The Jiye of South Sudan

Population: <12,000
 
Location and Background: The Jiye people live in the arid flat lowlands of the South East corner of South Sudan in Eastern Equatoria State. They are agri-pastoralists- they grow sorghum and raise cattle, sheep, and goats. The are very closely related to the Toposa of South Sudan and speak the same language. They are also related to the Karamojong of Uganda, Nyang’atom of Ethiopia, and the Turkana of Kenya. Their homeland is bordered by the Toposa to the South and East, the Ngipeta to the North, and the Nginyoro to the West. They have conflict with all these neighbors. 
 
History: The Jiye people originally came from Kotido Najie in the Karamoja region of Uganda. They left the area in search of water and pasture. They passed through several areas, but moved on after being attacked by the Toposa. They settled in Naliimtiira for a while and grew, but were eventually driven off by neighboring tribes (the Nginyoro and Ngipeta). Their leader, Natuliasia, advised them to divide into four groups to avoid being attacked as a large group. These four groups eventually became the clans of today: The Ngikurono, who worship wood ash and live in Lorumute; the Ngisirae, who worship the cheetah and live in Kesegor Hill; the Ngimokodol, who worship the millipede and live in Lopeat; and the Ngitarakaboon, who worship the hyena and also live in Lopeat.
 
Culture: The Jiye are fierce warriors. They compete with the Toposa for water and pasture. They engage in cattle rustling. They pierce and scar their bodies as marks of beauty. The women wear beaded head bands in colors which represent the clan of their husband.
 
Religion: The Jiye are ATR (animists)- they believe in a supreme being named Apayok, who resides in a crater in Mt Kesegor. They believe if you commit an offense against him, Apayok will not give you water when you visit him there. They believe Apayok sent a sorcerer named Natidiita to protect and guide them. They also believe in the spirits of their ancestors, with whom they communicate through a medium.

Latest Prayer Updates:

Open Roads

Oct 21, 2026 |

Jiye of South Sudan: Severe hunger and water shortages are threatening Jiye families and their livestock. Compounding this physical crisis, regional insecurity and road closures have cut off communities, making it extremely difficult for relief supplies and ministry teams to reach those who are struggling. Please pray that security will be restored so roads can safely reopen, allowing food, better water access, and outside aid to reach vulnerable families—especially children and the elderly. May the Lord bring an end to local conflicts and in Jesus Name may there be lasting reconciliation across the region. Pray for the local believers to be filled with the Holy Spirit to serve as courageous witnesses—demonstrating Christ’s love through practical care, sharing the Good News, and leading peacemaking efforts in their communities.

Cycle of Violence

Jul 2, 2026 | ,

Toposa and Jiye of South Sudan: Violence between these peoples has continued as conflict over cattle has led to bloodshed in several communities. Long-standing tribal tensions have brought grief and instability to families already facing many hardships. Pray that God would bring reconciliation between the Toposa and Jiye peoples, end the cycle of violence!  Pray for the Lord to raise up peacemakers who know the Prince of Peace. Ask that the Gospel would transform hearts and bring lasting hope to the Toposa and Jiye peoples.

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