The Jita people, also known as Wajita, are an ethnic group primarily located in the Musoma District of the Mara Region in northern Tanzania, along the southeastern shore of Lake Victoria. They speak Kijita (also called Suguti), a Bantu language that shares linguistic similarities with neighboring groups such as the Haya, Nyambo, Kerebe, and Zinza. Although the Jita are not originally of Bantu origin, they adopted the Bantu language upon settling in the region.
Historically, the Jita trace their ancestry to Ethiopia, migrating through Sudan and Uganda before arriving in Tanganyika (modern-day Tanzania). The name "Jita" is believed to be a colonial mispronunciation of "Masita," the name of a prominent mountain in their homeland. German colonial authorities referred to the people as "Majita," a name that eventually gained widespread acceptance. Jitas are organized into clans such as Rusori, Batimba, and Bagamba, each with distinct cultural traits and oral traditions. Some clans, like the Rusori, claim descent from Nubian ancestors and identify with ancient groups such as the Bachwezi of Uganda.
Jitas live in rural communities near Lake Victoria, where fishing, farming, and livestock keeping are central to daily life. They cultivate crops such as maize, cassava, millet, and beans, and engage in trade with neighboring ethnic groups. Traditionally, some clans avoided eating fish or chicken due to cultural taboos, though these restrictions have relaxed over time.
Social organization is clan-based, with elders serving as advisors and mediators. Jitas value hospitality, communal living, and respect for nature. Music, dance, and storytelling are integral to their cultural expression, especially during ceremonies and festivals. While modernization has reached parts of the region, many Jita still rely on traditional medicine and farming techniques.
The Jita traditionally worshipped a supreme deity named Nymuwanga, accompanied by lesser gods such as Mugasa (god of the sea) and Karungu (god of the wild). These deities were believed to guide fishermen, hunters, and farmers in their daily activities. Worship often took place at sacred sites, including Mount Masita, which holds spiritual significance.
Christianity was introduced to the Jita in the early 20th century by German Adventist missionaries. The first converts were baptized in 1911, and churches were established soon after. Today, many Jita identify as Christians, though traditional beliefs still influence spiritual practices. Syncretism is common, and some communities continue to honor ancestral spirits alongside Christian worship.
The Jita people face a range of spiritual and practical challenges, including limited access to discipleship and biblical teaching in their native Jita language, the ongoing need for a complete Bible translation to foster spiritual growth and outreach, and a scarcity of Christian media resources such as radio broadcasts and films in Jita. Additionally, rural communities grapple with inadequate access to education, healthcare, and clean water, while efforts in evangelism must be culturally sensitive—honoring Jita traditions and clearly conveying the gospel message.
With hearts united in faith, let us pray for the completion and widespread distribution of an accurate and full Bible in the Jita language.
May the Lord raise up passionate Jita pastors and evangelists, equipped to disciple believers and plant vibrant churches rooted in truth and love.
We ask for a deep spiritual awakening among those whose faith has grown nominal or is mingled with traditional beliefs, that they may experience the fullness of Christ.
Let us intercede for the flourishing of Christian media—radio, film, and audio Scripture—in Jita, to reach hearts far and wide.
May God's grace bring holistic transformation to Jita communities through improved education, accessible healthcare, and clean water, nurturing both body and spirit.
Pray that believing Jita would evangelize their people lost in ethnic religions and Islam, leading them to the only Savior, Jesus Christ.
Scripture Prayers for the Jita in Tanzania.
Wikipedia: Jita People
ESDA: Adventists and Jita Culture
CultureSherpa: Jita Cultural Profile
| Profile Source: Joshua Project |
