People
Who they are
The Kwere live in eastern Tanzania, in the Pwani region, mainly in Bagamoyo District, and also in the Morogoro region. They are also called Wakwere and Ngh’wele. They speak Kikwere and use Swahili, the most widely spoken language on the Tanzanian coast. The Kwere trace descent through the maternal line and live among other coastal peoples, such as the Zaramo.
Where they live
1
Country
339K
Population
| Country | Share of the people | Population |
|---|---|---|
Tanzania Partially reached
|
100%
|
330.000 |
How they live
Kwere families trace descent through the mother: kinship passes from mothers to their children. Like the Zaramo, the Kwere practice mwali rites, ceremonies marking the transition to adulthood, but use different names and sacred objects from those of their neighbors. The Kwere are also known for having many traditional healers, called waganga.
What they believe
Among the Kwere are followers of traditional religions, Christians, and Muslims. People turn to the waganga, the traditional healers, for healing rituals and spiritual consultations. The mwali rites marking the transition to adulthood are also part of the people’s life. There are Christians among the Kwere, and the Christian faith coexists with these customs in families.
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.
Kwere
New Testament complete
- Translation started Done
- Portions Done
- New Testament Current stage
- 4 Whole Bible Still ahead
Audio recordings Available
Jesus Film Available
Translation data: Joshua Project.
Gospel progress among the unreached
Christians (all traditions)22%
Evangelicals8%
Needs
Many Kwere follow traditional practices, and those who turn to the waganga for healing need to know about God’s care for the sick. Kwere Christians need teaching and leaders from their own community to explain the gospel in the context of these practices, in Kikwere as well as in Swahili, which families use.
What to pray for
Intercede for this people
Pray for the sick among the Kwere to know God’s care.
Pray for the training of Kwere leaders who will teach the gospel in Kikwere.
Pray for the study of the Scriptures in Kikwere and Swahili among Kwere families.
Pray for clarity and steadfastness in the faith of Kwere Christians as they encounter traditional customs.
Pray for the churches in Bagamoyo to care for Kwere families.
Pray for Kwere
Intercede for this people alongside Christians around the world.
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