Okolie in South Sudan
Send Joshua Project a photo
of this people group. |
Send Joshua Project a map of this people group.
|
| People Name: | Okolie |
| Country: | South Sudan |
| 10/40 Window: | No |
| Population: | 17,000 |
| World Population: | 17,000 |
| Primary Language: | Okolie |
| Primary Religion: | Christianity |
| Christian Adherents: | 75.00 % |
| Evangelicals: | 3.00 % |
| Scripture: | Translation Started |
| Ministry Resources: | No |
| Jesus Film: | No |
| Audio Recordings: | No |
| People Cluster: | Nilotic |
| Affinity Bloc: | Sub-Saharan Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
|
Introduction / History
The Okolie people are a part of the larger Lango ethnic group in South Sudan, primarily inhabiting the Equatoria region. They belong to the Nilotic community and share cultural and historical connections with other groups from the Nile basin. Traditionally, the Okolie lived in clan-based communities, where elders guided decisions regarding land, family matters, and spiritual practices. Their language belongs to the Luo language group, and many also communicate in Juba Arabic.
What Are Their Lives Like?
The Okolie people primarily reside in rural villages, relying on farming, fishing, and small-scale animal husbandry for their livelihoods. Their diet mainly consists of sorghum, millet, and maize, while fish from local rivers and streams serve as an additional food source. Family life is centered around extended kinship networks, and there is a strong sense of community, with residents cooperating in daily labor. However, access to modern infrastructure, such as schools, healthcare, and roads, remains limited, particularly in remote areas that are affected by conflict and poverty.
What Are Their Beliefs?
Traditionally, the Okolie people held animistic beliefs focused on ancestral spirits and a supreme creator god. They conducted rituals, sacrifices, and ceremonies to seek protection, fertility, and blessings. Today, many identify as Christians, either Catholic or Protestant, but traditional beliefs often blend with their church affiliations. This blending of beliefs means that while some individuals have heard the gospel, many have not fully embraced discipleship or accepted faith in Christ as their sole hope for salvation.
What Are Their Needs?
The Okolie community faces several physical challenges, including limited access to healthcare, food insecurity, and inadequate educational resources. Many families are affected by regional instability and displacement. Spiritually, there is a strong need for clear biblical teaching, discipleship in the local language, and training for leaders who can guide their communities in faith. The gospel message of peace and hope can address their deepest needs in the midst of these hardships.
Prayer Points
Pray for the spread of God’s word in the local language and for strong discipleship among new believers that will lead to more Christ-centered discipleship.Pray for improved access to healthcare, clean water, and education in their villages.Pray for faithful leaders to rise up and guide their communities in the truth of Jesus Christ.