Spotlight on Malawi

Malawi is a landlocked country in southeastern Africa, with a population of about 3 million, and an agricultural economy. The main religion is Islam, influenced by traditional African and animistic beliefs. Baptist Mission Australia has teams living and working among the Yawo people in both Malawi and Mozambique.

“The Yawo are a resilient people group with spiritual customs dating back  thousands of years closely linked to shamanism. Within Yawo culture, the material and spiritual realms are deeply integrated. Today Yawo Muslims combine Islam with their tribal religion, using traditional medicines and talismans for protection from witchcraft as well as for healing and seeking good fortune. For the Yawo, there is an understanding that what a person believes spiritually will speak into every aspect of their life.

In both Malawi and Mozambique, small but growing groups of Yawo men and women are meeting to explore God’s stories. Some are at the beginning of their journey with Jesus and others have chosen to follow Him. We praise God that local faith leaders are being equipped to lead their own people.” (Global Interaction, retrieved 7 May 2021)

Tim and Mel, and their sons Jarred and Clayton, are supported by KawanaLife. They’ve been living and serving there for several years. Tim, Mel and Clayton have recently returned to Malawi after a year on Home Assignment and Sabbatical, while Jarred has stayed in Australia to begin Uni.

God is at work amongst the Yawo people, and as the Faith Community grows and matures, they’re taking more ownership of the ministry, making this time spent away from Malawi both appropriate and intentional.

Jean-Claude and Joyce and their family also serve among the Yawo people in Malawi. You can read about them and their ministry here.