Tswa in South Africa
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| People Name: | Tswa |
| Country: | South Africa |
| 10/40 Window: | No |
| Population: | 27,000 |
| World Population: | 1,414,300 |
| Primary Language: | Tswa |
| Primary Religion: | Christianity |
| Christian Adherents: | 75.00 % |
| Evangelicals: | 11.00 % |
| Scripture: | Complete Bible |
| Ministry Resources: | Yes |
| Jesus Film: | Yes |
| Audio Recordings: | Yes |
| People Cluster: | Bantu, Central-Southeast |
| Affinity Bloc: | Sub-Saharan Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
The Hlengwes are a Tsonga subgroup. They speak Tswa. Their history dates back to the Nyaka kingdom, which began in the 1300s. They were part of hundreds of years of kingdoms defined by warfare and conquest. The Gaza kingdom eventually conquered them.
Hlengwe society was divided into three sections led by the ruling class, the Chauke. That clan still leads the Hlengwes.
The Hlengwes live mostly in Mozambique, though some are in South Africa and Zimbabwe.
What Are Their Lives Like?
The Hlengwes are traders. Many produce marketable goods: pottery and woven goods. Some grow crops and keep chickens and livestock.
What Are Their Beliefs?
Most Tsongas are Christian, and they associate their creator god, Leza, with the God of the Bible. Leza was unapproachable, but they knew they could pray to their Heavenly Father.PRGRPHMizimos are the spirits of dead ancestors. Everyone becomes a mizimo after they die. They hold ceremonies to honor those who recently died. Tsonga men and women make offerings to ancestral spirits on behalf of their families.PRGRPHThey also believe in invading spirits and ghosts, both of which they associate with demons. Spirit mediums discover the will of the spirits. They believe Christian religious leaders can control the power of sorcerers. Rainmakers also have power, and they seek their help in times of drought. Rainmaking ceremonies involve singing and dancing rituals.
What Are Their Needs?
Unless they have medical clinics, the Tsongas rely on traditional medicine. There are not enough medical clinics for their needs.
Prayer Points
Pray for the Holy Spirit to move powerfully in Hlengwe families and churches, drawing them closer to the King of kings.
Pray for many to be thrust out as workers to those who lack a gospel witness.
Pray for God's people to work with them to develop new trade partners.