Senoufo in France

People Name:	Senoufo
Country:	France
10/40 Window:	No
Population:	6,700
World Population:	2,124,700
Primary Language:	Senoufo, Cebaara
Primary Religion:	Islam
Christian Adherents:	20.00 %
Evangelicals:	0.20 %
Scripture:	Complete Bible
Ministry Resources:	Yes
Jesus Film:	Yes
Audio Recordings:	Yes
People Cluster:	Gur
Affinity Bloc:	Sub-Saharan Peoples
Progress Level:

Introduction / History

The various Senoufo groups live in the Middle Volta region of West Africa which includes parts of Cote d'Ivoire, Mali and Burkina Faso. They are divided into three groups: Northern, Central, and Southern, according to the three distinct language divisions. As a whole, the Senoufo tribes speak over thirty dialects. In France, the Senoufo peoples meld into one.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Like other people from former French African colonies, the Senoufo live in France's urban centers. Often, they are in areas inhabited mainly by other Africans. Thus, they experience a certain amount of pan-Africanism. Many do not view themselves as African, but as French. It's common for them to put their identity in being black because of what they see coming from American popular culture.
One important aspect of Senoufo society is its concept of "community." The Senoufo think of themselves as one group, with all of their ideas pointing in the same direction. The concept of the "individual" is known only in limited circumstances; thus, no man stands alone. Instead, each person is thought of as part of an extended family, a member of the village, the elder or younger brother, etc. A Senoufo is always aware of his place in the society as it relates to others in the group. To the Senoufo, the good of the community always comes before the good of the individual. Unless the entire tribe makes a change, such as converting to a different religion, no one does. This kind of community pressure is somewhat weakened in France. African diaspora people are still under the guidance of their leaders, but the control is not as absolute as it is in West Africa.

What Are Their Beliefs?

In France, the Senoufo can be Muslim, Christian or secular. Mosques and churches provide much needed social interaction.

What Are Their Needs?

Today, Senoufo society is rapidly changing. The Senoufo need an opportunity to hear the truth of the gospel before a total conversion to Islam takes place. There is a great need for intense prayers and increased evangelism efforts.

Prayer Points

Ask the Lord to call people who are willing to go to France and share Christ with the Senoufo and other African diaspora people.
Pray that the Holy Spirit will soften the hearts of the Senoufo towards the ways of Christ.
Ask the Lord to give the Senoufo believers courage to share the gospel with their own people.
Ask the Lord to raise up strong local fellowships of believers among each of the Senoufo tribes.