Deaf in Zimbabwe
Photo Source:
Kate Nelson/AusAID - Wikimedia
Creative Commons
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| People Name: | Deaf |
| Country: | Zimbabwe |
| 10/40 Window: | No |
| Population: | 165,000 |
| World Population: | 50,265,850 |
| Primary Language: | Zimbabwe Sign Language |
| Primary Religion: | Christianity |
| Christian Adherents: | 77.99 % |
| Evangelicals: | 0.00 % |
| Scripture: | Translation Started |
| Ministry Resources: | No |
| Jesus Film: | No |
| Audio Recordings: | No |
| People Cluster: | Deaf |
| Affinity Bloc: | Deaf |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
Taken as a whole, worldwide Deaf communities would comprise one of the largest unreached groups in the world. Unlike most people groups, Deaf people can be found in every country and often blend in with the broader community around them. In Zimbabwe, a survey shows that the hearing impaired constitute 12% of the population of people with disabilities.
What Are Their Lives Like?
Deaf people have unique languages and cultures, and they value them so much that if given the chance to become a member of the hearing community, some might even refuse. Since most Deaf people are born to hearing parents, and very few of those parents learn to sign, many Deaf people are isolated from their families and the broader community. Instead of acquiring language from their parents, many acquire language from other Deaf in the community or from a Deaf school.
What Are Their Beliefs?
Zimbabwe is largely a Christianized nation, so there is some gospel input for the Deaf. However, church services are conducted to reach the hearing community, and the Deaf don’t understand much of what they see.
What Are Their Needs?
Oppression by the hearing community is also commonplace. Decisions are made for the Deaf without Deaf input, laws are established forbidding Deaf people to marry, and education may be provided only in the spoken language without interpreting. All of these
Prayer Points
Pray for access to the Bible, particularly for those who face challenges due to limited education and language barriers.
Pray for sign language Bible translation, making it accessible to Deaf communities around the world.
Pray for Deaf missionaries and leaders who can effectively reach and disciple their fellow Deaf people and for financial and spiritual support for organizations and ministries working to reach Deaf communities, particularly in regions with limited resources.