 Who
are the Zerma?
Beginning in the 15th century, the Zerma-Songhai peoples
made up an empire that controlled most of central and western
Niger. Although they came to adopt Islam as their religion,
spirit worship, magic, and sorcery remain incorporated in
their beliefs and practices to this day. The French arrived
in the early 20th century, subjugating the Zerma and their
neighbors under colonial rule. In 1960, Niger gained independence.
Though the Zerma are no longer part of a powerful empire,
they remain a proud people, resistant to change.
There are almost three million Zerma across West Africa. Most
of the Zerma people live in Niger, West Africa. The majority
of these are Muslim, and have been for many centuries. Their
culture and traditions are tied closely to the practice of
Islam. Like Muslims everywhere, the Zerma hold to a set of
beliefs
|
 We’re
excited to be part of a new program called HandsOn Africa.
HandsOn Africa is a short-term mission assignment for men
and women between the ages of 18 and 29.
|
