Kotokoli

Quick facts about the Kotokoli

  • Location: Togo, Benin, Ghana
  • Also Known As: Tem
  • Status: Engaged by IMB
  • Population: 350,000
  • Primary Religion: Islam
  • Number of Christians: 250 (including Catholics)
  • Language: Tem
  • The Kotokoli’s homeland is around the town of Sokode, but spills over the borders of Benin and Ghana.
  • The Kotokolis, closely kin to the Kabiye, were more advanced socially until they converted to Islam in the early 20th century.
  • They are now solidly Muslim, except for a small group that were converted to Catholicism before Islam cameto Togo.
  • The Kotokolis are divided politically.

Pray for:

  • Follow-up with those who listen to the radio programs. We have few Christians and these programs are broadcast over large listening ara.
  • the translation of the Bible. It has been in progress for 20 years and only two books are complete.
  • the literacy project so the Kotokoli will be able to read the Bible as it’s published. The present literacy rate is less than 5%!
  • The creation of a Kotokoli church that would have a vision for reaching their own people. Presently, the new converts are being directed into existing Baptist churches.

Learn more about the Kotokoli!

In villages the Kotokolis are farmers, but the majority of the Kotokolis live in cities all along the coastal countries of West Africa.  Wherever they are they tend to congregate in neighborhoods called “Zongo” (strangers place).  They are usually taxi drivers or market sellers. The Kotokolis adhere solidly to their Islamic tradition but most also mix it with their ancient pagan practices.  So they actually practice something called “Folk Islam.” The Kotokoli are polite and will listen to a gospel witness; but it is rare for a Kotokoli to convert to Christ. Tremendous social and/or physical pressure is exerted on anyone who shows signs of wanting to become a Christian.

Most Kotokolis who are now Christian came to the Lord through a Christian family member or through special revelations (dreams, signs or healings.)  Use of the Jesus film in Tem and radio programs in their language has been effective in reaching the Kotokolis.