Tutsi in Rwanda
Photo Source:
Seeds of Hope - Flickr
Creative Commons
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| People Name: | Tutsi |
| Country: | Rwanda |
| 10/40 Window: | No |
| Population: | 1,468,000 |
| World Population: | 4,847,000 |
| Primary Language: | Kinyarwanda |
| Primary Religion: | Christianity |
| Christian Adherents: | 95.00 % |
| Evangelicals: | 20.00 % |
| Scripture: | Complete Bible |
| Ministry Resources: | Yes |
| Jesus Film: | Yes |
| Audio Recordings: | Yes |
| People Cluster: | Bantu, Central-Lakes |
| Affinity Bloc: | Sub-Saharan Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
The Tutsi, also historically referenced as Watusi, Watutsi, or Abatutsi, reside primarily in Burundi and Rwanda, the Great Lakes Region of East Africa. A smaller number live in Tanzania, Uganda, and the DRC. Genetically, the Tutsis are among the tallest tribesmen on the entire African continent; some Tutsi men are seven feet tall. They speak Kinyarwanda, though those who live in Burundi speak Rundi.
The Tutsis began settling in the land now recognized as Rwanda and Burundi during the fourteenth century. At one time, Tutsis were mighty warriors. They became aristocrats in Rwanda, distinguishing themselves as rulers of the land and society's elite. The 1994 Rwandan Genocide changed the social order. Motivated by jealousy and past oppression from the Tutsis, Hutu militias in Rwanda slaughtered a significant number of Tutsis, reducing both the population and the influence of the Tutsis.
What Are Their Lives Like?
The Tutsis have traditionally worked and continue to work primarily as pastoralists. Their sound agricultural techniques helped them prosper. Cattle work is male-dominated, and Tutsi women are expected not to work with cattle.
What Are Their Beliefs?
Christianity, both Catholic and Protestant, remains the most popular religion among the Tutsis. They have plenty of biblical materials to help them grow in their faith. Tutsis can become a powerful mission force in East Africa.
What Are Their Needs?
Some Tutsis are still recovering after the devastating 1994 genocide. Some Tutsis are skeptical of Christianity because certain Hutu church leaders endorsed the Rwandan Genocide in 1994. This gross misuse of Christianity became a wedge between the Tutsis
Prayer Points
Pray for complete emotional and spiritual healing from trauma.
Pray for physical and spiritual peace in the Tutsi homeland.
Pray for Tutsis to hear and respond to the truth of Jesus’ life, sacrifice, and the Holy Spirit’s redeeming work.
Pray for Tutsi Church leadership to expand and focus on discipling people to make more disciples.