Korowai in Indonesia

Korowai
Photo Source:  Anonymous 
Map Source:  Anonymous
People Name: Korowai
Country: Indonesia
10/40 Window: Yes
Population: 4,400
World Population: 4,400
Primary Language: Korowai
Primary Religion: Ethnic Religions
Christian Adherents: 30.00 %
Evangelicals: 2.00 %
Scripture: Portions
Online Audio NT: No
Jesus Film: No
Audio Recordings: Yes
People Cluster: New Guinea
Affinity Bloc: Pacific Islanders
Progress Level:

Introduction / History

The Korowai people are a Papuan people group of 3,500 to 4,000 speakers. Traditionally there are no villages. Each family/clan lives in a tree house on their own area. Regularly there are sago grub feasts that bring the people together.

Where Are they Located?

They are located between the Upper reaches of the Eilanden and Becking river systems, in the north extending east to the Casuary River which drains in the Digul.

What Are Their Lives Like?

They are hunter-gatherers who also practice horticulture (bananas and tubers) and they have domesticated pigs. Their lives revolve around finding food and money, solving women and pig problems and organizing sago grub feasts.

What Are Their Beliefs?

They believe that localized spirits control the world and their lives and pig sacrifices have to be brought to keep these evil spirits from being nasty to the people. They strongly believe that every bad thing that happens is caused by spirits, witchcraft and magic and needs to be countered with anti-magic.

What Are Their Needs?

Their greatest need is to hear a clear presentation of the Gospel in their own language. There are basically no healthcare and no schooling opportunities.

Prayer Points

Pray for the few believers to stand firm and be witnesses
Pray for a clear presentation of the Gospel in their own language
Pray for opportunities for better healthcare and schooling

Text Source:   Anonymous