Tanzania is a land with over 100 native tribes, some of the biggest refugee camps in the world, and a vast array of African wildlife. Jane Goodall studied chimpanzees, Henry Stanley found David Livingstone, and a slave market once flourished in Tanzania. Highland plateaus, semi-deserts, rain-forest like jungles, and savannah make up its environment. Christians, Muslims, Hindus and followers of many ancient religions share this diverse country. Tanzanian music and dance has become well-loved across eastern Africa.

Country Profile

Full Country Name:United Republic of Tanzania
Area: 945,090 sq km (364,879 sq mi)
Population: 31,270,820
Capital city:Dar-es-Salaam
People: 99% native African (part of over 100 tribes), 1% Asian, European and Arabic<
Language:Swahili, English, indigenous
Religion: 40% Christian, 33% Muslim, 20% indigenous beliefs
Government:Republic (multi-party state)

Money & Costs

Currency: Tanzanian shilling
Exchange Rate: US$1 = 1,028

Relative cost:
Budget Meal: US$ 2-5
Budget Room: US$ 7-10

You can live comfortably in Tanzania for as little as US$15-20 a day, but Tanzania offers a very wide variety of facilities, and there are many plusher hotels to be had for more money.

On the Move

Tanzania offers many options for travel. A train network built in colonial times still functions. Bus lines are common throughout the country, although they are not permitted to operate after dark. Mini-buses also provide short road trips. Cessna (small airplanes) can be chartered for trips within the country. In Tanzania's lakes and along the coast, ferries can also be a good means of transportation. Dhows, or coastal boats, can be a unique way to get around. For self transportation, cars can be rented. Bicycles can also be used to see much of the countryside.

Religion

Although some places in Tanzania have a very strong Christian influence, there are many Muslims in Tanzania. Many of these Muslim seem to be very receptive to the Gospel. Other areas, however, are neither Christian nor Muslim, instead worshipping some ancient deity. One of the main religions is Masai, which worships the God Engai. The priests are said to be descended from Engai's messiah, Kindong'oi.

Call to Missionaries

The hopelessness in Tanzania can be felt. People in the refugee camps have seen so much death and destruction. For many of these people, who have seen so much terror, they are much more receptive to the Gospel right now, and Christians are desperately needed to reach out to them. Please pray for the refugees and many native tribes of Tanzania, that God will send workers to minister to them.