Vinza in Tanzania

Introduction / History

The ancestors of the Vinza people of western Tanzania migrated to their current location about 2,000 years BC. They originated in central Africa, possibly Cameroon. Their migration was probably a slow process given they added cultural and linguistic aspects of other cultures through this time. They are also sometimes called Mabinza or Binza.
They settled in Uvinza where they began salt mining operations. In the 1800s the had an established chief. Soon Muslim Arab missionaries came to them, and most converted to Islam.
In the late 1800s until 1918, Tanzania was controlled by German colonialists. Entire Vinza communities were killed when they rebelled against the Germans. The Germans did, however, provide infrastructure changes such as a railroad. After WWI, Tanzania was transferred to the British as a colonial holding. Tanzania gained her independence in 1961, and to this day it’s an independent nation.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Many Vinza people still work in salt mines. Others are farmers and herders.

What Are Their Beliefs?

They had Arab Muslim missionaries converting them to Islam followed by Christian missionaries. Today the Vinza people are about half Muslim and half Christian.

What Are Their Needs?

The Vinza people need to understand the grace of God, and how it conflicts with works righteousness. They need to be totally dependent on Jesus Christ.

Prayer Points

Pray for Vinza disciples to make more disciples who will make even more disciples.
Pray for the Vinza people to learn to be dependent on Jesus Christ.
Pray for spiritual hunger that will get them beyond acceptance of a religious system for their spiritual needs.

Text Source:   Joshua Project