Tavara, Tawala in Papua New Guinea
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| People Name: | Tavara, Tawala |
| Country: | Papua New Guinea |
| 10/40 Window: | No |
| Population: | 41,000 |
| World Population: | 41,000 |
| Primary Language: | Tawala |
| Primary Religion: | Christianity |
| Christian Adherents: | 99.00 % |
| Evangelicals: | 16.00 % |
| Scripture: | New Testament |
| Ministry Resources: | Yes |
| Jesus Film: | Yes |
| Audio Recordings: | Yes |
| People Cluster: | New Guinea |
| Affinity Bloc: | Pacific Islanders |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
The Tawalain Tavara, also known as Tawala or Tavara, are an Austronesian people living in the Milne Bay Province of eastern Papua New Guinea, particularly along the East Cape Peninsula and nearby islands. Their history is shaped by coastal settlement, inter-village trade, and later contact with missionaries, which brought literacy and Christianity. Their language, Tawala, reflects their long maritime and village-based heritage.
What Are Their Lives Like?
Most families live in small coastal villages, working in subsistence gardening, fishing, and small-scale trade. Extended families share responsibilities for childrearing, food production, and home life. Community celebrations often include singing, dancing, feasting, and church gatherings. Common foods include sweet potatoes, taro, bananas, fish, and coconut-based dishes, reflecting both land and sea resources.
What Are Their Beliefs?
Most Tawalain Tavara identify as Christian, with strong influence from Protestant and evangelical churches, though traditional beliefs and customs still shape daily life and worldview.
What Are Their Needs?
The Tawalain Tavara need deeper biblical teaching, discipleship, and leadership training so believers can grow in maturity and effectively reach surrounding communities. Improved access to healthcare, education, and clean water would strengthen family and community well-being.
Prayer Points
Pray for spiritual growth, unity among churches, and bold witness.
Pray for healthy families, provision for daily needs, and opportunities for young people to receive education and training.
Pray for the Lord to bless them with good health, and adequate hospitals.
Pray that the Tawalain Tavara believers would wholeheartedly embrace the great commission and preach the gospel and make disciples of their own people and beyond.