Duau, Lomitawa in Papua New Guinea
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| People Name: | Duau, Lomitawa |
| Country: | Papua New Guinea |
| 10/40 Window: | No |
| Population: | 10,000 |
| World Population: | 10,000 |
| Primary Language: | Duau |
| Primary Religion: | Christianity |
| Christian Adherents: | 99.00 % |
| Evangelicals: | 22.00 % |
| Scripture: | Portions |
| Ministry Resources: | No |
| Jesus Film: | No |
| Audio Recordings: | Yes |
| People Cluster: | New Guinea |
| Affinity Bloc: | Pacific Islanders |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
The Duau are an Austronesian-speaking people living on Normanby Island in Milne Bay Province, Papua New Guinea. They have a long seafaring heritage, with traditions shaped by trade, fishing, and clan-based leadership. Early contact with missionaries introduced Christianity, which has influenced their identity alongside traditional customs.
What Are Their Lives Like?
Daily life centers on fishing, gardening (yams, taro), and small-scale trade. Extended families live communally, with strong kinship ties guiding responsibilities. Celebrations include feasts, dances, and exchanges tied to life events. Diets rely on seafood, root crops, and coconut.
What Are Their Beliefs?
Most identify as Christian, influenced by historic mission work, yet elements of animism persist, including belief in spirits and ancestral influence. Syncretism shapes spiritual practices.
What Are Their Needs?
Greater biblical depth is essential, so faith moves beyond tradition into personal conviction. Stronger discipleship and local leadership development would help sustain vibrant churches. Improved access to education and healthcare would strengthen community well-being.
Prayer Points
Pray for deep, Scripture-rooted faith and freedom from syncretism.
Pray for trained leaders and active evangelism.
Pray for better schools, medical care, and economic stability.
Pray for the faithful translation and wide distribution of the Scriptures, evangelism resources, and discipleship materials in the Duau language.