The Lobi of Cote d’Ivoire

Stats
•Population of the Lobi – 218,158
•Percentage of Evangelicals – 0.35%
•Language Spoken – Lobi
•Major Religion – Ethnic Religions
•Human Development Rank of Cote d’Ivoire – 163
•Persecution Index – N/A

Cote d’Ivoire gained its independence from France in 1960 and thrived becoming one of the most prosperous countries of the West African states. But near the end of the twentieth century, Cote d’Ivoire experienced a military coup that has resulted in a continual state of government instability. This instability has led to Cote d’Ivoire being one of the poorest countries in the world. The Lobi people are one of 84 people groups in Cote d’Ivoire. The Lobi people stretch over three countries, Burkina Faso, Cote d’Ivoire, and Ghana with over 200 thousand residing in Cote d’Ivoire. Lobis mainly are animistic in their beliefs centering their worship on deceased ancestors and objects of nature. There are very few Lobis who have heard the gospel and even fewer who have trusted in Christ. There are currently portions of the Bible translated in the Lobi language, but the full translation of both Testaments has not been completed. Physical poverty and limited exposure to the gospel combine for a great need for prayer.

•Cote d’Ivoire is one of the 20 poorest countries in the world. Pray for God to provide in a mighty way for the people of Cote d’Ivoire.
•Pray that the gospel is heard and seen by the more than 218 thousand Lobis.
•Pray for the translation of the whole Bible into a language that the Lobis can read and understand.
•Ask God to build up His church among the Lobi in Cote d’Ivoire to be a beacon of the gospel for His name’s sake.