Kandas in Papua New Guinea

Introduction / History

The Kandas are an indigenous people of New Ireland Province in Papua New Guinea, on the southern part of New Ireland Island. They are associated with the Konoagil area on the island's western side, where coastal villages have long been tied to seafaring, gardening, and close clan relationships. Their language is Kandas, an Oceanic language of the New Ireland region.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Kandas live in a coastal island setting where daily life is closely connected to the sea, village land, and extended family networks. In the Konoagil area of southern New Ireland, communities commonly rely on gardening, fishing, hunting, and local agriculture, including coconut and copra production. Travel between villages and along the coast is often by foot, small boat, or canoe, depending on terrain and distance. Homes are typically simple village houses built from local materials suited to a humid tropical climate. Family and clan obligations are central, and village life is often shaped by shared labor, kinship ties, and community cooperation. Their language in ordinary life is Kandas.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Kandas identify as Christian, though some traditional ethnic religious influence may remain. Scripture is available in their language.

What Are Their Needs?

The Kandas need strong biblical discipleship so that Christian profession is matched by genuine faith, holiness, and obedience to Christ. Where there is a strong Christian base, the need is for spiritual depth, sound doctrine, faithful churches, and leaders who handle Scripture carefully and shepherd people well. They need enduring Christian homes, courageous local believers, and a clear break from any remaining syncretism or older spiritual loyalties. They also need a burden to carry the gospel beyond their own people and to reach other ethnic groups around them with faithful witness.

Prayer Points

Pray that the Kandas who identify as Christian would grow in repentance, biblical conviction, and joyful obedience to Christ.

Pray that pastors, elders, and other local leaders would teach Scripture faithfully and lead with courage and humility.
Pray that any lingering attachment to older spiritual practices would be fully surrendered to the lordship of Jesus Christ.
Pray for strong families, healthy churches, and enduring discipleship among the Kandas.
Pray that the Kandas would actively reach out to other ethnic groups with the gospel and become a faithful witness beyond their own community.

Text Source:   Joshua Project