Introduction / History

Swahili can refer to both an ethnic group and to Swahili-speaking people. The name Swahili literally means "coast," and is the name traditionally given to several people groups that share a common culture, language (Swahili), and religion (Islam) living along the eastern coast of Africa. Though they are called "Swahili" by others, they prefer to be named according to their local settlements. Originally Swahilis were mainly composed of Bantu-speaking people, but because of their coastal dwellings and trade with people of the Indian Ocean and Persian Gulf, they have been influenced by, and in some cases, have intermarried with Arabic peoples. Today, the Swahili are mostly scattered along eastern Africa and the Persian Gulf, from Saudi Arabia to Zambia. A smaller number live in the UAE.

What Are Their Lives Like?

For about 2,000 years, the backbone of the Swahili economy has been commerce. They worked as cross-national merchants trading spices, slaves, ivory, gold, and grain. Today, international commerce is still important to the Swahili but to a lesser degree. Many upper-class Swahili now manage small businesses, do clerical work, and teach school. Since the Swahili are predominantly Muslim, Islamic practices play a large role in their daily activities.

Islam is deeply ingrained in the worldview of the Swahili people. It will be difficult for them to accept other foundational answers to spiritual questions, such as salvation by Jesus Christ, not by human effort.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Nearly all of the Swahili profess to be Muslims; however, many of their traditional pre-Islamic beliefs and practices still exist. For example, they believe in many spirits—both good and evil. They also believe in the supernatural power of witches and sorcerers. The Swahili often believe folk explanations for natural occurrences.

What Are Their Needs?

The Swahili need someone to commit their lives to taking Christ to them no matter what the cost.

Prayer Points

Pray for spiritual discernment and hunger among the Swahili in the UAE. Pray for the Lord to thrust out workers who are filled with the love of the Holy Spirit. Pray this will be the decade when there is a massive Disciple Making Movement among the Swahili people in the Arab World.

Scripture Prayers for the Swahili in United Arab Emirates.

References

http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/2020-05/22/c_139076492.htm