Sharwa in Cameroon

Sharwa
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Map Source:  Joshua Project / Global Mapping International
People Name: Sharwa
Country: Cameroon
10/40 Window: No
Population: 9,900
World Population: 9,900
Primary Language: Sharwa
Primary Religion: Islam
Christian Adherents: 1.00 %
Evangelicals: 0.10 %
Scripture: Translation Started
Online Audio NT: No
Jesus Film: No
Audio Recordings: No
People Cluster: Chadic
Affinity Bloc: Sub-Saharan Peoples
Progress Level:

Introduction / History

The people of the Sharwa language are known as the "Sarwwa" in the village of Djeki and the "Majieke" in the village of Duva.

What Are Their Lives Like?

A few of their children attend a small school in Djeki, but in Duva and other villages there are no schools. Although they still use the Sharwa language in their families the state of the economy pressures them to use Fulfulde.
They live in a very hot and dry climate. Plants do not find it easy to take root and grow in such a hostile environment. Christianity has also struggled to take root among the Sharwa speakers.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Sharwa people are Sunni Muslims. Like most Muslims in Africa, they believe in the Five Pillars of Islam. Some are more devout than others when it comes to praying on Fridays and Fasting during the month of Ramadan. Few can afford the pilgrimage to Mecca.
They also worship and serve spirits that they believe are close enough to take care of their daily needs. This practice is frowned upon by orthodox Islam.

What Are Their Needs?

Living in an isolated area near the town of Bourrah, which is situated near the Nigerian border, this strongly Muslim group has been resistant to influences from the outside.

Prayer Points

Pray that they would have access to a clear and consistent oral presentation of the gospel, probably through the Fulfulde language.
Pray that a radio program or an evangelist will soon reach them.
Pray for the Holy Spirit to give them spiritual hunger.
Pray for dedicated workers from other parts of Africa.

Text Source:   Joshua Project