Fipa in Tanzania
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| People Name: | Fipa |
| Country: | Tanzania |
| 10/40 Window: | No |
| Population: | 423,000 |
| World Population: | 423,000 |
| Primary Language: | Fipa |
| Primary Religion: | Christianity |
| Christian Adherents: | 95.00 % |
| Evangelicals: | 15.00 % |
| Scripture: | New Testament |
| Ministry Resources: | Yes |
| Jesus Film: | No |
| Audio Recordings: | Yes |
| People Cluster: | Bantu, Central-Tanzania |
| Affinity Bloc: | Sub-Saharan Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
The Fipa (also known as Wafipa) are a Bantu-speaking ethno-linguistic group residing primarily in the Sumbawanga Rural and Nkasi districts of the Rukwa Region in southwestern Tanzania. They speak Fipa and Mambwe, and many are also fluent in Swahili. The name “Fipa” means “people of the escarpment” and was given by 19th-century traders. Historically, the Fipa lived on the Ufipa Plateau, a strategic corridor between East and Central Africa. Their society evolved from ironworking clans into a centralized monarchy, with complex political structures including hereditary chiefs, prime ministers, and queen mothers.
What Are Their Lives Like?
The Fipa live in nucleated villages on the Ufipa Plateau, with agriculture as their main livelihood. They cultivate finger millet, maize, beans, and cassava, and raise small livestock such as goats and poultry. Fishing is common near Lake Tanganyika and Lake Rukwa. Traditional crafts include pottery, basket weaving, and cotton spinning. Gender roles are distinct: men handle heavy labor and construction, while women manage domestic tasks and food production. Their society emphasizes communal values, egalitarianism, and nonviolence in child-rearing.
What Are Their Beliefs?
The Fipa are predominantly Christian, with Roman Catholicism being the major denomination. However, traditional beliefs still play a role, especially in rural areas. Their indigenous religion includes territorial spirit shrines, often associated with natural features like hills and lakes. Deities such as Mulungu (Supreme Creator) and Mawisukila (Rain and Fertility) are central to their mythology. Rituals include rainmaking ceremonies, and mythological figures like Ipyana and Nakalonga serve as moral and spiritual archetypes.
What Are Their Needs?
They need access to a complete Bible in the Fipa language. The New Testament is available, but the full Bible is not yet translated. Old Testament stories speak to the hearts of rural and pastoral people. They need deeper discipleship and spiritual renewal. Many Fipa Christians are nominal and lack strong biblical foundations.They need improved agricultural support. Soil exhaustion and limited fertile land challenge their food security.They need access to healthcare and education. Rural areas often lack basic services and infrastructure.
Prayer Points
Pray for the completion, distribution, and acceptance of a full Bible in Fipa.Pray for spiritual revival and strong discipleship among Fipa Christians.Pray for sustainable farming practices and food security.Pray for improved access to education and healthcare in rural communities.