Samo, Samo Matya in Mali

Introduction / History

The Samo Matya Samos are a sub-group of the broader Samo people, who are part of the Mandinka ethnic family. Most live in southern Mali, especially in the Mopti region, though there are also some in neighboring Burkina Faso.

What Are Their Lives Like?

They are subsistence farmers who grow millet, sorghum, and corn. They usually have small livestock herds. Everyone in the village works together to plant and to harvest the crops.

Samo Matya families are patrilineal, meaning that inheritance is through the father’s line. Their families and kinship networks are strong. Elders have much authority, but decisions are done collectively.

Marriages are arranged, and some men have multiple wives.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Though some are Christian or Muslim, ethnic religion is dominant among the Samo Matyas. Their traditional religion involves spirit worship and ancestral veneration.

What Are Their Needs?

Living in rural West Africa, the Samo Matyas lack adequate medical care. They don’t have enough clean water for drinking. Educational opportunities are lacking, especially for girls. Even if they get an education, few have the chance to rise above being subsistence farmers.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Lord to send loving Christians to start medical clinics and water purification projects in Samo Matya villages.
Pray for their elders to have the spiritual hunger it takes to seek and find Christ no matter what the cost.
Pray for a record-high harvest that will show them that God is the only one to worship.

Text Source:   Joshua Project