The Gnau people are an indigenous group residing in the Eastern Highlands province of northeastern Papua New Guinea (PNG). The Gnau, also known as the Ganaw, are a small but distinct ethnic group with a unique culture and history.
The history of the Gnau people can be traced back to the pre-colonial era, where they lived in isolation in the highlands of PNG. However, their traditional way of life was disrupted with the arrival of the European colonizers in the 19th century. The Gnau people were forced to abandon their traditional practices and adopt the customs and traditions of the colonizers.
The primary language of the Gnau is their own language of Gnau. Global Recording Network has provided some audio tapes of Bible stories in Gnau. They need a Bible translation.
The Gnau people still hold onto some of their traditional customs and practices. The Gnau people are known for their intricate carvings, which are made from wood, bone and stone. These carvings are used for various purposes, including religious ceremonies and cultural displays.
The Gnau people have a strong sense of community and family ties. They live in small villages and practice subsistence farming. The traditional diet of the Gnau people consists of sweet potatoes, taro and yams. Sago is their main food. Sago is a starch made from the pith of the branches of some palm trees. Hunting and fishing are also an essential part of their subsistence livelihoods. Roads are lacking in the section of PNG where the Gnau live. The only reliable form of transportation is water. The Gnau must often walk an entire day to bring their products to market.
Most Gnau lack access to modern medicine. Hospitals and clinics are often hours away from the region where they live. Many children under 10 years old die of preventable diseases.
Generosity is a social norm. Hunters are prohibited from eating any of their own catch but must distribute what they kill. Further, if a community member asks for something then one is expected to give it.
The large majority of the Gnau say they are followers of Jesus Christ. Their form of Christianity is mixed with their traditional beliefs in animism and ancestor veneration. Religion plays an important role in the lives of the Gnau people. They believe in a variety of spirits, both good and evil. They perform elaborate rituals to appease the spirits and ask for their blessings. They believe that their ancestors play a significant role in their daily lives.
The Gnau people of PNG have many needs. They need access to modern medicine and schools for their children. Solar panels could bring them electricity. The Gnau need the Bible in their own language if they are to grow spiritually.
Ask the Lord to bring literacy skills to the Gnau.
Ask the Lord to raise up pastors who can teach them the word of God in the local language.
Pray for modern medical facilities in the Gnau homeland.
Pray that soon the Gnau would be able to read the Bible in their language.
Scripture Prayers for the Gnau in Papua New Guinea.
The National Research Institute 2010, Papua New Guinea District and Provincial Profiles, link here.
National Economic & Fiscal Commission 2014, Go Long Ples Reducing inequality in education funding, A Report by the National Economic & Fiscal Commission
| Profile Source: Joshua Project |
