People
Who they are
The Malila live in the highlands of southwestern Tanzania, in the Mbeya Region. Most work in agriculture, and Ilembo is their main town, serving as a center for trade, social life, and the Malila language. Young and old use Malila in everyday life, at home, with their families, and while working in the fields. Swahili is used more often in schools and trade.
Where they live
1
Country
141K
Population
| Country | Share of the people | Population |
|---|---|---|
Tanzania Partially reached
|
100%
|
137.000 |
How they live
The Malila mainly grow corn, beans, potatoes, millet, peas, and sweet potatoes. Ilembo is the hub of their trade and social life. At home, they speak Malila. Many churches use Swahili in worship services, and women and children often find it difficult to follow the teaching in that language.
What they believe
The vast majority of the Malila follow the traditional religion, and Christians are a minority. There are churches in Ilembo, including Baptist, Moravian, and Calvary churches. In Iyunga Mapinduzi, the leader of a women’s group began conducting meetings in Malila. She says that in Swahili, perhaps 8 out of 20 understood; in Malila, everyone understands, and now they raise their hands and ask questions.
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.
Malila
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)15%
Evangelicals4%
Needs
The New Testament in Malila reached the people in print and audio in 2020, but there are still not enough copies and audio players: before a new delivery, there were only 40 players for about 70,000 people. Local residents have already learned to lead audio Bible studies through courses that also covered evangelism and personal devotions. Malila Christians need discipleship and local leaders who teach in the language families use at home.
What to pray for
Intercede for this people
Pray for the distribution of the New Testament in print and audio among Malila families.
Pray for those who have learned to lead audio Bible studies, that they may continue to teach clearly.
Pray for women and children who understand teaching better in Malila than in Swahili.
Pray for Malila churches, that they may teach the Bible in the language of the people.
Pray for families who still follow only the traditional religion, that they may come to know Jesus.
Pray for Malila
Intercede for this people alongside Christians around the world.
Open the Prayer Calendar