Introduction / History

Bembe or Wabembe are Bantu people, occupying the whole coast of Lake Tanganika of the Kigoma Region. All of them are descendants of those who came from the Democratic Republic of the Congo a long time ago. Some of them changed the tribe name and are now called Wamanyema, others mixed with the Waha tribe (the majority ethnic group of the Kigoma region). They have their own language by the same name, Bemba.

They now live in Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Democratic Republic of Congo, and even Canada.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Most Bembas who migrate to Canada have a good education. West nations usually allow Africans to migrate there who have professional skills. In their spare time, Bembas, as well as the rest of the African diaspora, have their own cultural associations.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Their ancestors believe in a deity they see as the living God - the Yehova. Ancestors used to give offerings through prayers which they call "Iyela or Lo 'elo" when famine or illness come into the village. They also strongly believed in the spirit of the dead which they call "Oci". Oci are considered as the messenger from ancestors which come to visit the surviving children and grandchildren. Oci comes in the form of a spirit talking to people through a human being. For the Oci to come every time, a small round house must be built in the form of Msonge- which serves the purpose of invoking the ancestor.

The Bembas are usually Christian, but they blend Christian doctrines with animistic ones. Some of their denominations stay closer to the Word of God than others.

What Are Their Needs?

Bembas in Canada who do not have good English or French skills are at a grave disadvantage in finding employment.

Prayer Items

Pray for Bemba churches and church leaders to learn and embrace the teachings of Christ and turn away from destructive teachings.
Pray for Bemba Christians to make disciples who will make even more disciples.
Pray for the Holy Spirit to move powerfully in Bemba families and churches.

Scripture Prayers for the Bemba in Canada.

References

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bemba_people
https://iloveafrica.com/here-is-what-you-should-know-about-bemba-in-zambia/
https://www.101lasttribes.com/tribes/bemba.html