Benamanga in Tanzania
Send Joshua Project a photo
of this people group. |
Send Joshua Project a map of this people group.
|
| People Name: | Benamanga |
| Country: | Tanzania |
| 10/40 Window: | No |
| Population: | 69,000 |
| World Population: | 69,000 |
| Primary Language: | Benamanga |
| Primary Religion: | Christianity |
| Christian Adherents: | 50.00 % |
| Evangelicals: | 3.00 % |
| Scripture: | Translation Started |
| Ministry Resources: | No |
| Jesus Film: | No |
| Audio Recordings: | No |
| People Cluster: | Bantu, Central-South |
| Affinity Bloc: | Sub-Saharan Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
|
Introduction / History
The Benamanga people are an indigenous ethnic group located in the Morogoro region of Tanzania, specifically in the Kilombero and Ulanga districts. Their language, Benamanga, is part of the Niger-Congo language family and is considered stable and indigenous. It is primarily spoken within the community and is probably not taught in schools. The Benamanga are part of the broader Central-South Bantu people cluster of languages and cultures.
What Are Their Lives Like?
The Benamanga live in rural areas of eastern Tanzania, where subsistence farming and small-scale agriculture are common. Their communities are typically organized around extended families, and traditional practices still play a significant role in daily life. Access to modern infrastructure such as healthcare, education, and clean water may be limited, especially in remote villages.
What Are Their Beliefs?
About half of the Benamangas are Christian, but traditional religion is strong, and Islam is making inroads. This mix reflects both historical missionary influence and the broader religious landscape of Tanzania.
What Are Their Needs?
They need access to clean water and sanitation, especially in rural villages where waterborne diseases are common. They need improved healthcare services, including maternal and child health support. Educational opportunities are needed so they can advance in the 21st century economy. They need economic development initiatives, such as agricultural training and microfinance, to improve livelihoods.
Prayer Points
Pray for the spiritual awakening of the Benamanga, that hearts would be open to taking the name of Christ to their Muslim neighbors.Pray for access to Scripture and the JESUS Film in the Benamanga language and for translation efforts to be accurate.Pray for God’s healing and provision, especially in areas lacking basic services like healthcare and clean water.