People
Who they are
The Nyamwanga live in southwestern Tanzania, near the border with Zambia, and in northeastern Zambia. They are also called Mwanga or Namwanga. In Zambia, the language is spoken mainly in the districts of Nakonde and Isoka, in Muchinga Province.
Personal names preserve family history: they can express hope, requests and comfort, or recall what was happening in the family and on the day the child was born. Men’s surnames begin with Si and women’s with Na. Any older relative may name the child.
Where they live
2
Countries
517K
World population
| Country | Share of the people | Population |
|---|---|---|
Tanzania Significantly reached
|
56.8%
|
285.000 |
Zambia Partially reached
|
43.2%
|
217.000 |
How they live
The Nyamwanga grow millet, peanuts, beans and corn. They also raise cattle, sheep, goats and poultry. Cattle are a store of wealth and are part of marriage agreements. At mealtimes, nshima, a thick cornmeal dough, accompanies greens cooked with beans.
What they believe
Most Nyamwanga are Christians, with Catholic and Protestant communities. Many still honor their ancestors and observe rituals connected to nature, and it is common to blend these practices with the Christian faith. A smaller number follow only traditional religion.
In 2025, evangelical churches in Zambia reported doing evangelism and providing ongoing guidance to Christians. Local pastors developed a strategy to start churches in underserved areas and cooperate in training leaders at Bible schools. Traditional religion and teachings that promise wealth continue to pose challenges to teaching faith in Jesus.
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.
Nyamwanga
Complete Bible
- Translation started Done
- Portions Done
- New Testament Done
- Whole Bible Current stage
Audio recordings Available
Jesus Film Available
Translation data: Joshua Project.
Gospel progress among the unreached
Christians (all traditions)76.4%
Evangelicals8.1%
Needs
Nyamwanga churches need well-trained leaders who live out what they teach, and biblical teaching that helps Christians understand the Word and distinguish trust in Jesus from promises of wealth. Those who identify as Christians without knowing the Bible well need guidance. Underserved areas need trained people to care for new churches.
What to pray for
Intercede for this people
Pray for food and livelihoods for Nyamwanga families who grow millet, corn, peanuts and beans.
Pray for the study of the Scriptures in Nyamwanga in communities in Tanzania and Zambia.
Pray for Nyamwanga pastors in Zambia who cooperate in providing biblical training for leaders.
Pray for Nyamwanga Christians to recognize teachings that promise wealth as a result of faith.
Pray for the work of Nyamwanga churches in areas that remain underserved.
Pray for Nyamwanga
Intercede for this people alongside Christians around the world.
Open the Prayer Calendar