Deaf in Tanzania
Photo Source:
Anonymous
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| People Name: | Deaf |
| Country: | Tanzania |
| 10/40 Window: | No |
| Population: | 293,000 |
| World Population: | 27,576,680 |
| Primary Language: | Tanzanian Sign Language |
| Primary Religion: | Unknown |
| Christian Adherents: | 6.00 % |
| Evangelicals: | 3.00 % |
| Scripture: | Portions |
| Ministry Resources: | No |
| Jesus Film: | No |
| Audio Recordings: | No |
| People Cluster: | Deaf |
| Affinity Bloc: | Deaf |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
Taken as a whole, worldwide Deaf communities would comprise one of the largest unreached groups in the world. Unlike most people groups, Deaf people can be found in every country and often blend in with the broader community around them. That includes Tanzania.
What Are Their Lives Like?
Deaf people have unique languages and cultures, and they value them. Since most Deaf people are born to hearing parents, and very few of those parents learn to sign, many Deaf people are isolated from their families and the broader community. Instead of acquiring language from their parents, many acquire language from other Deaf in the community or from a Deaf school.
What Are Their Beliefs?
Less than 1/2 of 1% are Christians. Hearing Sunday School teachers and pastors, like hearing parents, are not able to communicate truth or their beliefs to Deaf children. Many Deaf say they learn a lot of the "rules of life" by watching the action on TV or in movies. The Deaf value "information" above almost everything. Tanzanians have portions (stories) of a signed language Bible.PRGRPHThe first portions of Tanzania Sign Language Bible on DVD were dedicated on November 19, 2011. One story was chosen and shown on a projector screen. The Deaf didn't want to take time to eat but wanted to see story after story. TBC, the national television station, showed a clip of the dedication on TV for two days. Tanzania Sign Language Bible Society (TSLBS) also have materials and continue to give the Deaf the good news.
What Are Their Needs?
In adults, hearing impairment and deaf ness often make it difficult to obtain, perform, and keep employment. Both children and adults may suffer from social stigmatization and isolation as a result of hearing impairment. Many hearing people tend to think
Prayer Points
Pray for sign language Bible translation, making it accessible to Deaf communities around the world.
Pray for Deaf missionaries and leaders who can effectively reach and disciple their fellow Deaf people and for financial and spiritual support for organizations and ministries working to reach Deaf communities, particularly in regions with limited resources like Tanzania.