Nambya in Zimbabwe

Introduction / History

The Nambya people live in Botswana and Zimbabwe.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Nambya people make good use of their language. It is being taught in elementary schools. There are Nambya writers’ groups and Nambya cultural festivals.

They have many tests that must be “passed” before a wedding. Most of these are tests of character. For example, the potential groom is put through tests using cold water to see if he is willing to endure hardships. There are also tests for the potential bride, many of which involve learning housekeeping skills. The Nambya people are starting to question the practice of lobola, a bride price. This practice has led many to forsake marriage and simply live with someone of the opposite sex.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Though there is a large Christian minority among the Nambya people in Botswana, they are mainly animistic. There is a higher percentage of Christian believers among them in Zimbabwe.

What Are Their Needs?

The Nambya people need to allow the teachings of the Bible to affect their daily lives. As it stands, there are many sexual practices and other matters which do not conform to God’s word.

Prayer Points

Pray for a spiritual revival among the Nambya people that will bless their families and communities both spiritually and economically.

Pray for Nambya Christian believers to make more disciples who will make even more disciples.

Pray for Nambya Christian believers to take the gospel to the unreached peoples in Southern Africa.

Text Source:   Joshua Project