Shuwa Arab in Chad
pronounced: SHOO-uh

Populated with independent adventuresome nomads, Chad lies at the crossroads of a major trans-Saharan trade route and Africa's second largest wetland, Lake Chad. For years, various tribes and terrorist factions have fought for control of this region. The Shuwa Arabs of Chad are mostly nomadic, but some live in the villages and towns. Shuwa Arabs play a minor role in Chad's political arena. Statistics point to Chad as one of the world's poorest and most illiterate countries, but the people are hard-working and family-oriented.

Ministry Obstacles: Many missionaries have left because of the numerous conflicts, political upheavals and harsh living conditions. It appears that Chad is heading towards a time of instability which will make the problems worse.

Outreach Ideas: Chad's Arabs use the main language of the country, Chadian Arabic, which makes it strategic for evangelism. Because of massive cultural tensions between the country's southern Christian minority and northern Muslim majority, Nigerian believers may be best suited to carry the gospel to the unreached Shuwa Arabs.

Scripture Focus: "The LORD repay you for what you have done, and a full reward be given you by the LORD, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge!"
- Ruth 2:12

Prayer Focus Pray for today’s people group to seek and find refuge with the Lord and be rewarded. Pray for the Arab believers to discern between the animistic beliefs and practices of their culture and the biblical lifestyle under the sovereignty of the Lord. Pray that they would be able to provide adequately for the needs of their families. Pray for a Christ-ward movement that will bless the Arabs of Chad.