In the village of Samako, the fertility spirit demands strict loyalty from those who seek its help, punishing any infraction.
Villagers believe that a local forest near the river is their god of fertility. Generations ago, their ancestors sought to appease this spirit and increase conception and childbearing by building a temple in the forest, where petitioners to this day present their requests. In exchange for bearing a child, women promise to make a sacrifice. Many also vow to name their child after the spirit; several Samako children bear its name.
Awa, one of the village women who remained infertile, suffered intimidation and shame from her husband Moussa—who decided to add a second wife—and his family.
To save her honor, Awa solicited help from the spirit in June 2021. She promised to name her child after him and vowed two rams and seven dishes of cooked food as sacrifices. Soon after, the hospital confirmed she was pregnant, and peace returned to the couple when she gave birth to a boy.
Because of a lack of means, Awa did not keep her promise. She also hid her agreement with the spirit from her husband. Over the next three months, Awa’s behavior and attitude sharply changed, sinking her into madness, and she left her home and abandoned her child.
Overwhelmed, Moussa became
increasingly anxious and tormented, consulting charlatans to know the source of his wife’s madness. Most revealed the same story: Awa had signed a pact with a spirit, consisting of the sacrifice of a ram and food, and if she did not keep her vows, healing was impossible. On behalf of Awa, Moussa’s family tried fulfilling her vow. Awa’s madness only worsened.
Some time afterward, she arrived at the family home with two sotramas (minibusses), intending to pick up her belongings. Moussa and his family, however, paid the drivers and sent them away, keeping her at home and supervising her activities.
One night, the same spirit appeared to Moussa in a dream, explaining his pact with Awa and how they had only partially fulfilled her sacrifices. In accordance with the terms, the family held a feast, inviting neighbors to enjoy the rams and other food offered. Tensions eased, Awa recovered, and the spirit stopped tormenting Awa for the time being.
Samako animists are held captive by their beliefs and suffer greatly. Please pray they will come to know Jesus Christ and experience His freedom and peace.
