Introduction / History

The Teleki Terki are a Chadic-speaking people living in Cameroon's Far North Region, especially in the Mayo-Tsanaga area around Tchevi village. Their language, Matsuva, also known as Tsuvan or Terki/Teleki, is spoken across several small settlements clustered within a mountainous zone. The Teleki Terki trace their roots through generations of migration within northern Cameroon, forming tightly knit communities shaped by shared speech, clan structure, and the rugged terrain that surrounds them.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Teleki Terki communities depend heavily on subsistence farming, cultivating millet, sorghum, groundnuts, and small garden crops suited to the semi-arid climate. Some families keep goats or chickens and gather wild plants when seasonal crops are scarce. Daily work is shaped by rainfall patterns and long-standing agricultural techniques passed down through families.

Meals often include grain-based porridges, beans, and locally available vegetables. Family networks are strong, with elders playing key roles in guiding decisions and maintaining social cohesion. Homes are clustered in small neighborhoods, and families support each other through shared labor and collective problem-solving.

Celebrations occur during harvest seasons, weddings, and important communal events. Storytelling, rhythmic music, and dance may accompany these gatherings, reinforcing cultural identity and intergenerational bonds.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Most Teleki Terki identify with Islam, which shapes their daily rhythms, community values, and family life. Islamic teachings guide moral instruction, prayer practices, and social responsibilities. A small number follow Christianity and gather where churches exist, forming small groups of believers who desire to grow in faith. Some households preserve elements of older local beliefs, but the dominant spiritual framework throughout the community is Islamic.

From a Bible-believing Christian standpoint, Jesus Christ offers hope and blessing for every Teleki Terki family, and the presence of even a few believers provides a seed for gospel growth.

What Are Their Needs?

Teleki Terki communities face significant challenges due to limited water access, seasonal food insecurity, and restricted medical care. Economic opportunities remain minimal, and many young adults must travel to find work. Education is not consistently available, and local infrastructure can be difficult to maintain in remote mountainous areas.

Spiritually, Christian families in the area benefit from strong discipleship and encouragement. Access to Scripture in Matsuva and ongoing support for emerging believers will help cultivate resilience, deepen understanding, and prepare followers of Jesus to share His hope with their neighbors.

Prayer Items

Pray for the strengthening of Teleki Terki believers and for the Holy Spirit to deepen their love for God's Word.
Ask God to provide consistent food supplies, safe water sources, and improved medical care.
Pray for peace, protection, and stability in their remote communities.
Pray that Teleki Terki Christians will joyfully send workers to neighboring peoples who lack a gospel witness.

Scripture Prayers for the Terki, Teleki in Cameroon.

References

https://joshuaproject.net/people_groups/15446/CM
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tsuvan_language
http://www.language-archives.org/language/tsh