Angaite in Paraguay

People Name:	Angaite
Country:	Paraguay
10/40 Window:	No
Population:	4,100
World Population:	4,100
Primary Language:	Angaite
Primary Religion:	Ethnic Religions
Christian Adherents:	15.00 %
Evangelicals:	3.00 %
Scripture:	Translation Needed
Online Audio NT:	No
Jesus Film:	No
Audio Recordings:	Yes
People Cluster:	Guarani
Affinity Bloc:	Latin-Caribbean Americans
Progress Level:

Introduction / History

Angaite is a language spoken by a tribe by the same name in Paraguay’s Gran Chaco. There are large groups of this ethnic group located in San Carlos, on the Paraguay River, a little south of Puerto Pinasco. There are Angaité in the area of Puerto Casado and in the different communities on the land known as Riacho Mosquito, north of Puerto Casado. There are also angaité in Santo Domingo, a community located 17 km north of Teniente Montania (Department of Boquerón); in the area of Diez Leguas, in the Department of Presidente Hayes and in Casanillo, in La Patria and in numerous estancias (farms) in the area. Most Angaite also speak Guarani, a more prominent indigenous language in Paraguay.

Traditionally the Angaite people were nomadic food gatherers and hunters. Their population was decimated during the Gran Chaco War in the 1930s. Soon after, their land was being encroached upon by outsiders from Bolivia and Paraguay.

What Are Their Lives Like?

With no other option, the Angaite people have switched to a farming economy. They currently live on the ranches, separated from the other Paraguayan mestizo laborers, who treat them with contempt and almost never allow them to draw water from the ranch well, so that it does not become infected by the indigenous presence. The Indians must drink water from the lagoon or from another spring in the area. The women on the ranches find work as domestic servants in the foremen's houses, cleaning and washing clothes. Sometimes they are also employed as cooks.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Among its celebrations is the waika kehiteiyoma or bell festival, in which men, women, youth and elders participate. The ceremony includes the traditional circle dance that is accompanied by a musical ensemble made up of drums and maracas. Traditional games are played, and stories are told about the customs and myths of the ethnic group, among other activities. Another of their festivities is the women's initiation ritual called naivekama.

What Are Their Needs?

The Angaite people need a sustainable way to earn a living. They cannot afford to live in the past; they need to learn valuable job skills to prepare them for the future.

Prayer Points

Pray that believers share the gospel with those who do not believe.
Pray that believers stand firm and strong in Christ.
Pray for the local Angaité churches and their growth towards maturity.
Pray for young believers may be salt and light in their community.