Bug, Mangayat in South Sudan
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Map Source:
Joshua Project / Global Mapping International
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| People Name: | Bug, Mangayat |
| Country: | South Sudan |
| 10/40 Window: | No |
| Population: | 700 |
| World Population: | 700 |
| Primary Language: | Gbaya |
| Primary Religion: | Islam |
| Christian Adherents: | 20.00 % |
| Evangelicals: | 5.00 % |
| Scripture: | New Testament |
| Ministry Resources: | Yes |
| Jesus Film: | Yes |
| Audio Recordings: | Yes |
| People Cluster: | Adamawa-Ubangi |
| Affinity Bloc: | Sub-Saharan Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
The Mangayat, also known as Bugwa or Bukwa, are a small ethnic group located in Western Bahr el Ghazal, South Sudan. Historically, the Mangayat have lived in remote, hilly regions near the Sopo and Kagulu Rivers, and colonial and post-colonial conflicts, including the Turko-Egyptian occupation, Mahdist rule, and the Sudanese civil wars have shaped their history.
What Are Their Lives Like?
Mangayats live in isolated, mountainous areas with limited infrastructure. Their economy is based on subsistence farming, hunting, and trading with neighboring groups. They grow crops such as sorghum and millet and rely on natural resources for survival. Social life is organized around clan and family structures, and their cultural identity is preserved through oral traditions, rituals, and community gatherings. However, due to their small population and geographic isolation, their way of life is increasingly vulnerable to external pressures and modernization.
What Are Their Beliefs?
The Mangayat are predominantly Sunni Muslim, though their religious practices may incorporate traditional animistic elements. Islam likely spread to the Mangayat through trade and contact with neighboring Muslim communities. There is little evidence of Christian influence, and the tribe remains largely unreached from a gospel perspective.
What Are Their Needs?
Living in remote areas, they lack access to basic healthcare and formal education. Infrastructure development is essential to improve their quality of life.Their oral history and traditions are at risk of being lost. Efforts to document and preserve their heritage are urgently needed.
Prayer Points
Pray for peace and stability in Western Bahr el Ghazal to allow safe outreach and development.Intercede for improved access to healthcare and education in Mangayat communities.Pray for the protection of their cultural identity and for wisdom among leaders seeking to preserve it.Pray for the Mangayats to take up their role as Christ’s ambassadors to those who don’t know about the only Savior.