People
Who they are
The Twa Pygmy people, also known as the Batwa, live in Rwanda, Burundi, Uganda and the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, in the African Great Lakes region. Their history is tied to the forests, where they lived by hunting and gathering. The eviction of communities to create conservation areas changed this way of life. In Rwanda, the Twa maintain traditions of singing, dancing and music. Losing the forests also meant losing places important to their religious life.
Where they live
4
Countries
137K
World population
| Country | Share of the people | Population |
|---|---|---|
Congo - Kinshasa Partially reached
|
42.1%
|
56.000 |
Burundi Partially reached
|
30.1%
|
40.000 |
Rwanda Partially reached
|
24.8%
|
33.000 |
Uganda Partially reached
|
3%
|
4.000 |
How they live
In Rwanda, pottery is an important activity, alongside day labor and carrying loads. In Burundi, families make pots to sell at markets, but earn little for their work. Obtaining clay is also difficult: the areas it comes from are subject to environmental protection, and potters depend on permission from landowners. Irregular income leaves some families going hungry when they cannot find work.
What they believe
Traditional religions predominate among the Twa of Rwanda, Burundi and Uganda. In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, most identify as Christian. There are also Christians among the communities in the other three countries. The forests hold spiritual importance for the Batwa, with specific places respected for their connection to the existence of the community.
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.
Kinyarwanda
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)39.1%
Evangelicals6.6%
Needs
Twa communities need secure access to land and the means to support their families. In Rwanda, the Twa remain disadvantaged in education, health and land rights. In Burundi, poverty and school costs lead children to leave school early to work. Addressing these barriers requires both material resources and respect for the rights and identity of the Twa.
What to pray for
Intercede for this people
Pray for the Twa to have access to land and livelihoods after the loss of their forests.
Pray for Twa children in Burundi to stay in school without humiliation or having to drop out for lack of resources.
Pray for the study of the Scriptures in Kinyarwanda among Twa families.
Pray for Twa Christians in all four countries to grow in faith and welcome other families.
Pray for a church that the Twa of Burundi can feel is their own.
Pray for Twa Pygmy
Intercede for this people alongside Christians around the world.
Open the Prayer Calendar