NATEMPO

Natempo forefathers fled from Shanga in Cabo Delgado nearly 500 years ago because of a tribal war with Chief Runtum. They settled in an area where many elephants were found; hence the source of their tribal name. Living in three villages, on the coast of the Nampula province to the west of the Sangange peninsula, they are dependant on fishing as their source of income. Planting is done on a small and limited scale. Fish are exchanged for rice, peanuts, and vegetables.

Huts are made of clay and have grass roofs. Frequently, alternative building materials such as clay bricks, stones, and palm leaves may also be used. The Natempo is a polygamous society. As there are no hospitals or clinics in the area, the Natempo consult traditional healers. However, this people group would like to have the services of either a clinic or a hospital. It is not certain how or when the Natempo became an Islamic people group; however, they have been Muslims since their arrival in the present area nearly 500 years ago."

• Country: Mozambique
• Population (Year): 17.9 million (1995)
• Major Religion: Christianity
• Percent Christian: 42%
• Percent Evangelical: 8.9%
• Openness to missionaries: Open"

1. HAVE THEY HEARD THE GOSPEL?

Who is Jesus Christ to them?

0.1% Believe Jesus is the Son of God
99% Believe Jesus is a Prophet, Teacher, Good Man, but not God's Son

2. HAVE THEY RESPONDED TO THE GOSPEL?

Believers to population: 1 believer to every 1 000 persons (total believers: 5)(0.1%)

3. DO THEY HAVE A CHURCH?

Churches to population: 1 church for every 5 000 persons (total churches: 0)

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

No.

5. ANY HINDRANCES TO SCRIPTURE DISTRIBUTION?

Literacy is low. Only a very few can read and write Portuguese. Political distinction could also be a barrier.

6. WHAT OTHER FORMS OF GOSPEL PRESENTATIONS ARE AVAILABLE?

Recordings: ?
Radio: ?
Literature: ?
Video: ?
Films: ?

7. ARE THEY RECEPTIVE TO CHANGE AND TO CHRISTIANITY?

Yes, this group seems interested in the message of the gospel.

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

Yes, there is only one known protestant Christian."