Wandering the vast deserts and savannahs of West and Central Africa, the unreached Fulani is the largest nomadic tribe in the world. "Converted" through Jihad in the 13th century, they are known as missionaries of Sunni Islam.

Most are nominal Muslims, but the wealthiest and most influential are also the most radical, making them a powerful force because of their sheer numbers.

Most sources list the population as 17 million. However, during a meeting to pray for and strategize to reach the Fulani, I met with a group of Christian Fulani leaders and scholars who believe the number is 70 million.

There are only a few believers among this strongly resistant tribe. Christian Aid is in contact with Fulani converts in many countries who are reaching their people through several strategies.

Because Fulani society is very structured and closed to outsiders, mission work is highly dangerous. Persecution and death are always imminent threats for believers. Indigenous Fulani missionaries have the best access to the tribe and well understand the risks.

Many of these missionaries join the nomadic life of the targeted group and others place themselves in strategic stopping places where Fulani wanderers trade and pick up needed supplies, taking every opportunity to present Christ. Some work among Fulani who have settled in towns and cities, despite their danger to Christians.

Many bloody tribal clashes have resulted from the Fulani belief that they can graze their cattle wherever they desire. One tribesman, Ardo, was watching his beloved cows decimate the crops of a farmer whose land he happened to cross. Expecting a violent fight, he was shocked when the man was warm, loving and forgiving to him.

The farmer happened to be a Nigerian missionary with Missionary Crusaders Ministries, and led Ardo and his entire family to Christ.

Ardo’s tribal elders commanded him to recant his faith, and when he refused, he was falsely accused of stealing and imprisoned for three years. During that time, Ardo and his wife and children were tortured and threatened. In an attempt to force his denial of Christ, three of his children were poisoned and killed. Yet despite the ordeal, Ardo continued to stand faithfully for the Lord.

"You have done this to break me," Ardo said. "But it has made me stronger because I am standing for the Truth: the Lord Jesus."

Ardo has since been released. He evangelizes moving groups of nomads and has a discipleship center where converts receive shelter while they are trained, until they mature in their faith and realize their specific calling. His wife ministers to Fulani women and hopes to open a small shop to attract them as they replenish their supplies.

Much prayer and financial help is needed for indigenous Fulani mission work throughout Africa. Here is how you can help:

• $1,500 will buy a plot of land on which to build a church, center of discipleship or other station of Christian refuge.
• $5,000 will construct a building on the purchased plot of land.
• $500 will provide discipleship and missionary training for one missionary