People
Who they are
The Mijikenda Chonyi live on the coast of Kenya, in Kilifi County, northeast of Mombasa. They are one of nine coastal Bantu peoples known as the Mijikenda, a name that literally means the nine groups of houses. Their language is Chichonyi-Chidzihana-Chikauma. Farming and fishing are among their means of livelihood. The New Testament in Chonyi was dedicated on August 17, 2024, and the translation team went on to work on the Old Testament.
Where they live
1
Country
345K
Population
| Country | Share of the people | Population |
|---|---|---|
Kenya Significantly reached
|
100%
|
338.000 |
How they live
The Chonyi work on small farms and sell coconuts and cashews, their main source of cash income. They also grow maize, millet and peas, and some fish. Traditional houses are made of mud with thatched roofs, and iron and bricks are now also used to make them sturdier. Research conducted in 2013 and 2014 described the Chonyi community studied as a farming community, with small businesses and work related to beach tourism. In that study, low agricultural productivity led residents to seek jobs nearby to earn more income.
What they believe
Christianity has the largest following among the Chonyi, but there is also a large Muslim community and followers of traditional religions, which remain strong even among some Christians. The Kaya Chonyi forest has religious significance: the research conducted in 2013 and 2014 described its use by elders for prayers and sacrifices, and the forest has been preserved largely because of the community’s beliefs.
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.
Chichonyi-Chidzihana-Chikauma
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)50%
Evangelicals12%
Needs
The Chonyi need access to schooling and good medical care. In the church, the translation of the Old Testament depends on translators and community reviewers continuing the work. Many Chonyi Christians remain attached to traditional practices, and the New Testament in their own language is a resource for discipleship.
What to pray for
Intercede for this people
Pray for wisdom for the translators and reviewers of the Old Testament in Chonyi.
Pray for the New Testament in Chonyi to be used in churches and in discipling Christians.
Pray for the Chonyi to have access to education and medical care.
Pray for the provision of Chonyi families who depend on small farms.
Pray for Chonyi Christians to grow in maturity among a people where traditional religion remains strong.
Pray for Mijikenda Chonyi
Intercede for this people alongside Christians around the world.
Open the Prayer Calendar