The Makhuwa Nahara of Mozambique
Scripture: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He has anointed Me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent Me to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.” Pray the Nahara would hear this good news and believe.
Population: 323,000
Location: Northern coastal Mozambique
History: Arab influence a century ago
Culture: The Nahara are a subgroup of the Makhuwa, which is the largest ethnic group in Mozambique comprising 40% of the population. They are fishermen. Modern education is not valued and illiteracy is very high.
Religion: Folk Islam and ancestor worship
Latest Prayer Updates:
“Ottharuwa” of the Heart
Makhuwa Nahara of Mozambique: For several weeks now, radio programs have focused on the obstacles that hinder our deep connection with God. They’ve addressed the core criticisms of Islam directed at Christians. Surprisingly, almost all our Muslim listeners agreed that their taboos of praying in churches and consuming pork are outward, which, in reality, don’t create more or less intimacy. Many listeners asked, “So, what truly creates intimacy?” The team answered by quoting the cry of the prodigal, simple yet profound: “Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you.” In Nahara, they call this the “ottharuwa” of the heart. It means the “removing” of one’s heart. The heart’s truest cry is for intimacy with God. Let us pray that this message tonight finds a receptive audience.
Getting the WORD out
Makhuwa Nahara of Mozambique: Pray for the continued work of making God’s Word available in the local language. Many are showing a deep hunger to hear Scripture, and teams are working to provide clear and accurate audio resources. One of the most recent translation efforts is currently being reviewed. Pray for wisdom and perseverance in this work, and that the Word of God would spread throughout Nahara communities and bring many to faith in Christ.
