Oromo, Jimma of Ethiopia

Oromo, Jimma of Ethiopia The various Oromo people groups are the largest, most widely dispersed groups in Ethiopia. Composed of approximately a dozen tribal clusters, these peoples prefer just the term "Oromo" when speaking of themselves. It is believed that the Oromo were pushed westward from the Horn of Africa by the Somali during the tenth century. Together with the Amhara and the Tigrai, they dominated the government and military classes of the Ethiopian Empire. During the nineteenth century, they largely converted to Islam. The Oromo are herdsmen with a warrior tradition. A man's status is determined by the number of livestock he owns. Warfare against enemies is honored, but peace within the group is demanded. One basic value of the Oromo is tokuma, which is identification with the group. The religious, social, political, and economic life of the Oromo revolves around this. Ministry Obstacles The Oromo are tied strongly to a group identity, and for an individual to change from the majority religion of the group suggests betrayal of the group. Outreach Ideas Pray some of the many evangelical Christians in Ethiopia will be able to share Christ with Oromo tribes. Pray for a heart to do this, and for opportunities. Pray for the followers of Christ There are some individuals within the Jimma Oromo tribe who identify themselves as Christians. Please pray the tribe will not treat these people as traitors, but will continue to treat them as part of the community. Pray for the entire people group Pray the Oromo tribes of Ethiopia will be able to provide improved education for their children, and for a rising standard of living. Scripture Focus "Do you not say, 'There are yet four months, and then comes the harvest?' Behold, I say to you, lift up your eyes and look on the fields, that they are white for harvest." John 4:35		People Name: Oromo, Jimma Country: Ethiopia 10/40 Window: Yes Population: 3,078,000 World Population: 3,084,000 Language: Oromo, West Central Primary Religion: Islam Bible: Complete Online Audio NT: Yes Jesus Film: Yes Audio Recordings: Yes Christ Followers: Few, less than 2% Status: Unreached Progress Level: 1.2