Kacchi in Malawi

Introduction / History

During the days of the British Empire, many peoples from South Asia went to other parts of the empire, sometimes as common laborers, and other times as small-time businessmen. That included the Kachchi peoples from Gujarat. The Kachchis usually came as merchants, who had Omanis as their chief rivals for markets in East Africa.

Although living conditions in the African countries vary, the Kachchis who have emigrated are usually from the higher, wealthier families communities and have maintained several aspects of their own culture. At home they speak their own Kacchi language.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Many of them work as masons and merchants. Others own small, family run shops. They seldom make time for spiritual matters.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Kacchi people can be Hindu or Muslim. In Malawi, most are Muslim. There is a sense among most Muslims that Allah is too distant to approach for their daily needs, so they look to spiritual forces when they have health needs, etc. Christ followers can pray for them in the name of Jesus, and they can be healed, and know the savior is powerful and loving. There are thousands of African Christians who can pray for their needs.

What Are Their Needs?

All who do not make Jesus Christ lord in their lives have a spiritual void that needs to be filled. The Kachchis have this unfulfilled need. There is a large Christian community in Tanzania that can go to them.

Prayer Points

Pray for loving ambassadors of Christ to go to the Kachchi and be there for them as friends and neighbors, all the while pointing the way to the empty grave.
Pray for a Disciple Making Movement among the Kachchis in Malawi.

Text Source:   Joshua Project