Dinka, Southwestern in South Sudan

Introduction / History

The Southwestern Dinka speak Dinka, Southwestern, a Nilotic language within the Eastern Sudanic branch of the Nilo-Saharan family. This language is indigenous to South Sudan and is used as a first language by all members of the ethnic group. The Dinka people, including the Southwestern subgroup, are believed to have originated from the Gezira region in modern-day Sudan. They migrated southward due to conflict, slave raids, and environmental pressures.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Southwestern Dinka are transhumant agro-pastoralists, meaning they move seasonally with their cattle between riverine pastures and permanent settlements. Cattle are central to their economy, social structure, and spiritual life. They grow millet during the rainy season and rely heavily on livestock for food, trade, and cultural rituals. Their homes are traditionally built with wooden poles and thatched roofs, and their communities are organized into autonomous political units based on clan and lineage.

What Are Their Beliefs?

While Christianity is the largest religion among the Southwestern Dinka (approximately 79%), many still practice African Traditional Religion. Their traditional beliefs include reverence for Nhialic, the creator god, and a pantheon of ancestral spirits. Rituals and sacrifices are common, especially in response to moral transgressions or life events. Despite the spread of Christianity, traditional ceremonies and spiritual leadership roles remain influential.

What Are Their Needs?

Although many identify as Christian, there is a need for deeper discipleship and biblical teaching. There is a shortage of trained Christian workers among the Southwestern Dinka, especially in remote areas.Years of civil conflict have disrupted traditional life and caused displacement. In refugee camps and rural areas, clean water is scarce. Boreholes are often insufficient or contaminated. Medical care and schooling are limited, especially in displaced communities.

Prayer Points

Pray for spiritual revival among the Southwestern Dinka, that nominal Christians would grow in faith and understanding of the Gospel.Ask God to raise up local leaders and evangelists who can disciple others and plant churches in unreached areas.Pray for healing and reconciliation in communities affected by tribal conflict and displacement.Intercede for access to clean water, healthcare, and education, especially in refugee camps and rural villages.Pray for the translation and distribution of Scripture in the Southwestern Dinka language, and for its impact on hearts and minds.

Text Source:   Joshua Project