Arab in Rwanda

Introduction / History

Who is an Arab? Arabs' physical, geographical, and religious aspects vary greatly, but the ability to speak Arabic and identification with the Arabic culture are probably the two most essential elements. A century ago Omani Arabs were part of the powerful Omani trading empire, and they ventured to Burundi and Rwanda. These ancestors were very likely slave and ivory traders. Some were salt and cotton merchants. They came, they liked the place, they stayed. They intermarried. They assimilated linguistically.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Commonly the Arabs in Rwanda are merchants and businessmen. For most of the Diaspora Arabs in East Africa, there have been a greater variety of job opportunities. This has greatly aided their living conditions. However, it has also weakened their traditional family ties. There is greater freedom for women to leave the home, fewer arranged marriages, and less social pressure to conform to traditional religious practices.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The historical link between Arabs and the Islamic religion is still very strong. It was early in the seventh century that Mohammed first preached the tenets of Islam to the Arabs. His successors quickly spread the word of Allah far and wide. Wherever Arabs went, they left elements of their Arab culture, including their religion.

What Are Their Needs?

Arabs in Rwanda need the opportunity to have a relationship with the only Savior, Jesus Christ. There are fervent Rwandan believers who can reach out to them.

Prayer Points

Pray for Rwandan believers to persevere in outreach to the Arabs among them.
Pray for spiritual discernment and hunger among the Muslim Arabs in Rwanda.
Pray for Arabs to have dreams of Jesus that will lead them to the cross.
Pray for a Disciple Making Movement to flourish among Arabs in Rwanda.

Text Source:   Joshua Project