The People

Moba — Togo, Percent Christian: 30%, Percent Evangelical: 6%

The Moba are an agricultural people who live in northern Togo. Togo produces an abundance of fruit, vegetables and other agricultural products, such as coffee and cotton. Traditional religion and animism play a strong role in the culture. Basic needs include the need for a reliable supply of water.

The Catholic Church and the Assemblies of God began working with the Moba in the 1930’s, and other groups joined in the 1970’s. The Ministry of Jesus denomination began after a missionary was led to go there and drill wells in various villages. Village chiefs then invited him back to preach the gospel, and village churches developed as the result of this work. Animism has been giving way to the gospel as the result of the work of missionaries who are teaching the Bible and discipling young leaders.

The Painting

Oil on canvas, 18 x 24 inches

Mother and Child depicts a young woman and her daughter in the brightly colored costumes favored throughout West Africa.