NDAU

The Ndau is a Shona people group. Living in the central part of Mozambique, a key city in this area is Beira. Primarily an agricultural society, some goats and chickens are also kept. Bananas are also a favourite of the Ndau. Cattle play an important part in social life as it determines one's wealth. Bride prices are also paid in cattle. Shrimps are quite important in the Ndau's daily diet and therefore fishing is done a an extensive scale as well.

It is the job of the men to fish while both men and women do the agricultural work. Boys tend the cattle. A substantial bride price, paid in cattle, is paid to the father of the wife although it is actually earmarked for the wife's brother. Polygamy prevails and is preferred. An average of 2-3 wives per husband is quite common. Huts consists of wattle-and-daub walls with thatches grass roofs extending on to a verandah. Settlements are subdivided into districts with sub-chiefs being in the authoritive positions. Serving under these chiefs are village headmen. The highest position of authority in the Ndau culture is the chief. All sub-chiefs are accountable to him. When a ruler falls ill or loses a tooth he commits suicide. Succession is patrilineal."

• 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? 24% Believe Jesus is the Son of God

2. HAVE THEY RESPONDED TO THE GOSPEL?

Believers to population: 1 believer to every 4 persons (total believers - 26 160)(24%)

3. DO THEY HAVE A CHURCH?

Churches to population: 1 church for every 109 000 persons (total churches - 0)

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

Yes, the Bible has bee available since 1957 and various other potions are also in print.

5. ANY HINDRANCES TO SCRIPTURE DISTRIBUTION?

No.

6. WHAT OTHER FORMS OF GOSPEL PRESENTATIONS ARE AVAILABLE?

Literature: No
Radio: No
Recordings: No

7. ARE THEY RECEPTIVE TO CHANGE AND TO CHRISTIANITY?

It seems that the Ndau are opening up to the gospel.

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

Church planting efforts are needed."