People
Who they are
The Zinza live along the remote southwestern shores and on the islands of Lake Victoria in northwestern Tanzania, mainly in the Mwanza and Kagera regions. They live alongside the Sukuma, Haya, Kerewe and Jita. They use Swahili to communicate with other peoples, but they have their own language, Echizinza, and want to learn to read and write in it.
Many are fishers, while others tend small plots. There are Zinza in churches that use Swahili and Sukuma.
Where they live
1
Country
466K
Population
| Country | Share of the people | Population |
|---|---|---|
Tanzania Partially reached
|
100%
|
453.000 |
How they live
Many Zinza fish, including at night, while others grow millet, beans and plantains, as well as tropical fruits. They also raise cattle, sheep and goats. Some families make and sell banana beer, a traditional drink among the people.
What they believe
Most Zinza follow traditional religion, and about a quarter are Christians. Views about Jesus vary: some see him as the Son of God, and others as a prophet, teacher or good man. There is also a small Muslim population.
Some practices seek to appease spirits associated with illness and other misfortunes through offerings to the dead. In churches with Zinza members, teaching takes place in Swahili and Sukuma rather than their own language.
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.
Zinza
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)25%
Evangelicals3%
Needs
The people need literacy instruction in Echizinza, reading materials and healthcare. The New Testament in Zinza was published in 2024, but the complete Bible is not yet available, and many Zinza still cannot read. They need Christians who will teach the Word in their language and people who will help them read and listen to the Scriptures.
What to pray for
Intercede for this people
Pray for the safety of Zinza fishers who work at night on Lake Victoria.
Pray for literacy instruction in Echizinza and for reading materials that families can access.
Pray for Zinza Christians, that they will understand the Scriptures in their own language and grow in faith.
Pray for churches with Zinza members and for leaders who encourage the use of the Bible in Echizinza.
Pray for healthcare in Zinza communities along the shores and on the islands of the lake.
Pray for Zinza
Intercede for this people alongside Christians around the world.
Open the Prayer Calendar