Eotile, Mekyibo in Côte d'Ivoire

Introduction / History

There are at least three oral traditions about the origin of the Eotile. One of the traditions claim that the Eotile, whose former name was Mekyibo were a long time ago placed on earth by God. A second version is that as a result of war with the Anyi, the Eotile fled from the south-west of the Abi lagoon towards Mosou to found Vitre village, A third version is that hte Eotile were of the Mekyibo who came out of two villages Abondji and Nbihon, which are at the bottom of the Abi lagoon.

The name Eotile was given to them by the Anyi and it means "the people that came out of water".

Where Are they Located?

They are found in Etueboue and Grand Bassam prefectures, south east of Cote d'Ivoire.

What Are Their Lives Like?

They are mostly fishermen and subsistent farmers.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Bosson Assemlan is their principal deity. He is said to be represented by a rock in the Abi lagoon, and the tip if the rock is visible. He is also believed to be the spirit of a white man who receives articles of sacrifice such as Roman wine,chickens and bananas. In addition to Bosson Assemlan, every village has its own deity

What Are Their Needs?

No presing social need, they have the basic amenities.

Prayer Points

Pray that the people will turn from worshiping idols to worship the living God.
Pray for a persevering spirit for the evangelical churches working among them.
Pray that God will sustain the faith of the few Eotile converts, who often are persecuted.

Text Source:   Action Missionnaire Interafricaine