by J.C Bernard
Sent by his church in India, Yazid was one the first members of the Faithful Witness team to arrive in Kayes, Mali in 2019. Now, after five years of adapting to the West African context and learning three languages, he has become the Faithful Witness team leader. He shepherds a diverse team of South Asians and West Africans developing vital ministry among the Hassaniya people, a community that otherwise would have no access to the gospel. Yazid’s pioneer leadership in Mali has become too valuable to lose.
Kayes, located in western Mali near the borders of Mauritania and Senegal, is a region characterized by its harsh living conditions and remote location. Home to four major people groups—the Hassaniya, Soninke, Bambara, and Fulani—the area has historically been difficult to access, with travel once limited to unpaved roads. The primary religion in Kayes is folk Islam, a blend of traditional animism and Islam. Less than one percent of the 2.8 million people in the region identify as Christian. Among the Hassaniya people specifically, the number of known believers can be counted on one hand.
Yazid’s work in Kayes is both challenging and impactful. His responsibilities include leading various ministry projects and organizing outreach efforts to the 20 surrounding villages, which face significant obstacles such as a lack of reliable electricity and clean water. Each week, the Faithful Witness addresses tangible needs while building long-term relationships with the community.
The team’s unity in diversity is a testament to the gospel. The team lives among the people, learns their languages—French, Bambara, and Hassaniya—meets practical needs, and builds deep relationships. Their goal is to make the name of Jesus known and to foster conversations about the gospel, praying that these interactions will lead to individuals finding freedom in Christ.
One of Yazid’s significant initiatives is his work in children’s and sports ministries. Recognizing the importance of engaging with youth, he and his team have developed programs that combine recreational activities with spiritual teachings. These programs aim to promote physical health and spiritual growth, reflecting Yazid’s integrated approach to ministry.
His faith has been a cornerstone of his work in Mali, guiding him through various challenges and triumphs. Smiling at me through the screen, Yazid reflects,
It is all about trusting God’s plan. Whatever it is that I am going through, I have always come to the conclusion that whatever it is, this is God’s plan.
The cultural mix of Islam and ancestor worship in Kayes presents a significant obstacle to sharing the gospel. The fear of angering unseen spirit ancestors can deter the Hassaniya people from exploring Christianity. Yazid seeks to understand and respect the cultural nuances of the Malian people and share the gospel to bring hope to this unreached community.
The impactful work of Yazid and this Faithful Witness team relies on the support of generous partners like you. Your financial contributions are essential for sustaining and expanding their projects and sharing the gospel. Your gift will directly impact their ministry’s success and play a crucial role in ensuring that the gospel continues to flourish in this challenging region.
In the heart of Mali, Yazid’s presence is a testament to the power of the Lord’s direction and provision. His journey from India to Mali, marked by unwavering trust in God’s plan, continues to inspire and bring change to a region in desperate need of hope.
To find out how you might join this multi-skilled team, hit the connect button to let us know of your interest.
Pray:
- Ask God to work among the Hassaniya, Soninke, Bambara, and Fulani people groups. Pray for ears and eyes to see and understand God’s revelation of Himself.
- Pray for the safe arrival of a new worker this month, asking God’s peace in the goodbyes, travel, and early adjustments to life in Mali.
- Ask for God’s protection, and good health for the team as the rainy season brings a lot of malaria.
- Pray for sustained financial support for this team and that new monthly partners would allow them to stay in Kayes and continue to do ministry in a hard place.
- Ask for encouragement and God’s provision for those on Home Assignment as they fulfil teaching and preaching engagements and raise prayer and financial support.
Send a financial gift to encourage the Faithful Witness team in Mali.
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