Affinity Group: Sub-Saharan African Peoples

Affinity Bloc: Sub-Saharan African

People Cluster: Bantu, Makua-Yao

Language: Yao - (yao)

Alternate Name(s):

Primary Religion: Islam - Sunni

Country: Zimbabwe

Also found in: Malawi; Mozambique; Tanzania

Population: 63,500

Global Population: 3,290,500

Progress of the Gospel: Engaged yet Unreached

Global Status of Evangelical Christianity: Less than 2% Evangelical, No Active CP Activity

Overview: The Yao of Zimbabwe, numbering 63,500, are Engaged yet Unreached. They are part of the Bantu, Makua-Yao people cluster within the Sub-Saharan African affinity bloc. Globally, this group totals 3,290,500 in 4 countries. Their primary language is Yao. The primary religion practiced by the Yao is Sunni Islam, the largest branch of Islam. Sunni Muslims follow the teachings of the Qur'an and consider the first four caliphs to be the rightful successors of Muhammad.

Bible Translations: Available

Jesus Film: Available

Gospel Recordings: Available

Radio Broadcast: Available