Introduction / History

The Badyara people speak a language called Badyara and are part of the Atlantic people cluster. The Biafada language is somewhat similar to their language.

The Badyara people live in the Koundara Region. They also live in Senegal and Guinea-Bissau. Many fled to Senegal from Guinea well over 100 years ago due to war in their regions.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Most Badyara villages consist of only 100 to 500 people. They are proud of their unique historical and cultural roots.

They earn extra money by extracting honey from beehives and also by producing excellent cotton cloth. Most primarily earn their living as subsistence farmers.

They practice female circumcision, a process that is painful and leaves the girls vulnerable to infections. Boys are circumcised at 8 years old and are then taken away from the village for about one month, during which time they are taught the ways of the people. This event is followed by a public washing and a huge celebration involving the whole village. This is the only time that the men dance.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Islam is the predominant religion. In fact, most of the people are Muslims, while others practice indigenous religions. They believe the spirits live inside the rocks. Each house has a little jar filled with small rocks for protection and appeasement of the spirits. Parents do not allow a young couple to marry if they are suspected of loving each other. They believe that the man will lose his power over the woman if he loves her. The blacksmith used to be the most powerful figure in the village. He would put curses on people, offer sacrifices and receive the best cuts of meat.

Very few are Christian adherents, mostly Roman Catholic. Most of these people depend on the spirit world.

What Are Their Needs?

The Badyara people need people to lead them into pure faith in Jesus Christ alone. They cannot depend on the spirits of their ancestors and have the blessings of the King of kings.

Prayer Points

Pray for Badyara elders and leaders to open the door for their people to embrace Jesus Christ.
Pray for the Lord to give the Badyara people an abundant harvest this year as proof of his power and love.
Pray for the Lord to thrust out workers to the Badyara in Guinea-Bissau.
Pray for a movement to Christ among the Badyara people that will lead them into spiritual and physical blessings.

Scripture Prayers for the Badyara in Guinea-Bissau.