Khik (Wakhi) in Afghanistan

Introduction / History

The Guhjali, also known as the mountain Tajiks, are of the Tajik people cluster. They are also called the Guhiali, Khik, Vakhan, Wakhani, Wakhi, Wakhigi, or Wakhs.
The Wakhi are found in China, Pakistan, Tajikistan, and Afghanistan. In Afghanistan, they are found in small, remote villages in the lower altitudes in the Wakhan Corridor and upper Badakshan. They mostly reside in 64 villages on the left bank of the Panj River in the Wakhan Corridor.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Kirghiz live in the high mountain valleys of the area, while the Wakhi lived in the lowlands areas. Relations between the two groups are often tense, yet both groups are economically dependent on each other. The Kirghiz depend on the Wakhi for grain, while the Wakhi depend on the Kirghiz for animals. The center of the areas where they reside is Khandud. Many have scattered and are refugees now. They speak Wakhi, and Indo- Iranian language. The literacy rate is below 1%.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Wakhi are Ismaili Shia Muslims. Some, however, are Imami Shia and Sunni. There are few, if any, Christians or churches among them. There are no known groups working among them. There are Christian audio recordings available in their language.

What Are Their Needs?

The Wakhi people need better schools to they can improve their literacy rate. This could open doors for them to advance economically.

Prayer Points

Pray that the Wakhi people will have a spiritual hunger that will open their hearts to the King of kings.
Pray for workers who will share the good news and tell the Wakhi people how to follow the Lord.
Pray for a movement to Christ among all the Wakhi peoples everywhere.

Text Source:   Joshua Project