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Hundreds of years ago, Mbudum speakers and those of the other languages in this Chadic South Cluster were probably one large people group. Fleeing invasion, the four groups were divided by geography. They developed their own languages and cultures, but they still consider themselves related peoples and enjoy cordial relationships. Residents of this narrow region between Chad and Nigeria in Cameroon's arid "Far North" carefully maintain their borders against guerilla chaos that sometimes creeps across the borders.

Mbudum speakers spend most sunlight hours outside. During the cooler rainy season, they harvest vegetables and staples that will feed their families throughout the rest of the year. Hand tools, domesticated plow animals and hard labor force the desert to yield the crops they need. Some families plant cotton to help supplement cash flow. When the rains end, withering heat will shrivel whatever vegetation is left in this sub-Saharan Sahel region.

Over several centuries, the Mbudum people have continually resisted waves of invasion pressing them to convert to another major faith. Into the backdrop of African traditional religion, Christians from other parts of Cameroon brought the Gospel to this area in the 1970s. Mbudum churches currently use the majority language, also spoken by their aggressive neighbors who don't share their beliefs.

Scripture Prayers for the Mbedam in Cameroon.