Fulakunda

Quick facts about the Fulakunda

Location: Guinea-Bissau, Senegal, Guinea
Also Known As: Fula, Fulani, Fufulde
Status: Engaged by IMB
Population: 2,000,000
Primary Religion: Islam
Number of Christians: less than 0.1%
Language: Pulaar

99% Muslim, the Fulakunda have embraced Islam over the last 70 years.
They are a sub-grouping of the Fulani, a large people group spread across West Africa.
Missionaries are beginning to see a growing responsiveness among the Fulakunda.

Learn more about the Fulakunda!

Though 99% of the Fulakunda claim to be Muslim, much of their beliefs and lifestyle still have roots in animistic traditions and beliefs. This is evident as health and daily problems drive them to the local “marabout” (witchdoctor) for amulets (which are charms). These are designed to help with whatever problem they may be facing.

Historically the Fulakunda were predominantly nomadic herdsmen of cattle, sheep, and goats. The movements were based upon the availability of food supplies for their herds. Though the cattle were rarely eaten and remained a symbol of wealth, the sheep and goats were used for trade in the villages to obtain rice, millet, corn, clothing, and other goods. Although they continue to raise sheep, goats and cattle, they have begun to settle into a more agrarian lifestyle, growing millet, corn, peanuts and manioc.