Christian Missionary Work
The Christian faith in Tanzania goes back to when the Portuguese occupied the country in the early 16th century. Roman Catholic Franciscans established a mission in the coastal city of Kilwa during this time frame paving the way for Christian exposure. By the mid 19th century several missions would be opened in the country ranging from Protestant, Anglican, Lutheran, and Moravian. These particular faiths show the influence that colonization has had on the country from the Germans, British, and Portuguese.
The influence of the church has had gradual effects on the Tanzanian way of life. Their culture for example has been altered, as the naming of children will sometimes incorporate a second Christian name as well as their native name. The hospital and aid work provided by the church helps those affected by HIV/AIDS, which is a major problem in the country, almost 6% of the nation living with the disease. The shelters for abandoned children and other orphanages help provide care and comfort for those children that are affected by the loss of their parents from HIV and other causes.
Until 1934, the mission work for Tanzania was mainly an individual work, that was sometimes aided by other missions to help reach the people. The Christian Council of Tanzania was formed to help foster unity among the Christian faith within Tanzania. The council helps with HIV treatment, spreading of Christian values, raise awareness for gender and human rights, and help with dialogue with other religions. This unity among the Christian faith has helped provide peace in and unity in a turbulent climate with the presence of other religions within the country.
Islam
The Islamic influence on Tanzania goes back to the Medieval period, when Arabian traders established a foothold in Zanzibar. The Arabs were mainly focused on the slave trade and didn't establish missions such as the Christians did. The faith spread on its own throughout the country, but mainly is focused around the coastal areas. The Arabs brought with them a sophisticated economic system and helped bring trade to the interior of the country. Naming rights such as those brought with them by Christians also influenced the people of the country.
The Islamic faithful are guided by two organizations, the National Muslim Council of Tanzania, and the Supreme Muslim Council. Both of these organizations provide educational assistance, HIV and medical assistance, spreading of spiritual awareness and human rights (Against Gender based Mutilation), and political activeness. These organizations also provide guidance in this time of instability, as the tensions between the other faiths present has increased, sometimes leading to violence.
Overall the mission work/religious impact by the faiths on Tanzania has been positive and bring charitable assistance to a country greatly in need.
Resources
"Christian Council of Tanzania, The Ecuminal Organization in Tanzania." Christian Council of Tanzania. Accessed April 28, 2016. http://cct-tz.org/.
"Christian Aid Mission: Tanzania." Accessed April 28, 2016. http://www.christianaid.org/Interactive_World/countryPages/Tanzania.aspx.
Ofcansky, Thomas P. & Rodger Yeager (eds,) 1997.Historical Dictionary of Tanzania Second Edition, Scarecrow Press, Inc.: London
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