The Neem of Chad
Neem
Population: 300,000
Location: Mostly Eastern Chad and some in Sudan. The Neem are one of the largest non-Arab people groups in Chad. They are the dominant tribe of the Wadai mountains. The Wadai region is hot and dry most of the year, characterized by broad flat grasslands and plateaus.
History: Long ago the Neem overthrew the Christian Tunjur dynasty in Wadai and formed the backbone of the Islamic Wadai Empire, which dominated Eastern Chad in the 1800s. In modern Neem society, chiefs and members of the royal class still possess a high degree of prestige and power, although the French abolished the sultanate in 1912.
Culture: Although they are Muslims, people live in fear, using amulets and charms to ward off evil and sickness. They are primarily farmers, growing millet and wheat, as well as raising horses, goats, sheep, and chickens. The Sultan serves as head of state of the region and rules through governors and district chiefs. The Queen Mother is highly esteemed and has great influence.
Religion: Folk Islam
Latest Prayer Updates:
Transitions and Opposition
Neem of Chad: Please pray for the UPG we call the “Neem” of Chad during a season of significant transition and uncertainty. The team working among this group is experiencing many changes. One teammate is retiring, and another family cannot return because of the visa ban for Americans. Unless the visa situation changes very soon, the one remaining family will need to relocate in June (to a place where they can receive stronger support and serve in community). If these changes proceed, there may soon be no long-term workers remaining in this area. Pray for open doors for future ministry among the Neem. There has been increasing spiritual opposition and community resistance. In one nearby village where deep relationships were once strong, some people are now hesitant to engage openly with foreigners because of pressure from local religious leaders. Pray especially for “Ruth” who has spent years quietly listening to and considering the Good News—that she and others would have courage, conviction of sin, and come to believe in Jesus as Lord. Pray that hearts would open and that seeds planted over many years would bear fruit in God’s timing.
Medical outreach
We are finishing a medical outreach in a village of mixed Arabs and Neem treating mentally ill and epileptics in the name of the church. While one of us sees patients (50+ preregistered!), another is spending time chatting with those who are waiting. Pray for stamina for the doctor with so many new patients and for open hearts and minds for those listening. My colleague is using film and audio as he talks with people. We pray for many seeds to be sown.
