Introduction / History

The Gusiis are also called Abagusii or Kisii. Almost all of them live in Kenya, though a small number are in Tanzania.

They were regarded as warlike; frequent skirmishes with their neighbors were common until the British took control of Kenya. Even then, they were known to have cattle raids, so the British colonialists had punitive expeditions against them.

The Gusiis were not always at war with their neighbors; there was cooperation through trade.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Many of the Gusiis have been involved in Kenyan politics; they have good status.

Boys are circumcised at age 10 and put into seclusion. At this time they are initiated by older boys who teach them their roles as young men. This involves lessons on shame and honor. After the initiation, there is a celebration with their families and friends.

Their art includes soapstone carvings and various forms of music.

Typically, their families involve men and their wives, unmarried daughters, and uncircumcised boys. Family meals are often centered around their staple dish of obokima, made with millet and sorghum flour.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Gusiis are almost all Christian, though there is a remnant of traditional religion involving diviners. The most prominent denominations are Catholic, the Seventh-day Adventist Church, Swedish Lutheranism, and Pentecostal Assemblies of God.

What Are Their Needs?

Gusii elders and family leaders need to allow the Holy Spirit to move in their families and communities. They need a faith that is wholly given over to the Lord.

Prayer Items

Pray for the Holy Spirit to strengthen and purify the Gusii church and send them out as Christ’s ambassadors to a dying world.
Pray for many to be called to reach Somalia for Christ.
Pray for God’s blessing of Gusii families, drawing fathers to love their wives and children, forsaking anything that would get in their way.

Scripture Prayers for the Gusii in Kenya.

References

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kisii_people