The Avukaya are an ethnic group in South Sudan, primarily located in the Equatoria region near the Democratic Republic of Congo. They are known for their culture, which includes the Mamburuku dance, and a diet that features foods like Pirinda and Nyasa. Many Avukaya speak their own language and also use languages such as Pa-Zande, Moru, and Baka. Some Avukaya people have been displaced to the Democratic Republic of Congo due to persecution.Historically, they are associated with areas like Maridi and Mundri County, inhabiting the rainforests along the border. A significant historical event involved the Avukaya uniting with the Moru to resist an invasion by King Gbudwe of the Azande. In this event, they famously used their mountain territories to their advantage.
The Avukaya people of South Sudan live a traditional lifestyle centered around rainforest settlements in the Equatoria region, with a diet of sorghum/millet/cassava flour (Nyasa), pirinda (African curry paste), and wild fruits.
The majority of Avukaya in South Sudan are Christian, with significant adherence to various forms of Christianity like Neo-Pentecostalism. However, a portion of the population also still adheres to traditional or ethnic religions, making them a diverse religious group.
The Avukaya in South Sudan require basic humanitarian assistance, including food, clean water, shelter, and medical care, due to widespread food shortages, a lack of clean water sources, a collapsing health system, and inadequate infrastructure common to the broader South Sudanese population, which also impacts the Avukaya.The Avukayas’ traditional spiritual beliefs are rooted in a complex, ethnoreligious belief system that encompasses a belief in a supreme being (God), spirits, and a strong connection between the spiritual and material worlds. These needs are expressed through practices like purification rituals, belief in witchcraft, and the use of charms for protection against insecurity and the horrors of war. They also need spiritual renewal and commitment to traditional practices, even as many also identify as Christians.
Pray for the nominal Christians that they will repent and experience a renewal from God.Pray for deliverance from the Evil One and protection against spiritual attacks from witchcraft in the powerful name of Jesus Christ.Pray for those who are involved in seeking spiritual protection against wars, and that they can find this “super-being” to be the Creator of this Universe.Pray for a complete and accurate Bible translation into their language, and that they will have the gift of faith to believe and act on Christ’s teachings.
Scripture Prayers for the Avukaya in South Sudan.
https://www.101lasttribes.com/tribes/avukaya.htmlhttps://alchetron.com/Avukaya-people
| Profile Source: Joshua Project |
