The Jula of Burkina Faso primarily live along the trade routes in the southwestern part of the country. The name dyula (Jula) means “itinerant trader,” and the 2 million Jula are respected for their trading abilities. They are one of the two largest ethnic groups in the country. To be Jula is to be Muslim. Islam is a part of their identity, and it is very difficult for them to separate faith and culture. Because of this, there are very few Jula believers. Their West African Islam does, however, have more tolerance toward diversity than other Islamic communities. Many Jula hold to animistic beliefs that are thinly veiled by Islam.
“Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ.” (Colossians 4:2–3a ESV)
