KOREKORE

Originally the land currently occupied by the Korekore belonged to the Tavara people. When the Korekore came to this area about 100 years ago they started dominating all the other people groups and eventually settled in the north and northwestern parts of Zimbabwe in the towns and districts of Muzarabani, Guruwe, and Hurungwe. Only 10% of the entire population lives in urban areas. Being largely a farming society they grow crops such as maize, sorghum, and cotton. Herding cattle and goats is seen as a last resort of generating income.

The Korekore, although having a low self esteem and a poor self image, is a very friendly and hospitable people group. A typical family will include the mother, sons, and grandsons with the father being the head of the family. Tradition plays an important part in Korekore culture and is passed on from generation to generation. Fridays are considered sacred as memorials are held in honour of the ancestors; therefore, no work is done on Fridays. Full moon is also celebrated through dance. Even though the majority claims to be Christian, they mix animistic beliefs with the Christian faith. Cults are also fast growing among this people."

• Country: Zimbabwe
• Population (Year): 11.4 million (1995)
• Major Religion: Christian
• Percent Christian: 61.7%
• Percent Evangelical: 14.3%
• Openness to missionaries: Open"

1. HAVE THEY HEARD THE GOSPEL?

60% Believe Jesus is the Son of God
20% Have never heard His Name

2. HAVE THEY RESPONDED TO THE GOSPEL?

Believers to population: 1 believer to every 2 persons (total believers: 180 000)(60%)

3. DO THEY HAVE A CHURCH?

Churches to population: 1 church for every 50 000 persons (total churches: 6)

4. DOES THIS PEOPLE HAVE THE WORD OF GOD TRANSLATED INTO THEIR MOTHER TONGUE?

Yes.

5. ANY HINDRANCES TO SCRIPTURE DISTRIBUTION?

Animistic traditions play an important role in their culture.

6. WHAT OTHER FORMS OF GOSPEL PRESENTATIONS ARE AVAILABLE?

Literature: Bible portions
Films: Jesus film
Radio: Trans World Radio broadcasts 10 hours per week in Shona

7. ARE THEY RECEPTIVE TO CHANGE AND TO CHRISTIANITY?

Yes, droughts are causing people to seek for the truth.

8. DO THEY REQUIRE OUTSIDE (CROSS-CULTURAL) ASSISTANCE?

Yes, there is a great need for gospel literature."