Upper Guinea Crioulo is a hybrid language that contains elements of Portuguese and local African languages. About 80 % of the lexicon is from Portuguese. It is spoken by people in three countries in West Africa: Guinea-Bissau, Guinea, and Senegal. Others speak it in the Netherlands, the United States, and Portugal.
Upper Guinea Crioulo emerged in the 1400s when Portuguese sailors and traders arrived on the West coast of Africa. It was developed by Africans who needed to communicate with the Portuguese. In time, it remained a trade language and a source of identity to those who speak it. Even after Guinea-Bissau's independence in 1973, it remained a trade language and a source of unity. Most remain in West African countries, but they are part of the African diasporas in the United States and the Netherlands.
Upper Guinea Crioulo is used not only for trade, but also for entertainment, music, and storytelling. In the Netherlands, they enjoy cultural celebrations with others from the African diaspora.
Those who speak this language are Christian, mostly Roman Catholic. There is also a strong evangelical element among them. Some are non-religious or Muslim. All kinds of evangelistic materials are in Upper Guinea Crioulo, including a complete Bible.
Upper Guinea Crioulo speakers need the spiritual hunger it takes to allow Jesus to take full control of their lives.
Pray for their spiritual and physical needs to be met in the Netherlands.
Pray for Upper Guinea Crioulo speakers to disciple others, including those from other languages and cultures.
Pray for the Holy Spirit to move powerfully in their families and churches.
Scripture Prayers for the Crioulo, Upper Guinea in Netherlands.
| Profile Source: Joshua Project |
