People
Who they are
The Kwaya live in the Mara region of northern Tanzania, in the Musoma area, along a strip of land on the eastern shore of Lake Victoria between Mara Bay and the Nariobo River. They are a Bantu-speaking people, also called Abakwaya. Their name comes from mukwaya, the fish eagle: according to tradition, an eagle saved a child from starvation by bringing food during a time of scarcity.
In times of war or danger, the Kwaya used to retreat to the hills. Today they live in lower valleys.
Where they live
1
Country
237K
Population
| Country | Share of the people | Population |
|---|---|---|
Tanzania Partially reached
|
100%
|
230.000 |
How they live
According to a 1974 study, the Kwaya were mainly farmers, with fishing and animal husbandry as secondary activities, and hunting in the past. Their staple food is ugali, a thick maize porridge, and fish from the lake plays an important role in their diet. Each family lives in a compound of two to five houses, with separate granaries. Men tend the cattle, and women grow food crops. Land passes from father to son.
What they believe
Most Kwaya follow traditional religions, and there are many Christians. In traditional belief, spirits are everywhere and often intend harm. To keep them out, the Kwaya hang amulets outside their homes and carry them on their bodies. Diviners combat witchcraft. Christianity has changed marriage in particular: Christian marriages are now much more common.
The Bible in this people's language
A people only truly understands the gospel when they hear it in the language of their heart. See how far the translation has come.
Kwaya
New Testament complete
- Translation started Done
- Portions Done
- New Testament Current stage
- 4 Whole Bible Still ahead
Audio recordings Not available
Jesus Film Available
Translation data: Joshua Project.
Gospel progress among the unreached
Christians (all traditions)45%
Evangelicals9%
Needs
The Kwaya New Testament was completed in 2023, and the full Bible is not yet available. An ethnographic survey found that the Kwaya spent up to an hour a day protecting themselves from witchcraft. Many families therefore need clear Bible teaching that shows them that Jesus is greater than these fears.
What to pray for
Intercede for this people
Pray for the Kwaya New Testament to be used in families and churches.
Pray for Kwaya Christians to come to know the Bible better and grow in their faith in Jesus.
Pray for Kwaya who live in fear of spirits and witchcraft to find protection and peace in Jesus.
Pray for Kwaya churches to teach the Bible clearly to families.
Pray for Kwaya
Intercede for this people alongside Christians around the world.
Open the Prayer Calendar