Muslim UPGs of the Nuba Mountains
Population: About 2.8 million
The total population of the Nuba Mountain region is approximately 4.2 million. It is estimated that over a million Nuba are internally displaced, and many have fled to neighboring countries, others have permanently resettled in the North.
Location and Background:The Nuba mountains are located in South Kordofan State in Central Sudan. It is a remote and inaccessible area; traditionally a place of refuge for people fleeing oppression.
History: Nuba people are comprised of perhaps more than 90 different ethnic groups with unique language and culture. Out of more than 90 tribes 60 remain Unreached and Unengaged. There has been enmity between Nuba peoples and the ruling Arab Sudanese for a long time.
The Nuba Mountain Region of Sudan has experienced conflict and crisis for many years, with fighting between the Sudanese government forces and the Sudan Liberation Movement (SPLM). The conflict has resulted in widespread displacement, food insecurity and human rights abuses.
In the current war crisis in Khartoum, over 400,000 Sudanese and Nubans have fled to Nuba Mountains for refuge, with mixed flow movement projected to continue to rise if the conflict expands.
Culture: Nuba people practice farming during the rainy season and raise livestock, mainly cattle and goats. They grow crops such as maize and sorghum cultivated without irrigation.
They are known for their traditional wrestling competition, which is still common practice in the community and promotes their culture as well as individuals’ personal strength and village pride.
Religion: Islam
Creative, Mobile Education
Nuba Mtn Muslim UPGs: Conflict has disrupted education for many children. The violence has made normal school attendance almost impossible. Pray for creative ways to provide learning opportunities. We ask God to anoint mobile education efforts to reach children and communities. Pray for our Teachers Training Program. Pray that the Lord will protect and give strength to teachers. Pray that these children would be spared physically, mentally, and spiritually from the horrible lasting effects of war. Most of all, pray that the hope of the Gospel would reach the next generation in the Nuba Mountains—that children would come to know the love of Christ and grow into young people who bring His hope and peace to their families and communities.
Comfort and restoration
Nuba Mtn Muslim UPGs: Please pray for peace in the Nuba Mountains. Pray for comfort for those affected by attacks, abductions, and displacement, healing for children, strength for trauma healers in ongoing training, and full restoration for those recently released and kept safe. Pray for an end to the conflict, wisdom for leaders, and healing between communities. Pray especially for children and families carrying deep wounds. Ask God to bring full restoration. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide and strengthen those walking alongside them. May God’s peace take root in homes and communities throughout the Nuba Mountains.
