Jola-Fonyi

Quick facts about the Jola-Fonyi

Location: Senegal, Gambia, Senegal
Also Known As: Jola, Jola-Fogny
Status: Engaged by IMB
Population: 420,000
Primary Religion: Islam
Number of Christians: unknown
Language: Jola-Fonyi

Even though they may be Muslim or Catholic, they still rely on their traditional beliefs (animism, fear of witches, evil spirits, and curses) for health, protection, good crops, and anything they consider important.
Jola men are mainly subsistence farmers growing peanuts, millet and corn.
Jola woman are responsible for growing rice and taking care of the family.
Jolas are very hospitable and do everything to make visitors comfortable.

Pray that God will take the Jola-fonyi people out of darkness and lead them to Jesus Christ, “the light."

Learn more about the Jola-Fonyi!

Traditionally, the Jola-fonyi were animist (believing that natural objects possess souls) and resisted the influence of Islam until about 80 years ago. Today, most Jola-fonyi practice Folk Islam which is a veneer of Islamic practices mixed with their ancient animistic beliefs. Most adults and children wear charms to protect them from sickness and evil spirits. They can be seen praying at the mosques, but they also visit the marabou to ward off evil spirits, give good luck or combat illness. Some Jola-fonyi may make sacrificial offerings of vegetables, grain and animals hoping these sacrifices will satisfy the spirits of their ancestors. They believe that if the spirits are not pleased, they will take the form of an animal or other object and haunt them, curse their crops or even strike them with disease or death.