Han Chinese, Mandarin in Tanzania

Introduction / History

The Han Chinese are the largest ethnic group in the world. Although the vast majority live in mainland China, many have immigrated to other countries, and today they reside in nearly every nation of the world including Tanzania.

Most Han Chinese speak one of the many Chinese dialects, which include Mandarin, Cantonese, Hokkien or Min Bei. The speakers of one Chinese dialect cannot understand the speakers of another. The writing system is the same so they can communicate on paper but not orally.

The Han Chinese fled to other countries after the Mongol invasion in 1276. Many other upheavals and conflicts followed, and the Chinese continued to settle in different nations, especially in Southeast Asia. Wherever they went, the Chinese settled almost exclusively in urban areas and became involved in business and commerce. Today, they are very influential in the economies of many of these nations, including Tanzania.

One of the countries where Mandarin Chinese people are settling is Tanzania. There were three waves of Chinese immigrants coming to Tanzania starting in 1891.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The latest wave of Mandarin Chinese to enter Tanzania started in the 1990s and it continues today. Most came hoping to enter the construction, textiles, or food industries. Some wound up working in the medical field. Some did not have medical training, so they resorted to traditional Chinese medicine. Today, there are more qualified Chinese medical professionals in Tanzania. Others are working at or owning restaurants or shops.

There will probably be more Mandarin Chinese migrating to Tanzania in the future. China’s economic influence over Tanzania (and much of Africa for that matter) is increasing.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Most Mandarin Chinese in Tanzania are secularized, but some have a strong faith in the Lord who can take the gospel to the unreached peoples of Tanzania.

What Are Their Needs?

Secularized thinking and a non-stop work schedule make the Mandarin Chinese unable to deal with their spiritual needs. There is a great opportunity for Mandarin Chinese Christ-followers to take Christ to the many unreached people groups in East Africa.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Lord to use vibrant Mandarin Chinese Christ followers to disciple the unreached people groups of East Africa.
Pray for Chinese Christian believers to fill the bowls of incense with prayer for Africa.
Pray for the Mandarin Chinese to have the spiritual hunger to seek and find Jesus Christ.

Text Source:   Joshua Project