Introduction / History The Mogoum live in south central Chad in the Guera prefecture, in the Mongo, Bitkine and Melfi subprefectures. They are 500 meters above sea level, and their climate is hot and dry.
The Mogum area is far away from the headquarters of the canton and subprefectures where there are dispensaries and hospitals. There is virtually no transportation. Good water is hardly available. Intestinal and other infections (the leading cause of death for this people group) are due largely to lack of sanitation and clean water.
They have good relations with their neighbours of Bolgo, Saba, Bidiyo, Kenga, Mahoua, and Oubi. The village chiefs are subservient to the canton chiefs (sultans), and there are no clan or caste systems. The family structure includes extended family. The chiefs and their elders are in authority, and they make appeals to the sultan. Ramadan, and Eid Al-Ahda are the religious celebrations observed. Recreation includes socializing, listening to the radio, and evening dances.
Huts are made of mud bricks and have straw roofs. There is no electricity. Their clothing is mostly traditional Muslim, long robes. In daily life more affordable (and practical) clothing is worn, and rags are worn for fieldwork. The youth help with farming, and girls also help with housework and childcare. They are agriculturalists, hunters, and gatherers. The Arabs sell them milk and meat. Although one-third of the Chadians are said to be Christian believers, the Mogoum are virtually all Muslim. Their commitment and identification with Islam makes them resistant to change of religious preference.