Bofi in Central African Republic

Bofi
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People Name: Bofi
Country: Central African Republic
10/40 Window: No
Population: 37,000
World Population: 37,000
Primary Language: Bofi
Primary Religion: Christianity
Christian Adherents: 88.00 %
Evangelicals: 26.00 %
Scripture: Translation Started
Ministry Resources: No
Jesus Film: No
Audio Recordings: No
People Cluster: Ubangian
Affinity Bloc: Sub-Saharan Peoples
Progress Level:

Introduction / History

The Bofi are an Ubangian-speaking people of southwestern Central African Republic, living around Boda, Bimbo, and the Ngotto Forest. Some are farmers, while others descend from forest foragers closely related to Bambenga pygmies. Historical trade and forest life shaped their mixed farming–foraging identity. Their primary language is Bofi.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Most Bofi practice small-scale farming, growing cassava, plantains, maize, and peanuts, while some still hunt, fish, and gather forest products. Extended families live in village clusters, sharing labor and food. Celebrations center on harvests, births, and community dances. Meals typically include cassava, forest vegetables, wild game, and fish.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Many Bofi identify as Christian, yet traditional beliefs in spirits, ancestors, and forest powers continue to influence daily life, blending church practices with ethnic religion.

What Are Their Needs?

Access to healthcare, education, clean water, and Scripture in their heart language remains limited. Ongoing instability and poverty restrict economic growth and consistent discipleship. The Bofi need access to the Scriptures, discipleship materials, and evangelism resources in the heart language.

Prayer Points

Pray for spiritual renewal, strong local churches, and trained leaders. Pray asking God to provide medical care, education, peace, and sustainable livelihoods. Pray for a faithful translation and wide distribution of the Scriptures, evangelism materials, and discipleship resources in the Bofi language. Pray that the Bofi Christians would lead their communities for God's glory, preach the Gospel, teach the Bible, plant churches, and make disciples of their own nation and beyond.

Text Source:   Joshua Project