Affinity Group: Sub-Saharan African Peoples

Affinity Bloc: Sub-Saharan African

People Cluster: Songhai

Language: Dendi (Benin) - (ddn)

Alternate Name(s):

Primary Religion: Islam - Folk Islam

Country: Benin

Also found in: Niger; Nigeria

Population: 313,000

Global Population: 457,800

Progress of the Gospel: Engaged yet Unreached

Global Status of Evangelical Christianity: Less than 2% Evangelical, No Active CP Activity

Overview: The Dendi of Benin, numbering 313,000, are Engaged yet Unreached. They are part of the Songhai people cluster within the Sub-Saharan African affinity bloc. Globally, this group totals 457,800 in 3 countries. Their primary language is Dendi (Benin). The primary religion practiced by the Dendi is Folk Islam, a syncretistic belief system that blends traditional elements of Islam with superstitious practices such as warding off spirits with incantations and magic amulets, and reciting verses of the Qur'an to bring about miraculous healings.

Bible Translations: Available

Jesus Film: Available

Gospel Recordings: Available

Radio Broadcast: Available