Siwa Berber in Egypt

The Siwa people mostly live in the Siwa oasis, a very remote, arid desert location in the far west of Egypt, close to the Libyan border. They live in a compact, walled town and in several outlying villages. The people are culturally closer to the Berbers of Libya than they are to Egyptians and have their own language, Siwi. Wealth distinctions are very important to the Siwa.

Ministry Obstacles

The Siwa oasis is in a very isolated area and the residents have been somewhat cut off from broader society for hundreds of years. Nearly all have embraced Sunni Islam. Although the Siwa observe Islamic fundamentals, many pre-Islamic traditional beliefs persist.

Outreach Ideas

Tourists visit the Siwa Oasis, as it has some interesting features. This offers some interesting possibilities insofar as bringing the gospel to these people. One way to reach the youth would be to help them acquire useful business skills.

Scripture Focus

"Those who look to him are radiant, and their faces shall never be ashamed."  Psalm 34:5

Scripture Prayer

May there be many from this people group who look only to the Lord for help, and may they be filled with joy and peace.

Prayer Focus

Ask the Lord to call loving servants to go to Egypt and share Christ. Pray that the doors of Egypt would soon open to workers and evangelistic tools. Ask the Holy Spirit to soften the hearts of Siwa Berbers and Egyptian leaders towards the gospel. Ask the Lord to raise up a network of strong local churches among Siwa Berbers.