Muslim Yao in Mozambique

Muslim Yao in Mozambique

Think of our planet, Earth. Zoom in on the continent of Africa. Next, the country of Mozambique and finally, the small village of Chiconono. This is the geographic center of the Yao people, once one of the richest and most powerful in Southern Africa, thanks to a lucrative trade with the Arabs in slaves and ivory. In addition to cloth and guns, the Yao people obtained the religion of Islam from the Arabs. The "Christian" British were viewed in a negative light due to their anti-slavery stance and their readiness to impose their own culture and religion upon their colonial subjects. The Yao people chose to reject the colonialist's Christianity and adopt Islam, integrating it with their own traditions and beliefs.

Ministry Obstacles

The Yao have hardened themselves against Christianity to the point of resisting even the many efforts of their neighbors. Folk religions are difficult to penetrate, due to the heavy traditional and cultural ties.

Outreach Ideas

The Yao have maintained their own traditional language. Workers who would spend the time to learn this language might be received. Signs and wonders would also be highly impactful for a people with a spiritual mindset.

Scripture Focus

"Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and extol and honor the King of heaven, for all his works are right and his ways are just; and those who walk in pride he is able to humble."  Daniel 4:37

Scripture Prayer

Pray for leaders of this people group to repent before the Lord Almighty like this king.

Prayer Focus

Pray that Yao hearts would be opened to the gospel and that they would discover the power of the true God. Pray for loving, patient and respectful workers to show the love of God, leading them into a vast Disciple Making Movement in Mozambique.