Kabiye in Ghana

Introduction / History

The Kabiye people, also known as Kabre, Cabrai, or Kabye, are an ethnic group living in the north-central mountains and northern plains of Togo, particularly around the Kara Region. Others live in Ghana and Benin. They speak the Kabiye language, a member of the Gur language family, which is one of Togo’s two national languages.Historically, the Kabiye are known as mountain farmers and warriors, cultivating harsh, rocky terrain. Their origin myth traces their ancestry to Awu, a figure said to have descended from heaven in the village of Lama Dessi, now a sacred pilgrimage site.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Kabiye live in clay-built villages nestled in mountainous terrain. Their economy is based on subsistence agriculture, growing cotton, millet, and yams. Many also migrate seasonally for labor. Social life is deeply communal, and the Evala wrestling festival is a key rite of passage for young men, marking their transition into adulthood through physical and spiritual trials.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Their predominant religious affiliation is traditional animism. Animism remains dominant, with beliefs in spiritual essence within natural entities and ancestral worship. Christianity is growing, but syncretism is common, blending traditional beliefs with Christian practices. Evangelical Christians are a strong minority, but many communities lack deep biblical engagement.

What Are Their Needs?

They need discipleship and theological training. Many pastors and church leaders lack access to sound biblical education. Evangelistic media tools must be expanded. Audio Bibles and the Jesus Film are available, but radio broadcasts are not yet accessible in Kabiye. Youth-focused ministries are needed. The Evala initiation rite is culturally significant, and gospel-centered alternatives could help reach young men. Church planting efforts should be strengthened. Despite engagement, the Kabiye remain unreached in many areas, with limited active church planting.

Prayer Points

Pray for the revision and distribution of the full Bible in the Kabiye language and for increased literacy among Kabiye speakers.Ask God to raise up indigenous leaders and missionaries to disciple and plant churches in unreached Kabiye communities.Pray for spiritual renewal among nominal Christians and for clarity in gospel understanding.Intercede for the breaking of animistic strongholds and for the light of Christ to shine in every village.Pray for unity among believers and for the gospel to transform families and cultural traditions.

Text Source:   Joshua Project