The Amazigh of North Africa

The Amazigh of North Africa are the original inhabitants of the land. They are often called the Berbers. Amazigh means ‘free men’. Many were once Christian. St.Augustine of Hippo was Amazigh.

Pray that Augustine’s prayer would be prayed by many Amazigh: “Thou hast made us for thyself, O Lord, and our heart is restless until it finds its rest in Thee.” (Psalm 62:5 “Yes, my soul, find rest in God”)

Population: 25-36 million

Location and Background: Amazigh are found throughout North Africa with large populations in the mountain and rural areas of Morocco and Algeria. There are also 2 million residing in France. Amazigh are the indigenous people of North Africa, dating back thousands of years.

Culture: The Amazigh are traditionally farmers and herders, nomads and traders. They make the famous Berber carpets. The nomadic Tuaregs of the Sahara Desert are Amazigh.

Religion: Islam, with traces of former religious practices.