Swahili in Zambia

The name Swahili literally means "coast," and is the name given to several people groups that share a common culture (Uswahili), language (Kiswahili) and religion (Islam). Many upper-class Swahili manage small businesses, do clerical work and teach in schools. Those living in cities sometimes own plantations that provide both their income and their food supply. Most lower-class Swahili are farmers.

Ministry Obstacles

The Swahili in Zambia identify with Islam; however, many of their traditional pre-Islamic beliefs and practices still exist. The Swahili have folk explanations for natural occurrences. By African standards, the Swahili are economically prosperous and this prosperity can render God "unnecessary" in their minds.

Outreach Ideas

Through interest in the culture of the workers who go, access to televisions and increased economic and social involvement, Christian workers can meet and engage with Swahili-speaking people.

Scripture Focus

"For I am ready to fall, and my pain is ever before me. I confess my iniquity; I am sorry for my sin."  Psalm 38:17-18

Scripture Prayer

Pray that this people group finds peace and salvation when they confess their sins to the Lord.

Prayer Focus

Pray for the Lord to give the relatively prosperous Swahili people the humility to come as beggars to the only One who can save them from sin and spiritual death. Pray for the Lord to send long-term ambassadors to the Swahili people in Zambia. Ask God to raise up Christian businessmen who will boldly share Christ with the Swahili. Pray for a softening of their traditional Muslim culture so that the gospel may be freely preached. Ask the Lord to raise up a network of strong local churches among the Swahili.