Bondei in Tanzania
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| People Name: | Bondei |
| Country: | Tanzania |
| 10/40 Window: | No |
| Population: | 117,000 |
| World Population: | 117,000 |
| Primary Language: | Bondei |
| Primary Religion: | Islam |
| Christian Adherents: | 32.00 % |
| Evangelicals: | 10.00 % |
| Scripture: | New Testament |
| Ministry Resources: | Yes |
| Jesus Film: | No |
| Audio Recordings: | Yes |
| People Cluster: | Bantu, East-Coastal |
| Affinity Bloc: | Sub-Saharan Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
The Bondei people (also spelled Bodei, Swahili: Wabondei) are a Bantu ethnic group located in Muheza and Pangani Districts of the Tanga Region in northeastern Tanzania. They speak Kibondei, a Bantu language closely related to Shambaa, Zigula, and Ngulu. Historically, the name "Bondei" was given by the Kilindi dynasty after their conquest, meaning "people of the valley"—those living between the Lwengera Valley and the Indian Ocean. The Bondei were once under the rule of the Shambaa Kingdom, but resisted subjugation, notably during the Kiva revolt of 1869, which allowed them to reclaim autonomy.
What Are Their Lives Like?
The Bondei primarily engage in small-scale agriculture, cultivating maize, beans, cassava, cardamom, and bananas. They also practice fishing and livestock keeping, especially along the coast. Traditionally, they lived in homestead settlements, but government resettlement programs since the 1970s have moved many into villages to improve access to education and healthcare. Their society is patrilineal, and they maintain strong family and clan ties.
What Are Their Beliefs?
The Bondei are religiously diverse, with the majority identifying as Muslims, while others follow Christianity or African Traditional Religions. Their form of Islam often includes folk practices, blending Islamic rituals with ancestral and spirit worship. Christianity has grown through missionary efforts, but traditional beliefs remain influential, especially in rural areas.
What Are Their Needs?
While Swahili is widely spoken, many Bondei still use their native language, which lacks full Bible translation. Evangelical presence is limited, and many Bondei have not heard the gospel in a culturally relevant way.They need improved access to education and healthcare. Rural Bondei communities often lack basic services and infrastructure. They need economic development opportunities. Agriculture is vulnerable to climate change and market instability, limiting income and food security.
Prayer Points
Pray that soon Bondei Christians will take Christ’s name to their Muslim neighbors.Pray for spiritual awakening and discipleship among Bondei Muslims and animists.Pray for improved access to education, healthcare, and clean water.Pray for sustainable agricultural development and economic empowerment.