Zarma in Niger

The Zarma are farmers who use simple tools; they do not have access to modern farming equipment. They live in the Sahel Desert in Niger and surrounding countries, which makes farming very difficult. Some are fishermen, businessmen or teachers. They have little time for leisure activities.

Ministry Obstacles

Though Islam was introduced to them by outsiders, the Zarma have embraced it as their own. They believe that the Bible is unreliable and that they can only trust the Koran. This closes them to Jesus, who is the truth.

Outreach Ideas

The Zarma are considered part of the larger Songhai cluster of peoples. The two groups treat each other as cousins and frequently intermarry, so gospel efforts among one can be used for the other. If they heard the teachings of the Bible, some would be drawn to it and the God who gave truth to mankind.

Scripture Focus

"The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!"  John 1:29

Scripture Prayer

Pray that today’s people group looks to the Lamb of God, Jesus, to have their sins taken away.

Prayer Focus

Pray for the Lord to thrust out workers to the Zarma people in Niger this decade. Pray for the Lord to show himself loving and powerful by providing adequate rain for the Zarma people, who live in a dry land. Pray for spiritual hunger and openness to the teachings and ways of Jesus Christ.