Introduction / History

The Silowanas speak a related language to Luyana, the language of the Luyana people. There is a 15-20 % mutual comprehension between the Luyana and Silowana languages. The languages are different enough that Silowanas left a JESUS Film showing in Luyana because they couldn't understand it.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Daily life is communal, with shared spaces like the Insaka, a central meeting place in villages used for meals, education, and decision-making. Silowana communities primarily engage in subsistence agriculture, growing crops for their own consumption. However, there are efforts to diversify income sources due to environmental challenges like drought. Some families harvest non-timber forest products such as honey and devil's claw to supplement their income.

A notable initiative is the Savings and Internal Lending Communities (SILCs), which empower locals—especially women—to save money and access small loans. For example, Mwangala Matongo, a member of Kalobolewa Village Action Group, used SILC loans to fund her daughter's nursing education, demonstrating how these financial tools are transforming livelihoods.

Family structures in Zambia vary, but in the Western Province (where the Silowana live), patrilineal systems are common. This means:

Inheritance and family authority pass through the father's line. After marriage, couples typically live near the husband's family (patrilocal residence). Extended families are central, and fostering is widespread—children may be raised by aunts, uncles, or grandparents, especially in cases of hardship.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Ethnic religion is the faith of over two-thirds of the Silowanas. However, most of the others are Christian. They also have a strong Evangelical minority.

What Are Their Needs?

Silowanas need the JESUS Film, radio broadcasts, and discipleship materials in their own language.

Prayer Items

Pray for the Lord to raise up among them those who will address these physical needs.
Pray for the Silowana family leaders to have the spiritual hunger it takes to embrace Jesus Christ, no matter the social cost.
Pray for the translation of strategic evangelistic and discipleship materials into the Silowana language.
Pray that soon there will be Silowana speakers disciping others.
Pray for revival in their churches that will lead them to love and good works.

Scripture Prayers for the Silowana in Zambia.