The Macaguan people, also known as Hitnü or Jitnü, are an indigenous group native to the Orinoco basin in eastern Colombia, particularly in the department of Arauca. Their language, Macaguán (Hitnü), belongs to the Guahiban language family and is spoken by a small number of people, many of whom are monolingual.
Historically, the Macaguan were semi-nomadic hunter-gatherers who lived in scattered settlements along rivers such as the Lipa, Ele, and Cuiloto. Their oral traditions, including myths like "Los hijos del venado" (Children of the Deer), reflect a deep connection to nature and their ancestral lands. However, armed conflict, petroleum exploitation, and displacement have severely impacted their traditional way of life.
The Macaguan live in rural resguardos (indigenous reserves) such as El Vigía in Arauquita. Their economy is based on subsistence agriculture, fishing, hunting, and craft production. They cultivate cassava, plantains, and maize, and gather forest products like palm fruits and iguana eggs. Artisanal crafts such as baskets and brooms made from local fibers are sold to intermediaries.
Despite their resilience, the community faces seasonal flooding, limited access to arable land, and restricted hunting rights due to encroachment by settlers. Younger generations are increasingly drawn to urban lifestyles and technology, which contributes to the erosion of traditional practices and language use.
The Macaguan traditionally practice an ethnoreligion deeply rooted in their cultural identity. Their spiritual worldview includes belief in a creator deity called Nakuanu tsetseri, and rituals involving hallucinogenic plants like yopo for spiritual communication and healing. These practices are led by shamans, who serve as spiritual guides and healers.
While Christianity has reached some members of the community, with a high percentage of Evangelical adherence, many still blend Christian beliefs with traditional spiritual practices. There are no known churches or Scripture translations in the Macaguán language, and missionary engagement remains minimal.
Cultural and linguistic preservation is critical. The loss of elders—keepers of oral traditions—and the declining use of the Macaguán language threaten the survival of their cultural identity.
Protection from violence and displacement is urgent. The community faces ongoing threats from armed groups and extractive industries, leading to forced migration and loss of ancestral lands.
Access to education and healthcare remains limited. While some efforts exist, such as indigenous schools with native teachers, these are sporadic and under-resourced. Many families aspire for their children to receive formal education and healthcare services.
Pray for spiritual awakening and discipleship among the Macaguan, that they may encounter the love and truth of Christ in ways that resonate with their culture.
Ask God to raise up indigenous leaders and missionaries who can share the gospel in the Macaguán language and context.
Intercede for peace and protection for the Macaguan people, especially from violence, displacement, and exploitation.
Pray for the preservation of their oral traditions and language, and for young people to rediscover the value of their heritage.
Lift up efforts to translate Scripture and create gospel resources in Macaguán, so that the word of God may be accessible and transformative.
Scripture Prayers for the Macaguan, Agualinda Guajibo in Colombia.
Macaguán Language – Wikipedia
Ethnologue – Macaguán Language Profile
PeopleGroups.org – Macaguan
ONIC – Hitnü-Macaguán
Periódico UNAL – Cultural Crisis of the Macahuán
Infografía – Victimization of Hitnü and Macaguán
IMB Prayer Guide – Macaguán
| Profile Source: Joshua Project |
