Hutu, Rwandese in South Africa

Introduction / History

The Rundi language has defined some Hutus, but some of them speak Kinyarwanda. They are called Rwandese Hutus, even though they live in 15 countries, not just Rwanda. One of these countries is South Africa.

They are closely related to the Tutsis, a tribe that, historically speaking, has had more power. The two groups have had serious violent conflicts in both Burundi and Rwanda.

Rwanda achieved independence from Belgium in 1962.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Rwandese Hutus in South Africa are usually farmers, and Tutsis are pastoralists. In addition to conflict over political power, there is conflict over land usage. All over the world, conflicts arise between farmers who settle on fenced-in land and pastoralists who are cut off from grazing lands due to the fences.

These two ethnic groups are also dominant in neighboring Burundi. Whatever affects one, affects the other as well. When there is ethnic conflict, refugees pour over the border. Ironically, there is much intermarriage between the Hutus and Tutsis.

Rwandese Hutus enjoy drumming and dancing; they are for enjoyment, but also as a way to reinforce their identity as a people. They have folk dancing groups called Indore, that compete with one another. They enjoy social gatherings that involve storytelling, singing, and telling jokes.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Rwandese Hutus are highly Christianized, and God can use them as his ambassadors.

What Are Their Needs?

Rwandese Hutus need to forgive so that jealousies and revenge issues no longer stunt their spiritual growth.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Holy Spirit to move like fire in Rwandese Hutu churches and families, spurring them on to love and good works.
Pray for the Lord to use them as Christ’s ambassadors to those without a gospel witness in Sudan.
Pray for the Lord to purify their churches with revival fire.
Pray for the Lord to show himself powerful and good by providing abundantly in the coming years.

Text Source:   Joshua Project