Chagga in Kenya

Introduction / History

For hundreds of years, the Chaggas fought among each other and with nearby tribes. They fought over who would be forced to give tribute to who, etc. Eventually, their homeland was divided between two European colonizers: Germany (Tanzania) and the U.K. (Kenya). Europeans forced them to make peace, Christianize, and begin growing coffee as a cash crop. They were forced to work for the Europeans, who gave large payments to tribal chiefs to keep their people under control.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Chaggas highly value having children. They believe that if you have no children, your essence dies when you die. Children are an extension of a person. Some children are considered “unlucky.” Those considered unlucky include those conceived soon after the death of another child and those who are twins. They are given chores as soon as they can walk. An elderly woman performs the kisusa rite to drive out the unruliness of a child. She does this for both boys and girls. She sings songs that tell of high morals and teach them how to live an upright life. She spends time observing their behavior to ensure they are living well. When she’s satisfied with their behavior, she calls their friends and family members together for a purification rite which involves praying to their ancestors.

Greetings are important to the Chaggas. There are different greetings depending on the time of day and the status of the two people. Couples must not show affection publicly; that is considered inappropriate. Men and women separate during social events. During celebrations, they separate by age group. One can visit a friend after normal farming work hours, even during meals, at which time they must join the meal.

Their infrastructure is good by African standards. The infant mortality rate is low, partly because they have access to local medical facilities.

Surprisingly, bananas are their staple food, and they combine it with a grain to make beer. They also grow cassava, corn, millet, and beans.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Though they are usually Lutheran or Catholic, the Chaggas also have their own traditional religion.

What Are Their Needs?

The standard of living is diminishing. Schools and medical clinics are becoming dilapidated. As their population increases, young Chaggas must move to cities and begin careers, often in small businesses.

Prayer Points

Pray for a laser-focused dedication to the King of kings among the Chaggas of Kenya and Tanzania.
Pray for the Holy Spirit to move powerfully in Chagga churches and families, giving them a greater desire to follow Christ and spread the gospel.
Pray for the Lord to bless them spiritually and physically.
Pray for them to give thanks to the Lord for what they have.

Text Source:   Joshua Project