Introduction / History

Wanji people live in southwest Tanzania in the southern mountains of Iringa Region between the Bena, Sangu and Kinga people. Some live on the Usangu wetlands near the village of Mahongale.One of the early gospel messengers was Sam John Nierendra. One of the people who became a Christian was Samwaili from the mountain village of Msalimwani. The women of this village still wear the skins of animals to ward off the biting cold of mountain mornings. They worship spirits of their ancestors and fear the leopard that stalks at night.Samwaili attended the Tanzania Bible School where he studied hard. After graduating, he traveled the Usangu plains, sharing the gospel with people and establishing other churches. (2001 report by David Caskey who lived in Wanji area) In time some of the Bible was provided for this group, 1979-1985. This language needs to be reassessed to see why the translation work stopped and if more translation work is needed for this isolated group. Some appear to have moved down out of the mountains on to the Usangu plains. Their interaction with other larger nearby groups will need to be checked to see if they can now use any of these groups' Scriptures. Lutherans, Anglicans, and Presbyterians work in this general area, as well as perhaps some RC from Njombe.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Some Wanjis may attend the secondary (high school) at Makambako, a trading center in the area. There is a corn (maize) grinding mill, a waddle and eucalyptus tree project, and a farm for maize (corn) at this former Lutheran school. Also, a local brick factory/kiln.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Most adhere to traditional beliefs, but there is also a large Christian majority.

What Are Their Needs?

There is a lot of mission work among the Wanjis. They need the spiritual desire to take what God has given them, use it, and share it with the lost in other parts of Africa.

Prayer Items

Pray for hundreds to be raised up with an unwavering faith in Christ, one that will not be shaken, no matter what comes their way.Pray for God to bring about his purpose for the Wanjis.Pray for Christians to have love, joy, peace, and patience as they tell others about the King of kings.Pray for a mighty Holy Spirit revival to permeate their families and churches, drawing them into greater love for God and for their neighbors.

Scripture Prayers for the Wanji in Tanzania.

References

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