Swazi in United States
Photo Source:
Anonymous
|
Send Joshua Project a map of this people group.
|
| People Name: | Swazi |
| Country: | United States |
| 10/40 Window: | No |
| Population: | 600 |
| World Population: | 2,760,400 |
| Primary Language: | Swati |
| Primary Religion: | Christianity |
| Christian Adherents: | 80.00 % |
| Evangelicals: | 18.00 % |
| Scripture: | Complete Bible |
| Ministry Resources: | Yes |
| Jesus Film: | Yes |
| Audio Recordings: | Yes |
| People Cluster: | Bantu, Nguni |
| Affinity Bloc: | Sub-Saharan Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
|
Introduction / History
Most Swazis live in Eswatini, formerly called Swaziland. They also live in three other southern African countries: South Africa, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe. A small number are in the United States. The Swati language unifies them.
Their ancestors were among the Bantu peoples who migrated from Central Africa. The Swazis were first recognized as a separate ethnic group in 1750. They were once sea traders who traded ivory and other expensive goods. Swazis were powerful enough that even Shaka Zulu did not attack them. Even the British were reluctant to attack them in the 1800s, a time when both British and Boor (Dutch) settlers were encroaching on traditional Swazi lands. Eventually, the Europeans prevailed until the end of the colonial era after World War II.
In the 1990s, Swazis had a high population growth rate. It was killed by widespread death from AIDS. By 2007, Swazis had an education crisis because so many children were orphaned by AIDS deaths. A small number of Swazis have made their way to the United States.
What Are Their Lives Like?
In the United States, immigrants from Africa often come together for social events. Sometimes African Americans join them. They enjoy traditional African foods, dance, and celebrations. Commonly, African immigrants to the U.S. have a high income and a good education.
What Are Their Beliefs?
The majority of Swazis are Christian, no matter what country they live in. They have a strong Evangelical presence, and they can be Christ’s ambassadors in gospel starved parts of Africa.
What Are Their Needs?
Swazis need the desire to follow Christ with all their hearts and minds. Sexual immorality is a problem despite what the Bible says. They have a complete Bible and many gospel materials for evangelism and discipleship. All they need is to put the teachings of the Bible ahead of their traditional sex practices.
Prayer Points
Pray for a powerful revival in every Swazi family and church, drawing them into a close relationship with Jesus.
Pray for heartfelt repentance regarding sexual impurity and a willingness to obey the Lord.
Pray that soon Swazi workers will share their victorious lives with others, winning and equipping others for discipleship.