The Kahe people are an ethnic and linguistic group native to the Kilimanjaro Region of Tanzania, particularly southeast of Moshi. They speak the Kahe language (Kikahe), which belongs to the Chaga–Taita subgroup of Northeast Bantu languages within the larger Niger–Congo family. Kikahe is closely related to other Chaga languages but remains distinct, with three recognized dialects: Kimwangaria, Msengoni, and Kichangareni.
Historically, the Kahe have lived in the fertile lowlands of Kilimanjaro, maintaining agricultural traditions and clan-based social structures. Their language has been documented in academic lexicons and linguistic studies, but it remains underrepresented in national education and media. The Kahe are part of the broader Bantu, Central-East people cluster and are only found in Tanzania.
The Kahe live in rural communities where farming is the primary livelihood. They cultivate crops such as maize, bananas, beans, and cassava, benefiting from the rich volcanic soils of the Kilimanjaro region. Livestock such as goats and chickens are also raised for food and trade.
Social life is organized around extended families and clans, with elders playing a central role in decision-making and cultural preservation. Traditional music, dance, and storytelling are integral to Kahe identity, especially during ceremonies and seasonal festivals. While some Kahe have access to education and healthcare, many live in underserved areas with limited infrastructure.
The Kahe are predominantly Christian, with Roman Catholicism being the most widely practiced denomination. However, evangelical Christianity has a minimal presence, and many Kahe Christians blend traditional beliefs with church teachings. Indigenous spiritual practices, including reverence for ancestors and nature spirits, continue to influence daily life.
Despite identifying as Christians, many Kahe lack access to Scripture in their native language. There are currently no known Bible translations, JESUS Film versions, gospel recordings, or radio broadcasts available in Kikahe. This limits spiritual growth and understanding of biblical teachings.
The Kahe people face a range of spiritual and practical challenges, including the absence of a complete Bible translation in their language, which limits access to Scripture and discipleship; a lack of Christian media resources such as radio broadcasts, films, and audio recordings in Kikahe; minimal evangelical outreach and a shortage of trained Christian leaders within their communities. They need culturally sensitive evangelism to reach those who integrate Christianity with traditional beliefs. Their rural living conditions restrict access to education, healthcare, and clean water.
Pray that the saved Kahe people would take the Great Commission to heart, preaching the Gospel and making disciples in their area, nation, continent, and world.
Let us lift our hearts in prayer for the Kahe people, asking God to bless the translation and wide distribution of his word in the Kahe language, that it may reach every heart and home.
May the Holy Spirit raise up passionate Kahe pastors and evangelists, equipped to disciple many and plant vibrant churches rooted in truth and love.
We pray for a deep spiritual awakening among nominal Christians and those blending faiths, that they may encounter the fullness of Christ.
Pray that God would bring holistic transformation to Kahe communities through access to quality education, healthcare, and clean water, nurturing both body and soul in his grace.
Pray that true believers would be shining lights of the gospel amongst the darkness and confusion of ethnic religions.
Scripture Prayers for the Kahe in Tanzania.
Kahe language – Wikipedia
PeopleGroups.org – Kahe
| Profile Source: Joshua Project |
