were attacking their villages with firearms. Their flight along a river brought them to their current location, where they settled in a densely forested area in western Central African Republic (CAR). There are also some Mbimu villages in Cameroon and farther south in Congo.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Today, Mbimu people support themselves by farming, hunting, trapping and sporadic logging expeditions. Everyone grows manioc, the staple food; they eat both roots and leaves of this tuber. Other crops include peanuts, corn, squash, various greens, tobacco, coffee, taro, yams and bananas.

Modern commercial logging ventures bring both helpful and detrimental side effects. Because the companies employ large numbers of people, the local economy receives a much-needed but temporary boost. In its wake, logging ventures disrupt the forests' ecosystems, making hunting and trapping much less productive. Overhunting to satisfy the loggers need for meat has made game scarce. Many logging families no longer have gardens to turn back to for sustenance, adding to the disruption.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Mbimus are highly Christianized. They can be used by God to disciple many in Cameroon. There is still a stronghold of traditional religion that interferes with full faith in Christ.

What Are Their Needs?

Poverty gnaws at the fabric of Mbimu society. It impacts the quality of life, health and developmental opportunities for families. Some have abandoned their farms to pursue diamond mining with its illusive lure of instant wealth.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Holy Spirit to give Mbimu family leaders a spiritual hunger that will affect entire families.
Pray for their churches to be defined by love and discipleship.
Pray for the Lord to give them an abundant harvest as a testimony of his power and love.

Text Source:   Joshua Project