Introduction / History

The Vemgo-Mabas people live in northeastern Nigeria and northern Cameroon. Historically, they fled to the hills to resist the Fulani Islamic wars.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Most of the Vemgo-Mabas are farmers. They raise peanuts, maize and millet on hillside terraces. A man's work includes farming, crafting leather, making baskets, spinning, weaving and building. Women make clay objects, train the small children, prepare meals and do other household activities.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Most have become Muslim and wear traditional Islamic dress. Others are split between traditional religious beliefs that they have held for centuries and Christianity, which came through missionary efforts in the last 90 years. Although the Vemgo-Mabas have shown interest in Christian teachings, only a small percentage have accepted Jesus as Savior.

Most Vemgo-Mabas believe in a single god. They say that he is the creator of all things and keeps his creation in order. They believe that this god only intervenes with his creation when order has been disturbed. The Vemgo-Mabas do not pray to this god, but rather to their ancestors, whom they believe will intercede on their behalf. They believe that the Earth is the "mother goddess" who has birthed all other supernatural beings, including thunder, lightning, black snakes, crocodiles and certain inanimate objects.

What Are Their Needs?

The Vemgo-Mabas have no portions of the Bible in their language. Currently, no Christian radio or television broadcasts are being aired in their language either. Most have never heard a clear presentation of the gospel.

Additional laborers, evangelistic materials, and Bible translation are needed. They need to know that the Creator is not an impersonal god, rather, he is a loving savior who cares for them and wants them freed from slavery to the spirits through fear.

Prayer Points

Pray for Vemgo-Mabas family leaders to understand who Jesus is and embrace him and teach their families to do the same.
Pray for the Holy Spirit to move mightily in Vemgo-Mabas churches in the coming years.
Pray for Vemgo-Mabas disciples to make more disciples, especially among Muslims.

Scripture Prayers for the Vemgo-Mabas in Cameroon.

References

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