Chokwe in Angola

Introduction / History

The Chokwe people speak the Chokwe language, a Bantu language belonging to the Niger-Congo family. It is recognized as a national language in Angola and serves as a lingua franca in the eastern regions of the country.
Historically, the Chokwe originated from the Lunda Empire and established their own kingdom in the 19th century. They were known for their wealth derived from the ivory and rubber trade. However, colonialism and disease led to the fragmentation of their power.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Chokwe primarily inhabit the woodland savanna regions of northeastern Angola, near rivers and marshlands. Their villages are typically compact, with square huts or circular grass houses arranged around a central meetinghouse.
Their economy is based on agriculture, with staple crops including cassava, peanuts, yams, millet, beans, and corn. In the southern regions, they also keep cattle.
Social structure is matrilineal, with descent reckoned through the female line. Young married couples often live with the husband's family. Only chiefs and wealthy men can afford more than one wife.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Chokwe are predominantly Christian. Christianity among the Chokwe is often practiced alongside traditional beliefs. They continue to observe spirit rituals from pre-Christian times and maintain elaborate rites-of-passage ceremonies, particularly those marking the entry into adulthood for both men and women.

What Are Their Needs?

While the Chokwe people have access to a complete Bible in their language, ongoing translation efforts are necessary to produce additional Christian literature and resources in Chokwe. In terms of education, there is a pressing need for resources and infrastructure that support literacy in the Chokwe language, alongside bilingual education programs incorporating both Portuguese and Chokwe. Access to healthcare services remains limited in many Chokwe communities, underscoring the need to improve healthcare facilities and train medical personnel to effectively address both communicable and non-communicable diseases. Economically, many Chokwe communities depend on subsistence agriculture, creating a demand for agricultural development programs that offer training, resources, and market access to enhance livelihoods. Additionally, preserving and promoting Chokwe cultural heritage—including traditional crafts, music, and ceremonies—is crucial in the face of modernization and external influences that threaten their cultural identity.

Prayer Points

Please pray for the continued translation and dissemination of Christian literature in the Chokwe language, so that it may reach all Chokwe speakers. Pray for the development of educational programs that support literacy in Chokwe and provide quality education for the youth. Pray for improved healthcare access in Chokwe communities. Pray for economic development initiatives that empower Chokwe communities to improve their livelihoods. Finally, pray that the Chokwe believers would embrace the Great Commission and would faithfully spread the gospel across their lands and make disciples for God's glory.

Text Source:   Joshua Project