The Nkisi or Nkonde (plural Minkisi/Nkonde) are figures that carry a spirit or magical power within themselves. They are found throughout the Congo basin and are respected and feared because their power is considered to be enormous and can be used for both good and bad ticks.

Often the substance that makes a carving a carrier of power is used in the abdominal area and sealed with glass or mirror shards. Characteristic for the Minkisi, for example with the Bakongo and Yombe, are the numerous nails with which the figures are studded.

One theory says that each nail is evidence of a contract, mediated by the medicine man, between the spirit and a person seeking help. Another theory says that the image of Saint Sebastian, once brought to the country by the colonial powers, caused Africans to hammer nails.

In any case, the beliefs of the peoples indigenous to Central Africa, together with the West African religions, are the main influence on syncretism in the African diaspora. Especially the Afro-Cuban religion of the Palo, the Afro-Brazilian religion Quimbanda and the Haitian Petro-Vodou are strongly influenced by the Banture religions.