Introduction / History

The Natioro occupy a small area in the extreme southwest of Burkina Faso. They are a small people group. Burkina Faso is the only country where they live.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Poor roads and a somewhat hilly landscape have prevented much outside contact, and the Natioro have strong traditions. Still, they are friendly to outsiders and eager to improve their lives.

The area's hot and arid climate, broken by a rainy season in the summer, is conducive to growing millet and maize. Yams and dried fish complement the villagers' diet.

Most families survive through subsistence farming, although some men are herdsmen or merchants. Carpenters are rare, but they are well-known for the beds they produce made from local wood. The Natioro trade among themselves and with neighboring peoples at a weekly market.

The young people do not have adequate education. Instead of studying, they spend much of their time helping in the fields or doing housework. Many seem willing to learn to read, but there have been no successful literacy programs. As they mature, finding a job becomes very difficult.

Men rule as the "family chief," and may marry several wives and father many children. Each village recognizes its own chief, who settles disputes among the people. Outside government officials handle larger conflicts. People gather as a community for important events such as weddings, funerals and baptisms.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Although the Natioro claim to be Muslim, they strongly adhere to many animistic beliefs. Their ceremonies combine Islamic customs with traditional methods of ancestor worship and animal sacrifice. As far as we know there is no missionary presence nor Natioro believers.

What Are Their Needs?

The Natioro know they need better education for their children. Their longing for literacy may be the way for workers to reach them with the Word of God.

Prayer Items

Pray for the Lord to bless the Natioro people with an abundant harvest this year as a testimony of his power and love.
Pray for the Lord to thrust out workers to this highly unreached people group in Burkina Faso.
Pray for a spiritual hunger that will take them beyond the ways of their ancestors into the loving arms of Jesus Christ.
Pray for an unstoppable movement to Christ among the Natioro people this decade.

Scripture Prayers for the Natioro in Burkina Faso.