Introduction / History

The Gisu Masaba are a large Bantu people group who live in eastern Uganda, Mbale and Sironko Districts, adjacent to Mt. Elgon at the Kenyan border. A smaller number live in Kenya. They were the first people to inhabit the western and southwestern slopes of Mt. Elgon. The area is considered the food-basket of Uganda and is also known for producing high-quality Arabica coffee, the main cash crop.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Gisu Masaba are subsistence farmers, growing bananas, sweet and Irish potatoes, cabbage, tomatoes and onions. They also raise cattle and other livestock and trade on a small scale. The main custom that distinguishes them from other tribes is their tradition of male circumcision. They see this rite as their defining feature as a tribe. They also have different naming rituals and worship a different local god than their neighbors, although the majority belong to one of the many Christian churches in the area.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Though traditional African religion is prominent in their communities, the Gisu Masabas are Christianized.

What Are Their Needs?

The problem they face is the dense population and limited land; all his sons inherit a father's land, so the land is being divided further and further into increasingly small plots.

They need proper housing, especially housing situations that can withstand floods and landslides. They also need clean drinking water.

Prayer Items

Pray for the Holy Spirit to move powerfully in Gisu Masaba churches and families.
Pray for them to draw close to the only Savior, Jesus Christ, and desire an even closer walk with him.
Pray for hundreds to be called and sent by their churches to the spiritually lost in Africa.

Scripture Prayers for the Masaba, Bamasaba in Uganda.

References

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