Introduction / History

The Han Chinese are the largest ethnic group in the world. Although the vast majority live in mainland China, many have immigrated to other countries, and today they reside in nearly every nation of the world including Zimbabwe.

Most Han Chinese speak one of the many Chinese dialects, which include Mandarin, Cantonese, Hokkien or Min Bei. The speakers of one Chinese dialect cannot understand the speakers of another. The writing system is the same so they can communicate on paper but not orally.

The Han Chinese fled to other countries after the Mongol invasion in 1276. Many other upheavals and conflicts followed, and the Chinese continued to settle in different nations, especially in Southeast Asia. Wherever they went, the Chinese settled almost exclusively in urban areas and became involved in business and commerce. Today, they are very influential in the economies of many of these nations, including Zimbabwe. China is the leading country for foreign investments in Zimbabwe.

What Are Their Lives Like?

There is a small population of Mandarin Chinese in Zimbabwe. Most are working at or owning restaurants or shops. Very few have entered into politics, entertainment and sports.

There will probably be more Mandarin Chinese migrating to Zimbabwe in the future. China’s economic influence over Zimbabwe (and much of Africa for that matter) is increasing.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Most Mandarin Chinese in Zimbabwe are secularized, but some have a strong faith in the Lord. These people can take the gospel to the unreached peoples of Zimbabwe.

What Are Their Needs?

Secularized thinking and a non-stop work schedule make the Mandarin Chinese unable to deal with their spiritual needs. There is a great opportunity for Mandarin Chinese Christ-followers to take Christ to the many unreached people groups in East Africa.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Lord to use vibrant Mandarin Chinese Christ followers to disciple the unreached people groups of East Africa.
Pray for Chinese Christian believers to fill the bowls of incense with prayer for Africa.
Pray for the Mandarin Chinese to have the spiritual hunger to seek and find Jesus Christ.

Scripture Prayers for the Han Chinese, Mandarin in Zimbabwe.

References

https://people-groups.asiaharvest.org/China/chinaPeoples/H/HanChinese-Mandarin-OC.pdf
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chinese_people_in_Zimbabwe