World Of Witness - Botswana

Ministry

African-Initiated Churches (AICs) in Botswana are numerous and widespread with a variety of worship forms and practices. Over 60 percent of the population claim a connection with an AIC. Many leaders in local AICs have minimal Bible training. Bible classes throughout the country make use of materials developed by Mennonites who have worked with AICs in Botswana for almost 30 years. Mennonite Church Canada Witness partners with Mennonite Mission Network (MMN) and Africa Inter-Mennonite Mission (AIMM) Botswana to supervise Bible class programs and other mission activities. Mennonite Church Canada Witness workers also support and encourage the emerging Brethren in Christ Churches in Botswana as part of the broader ministry.

Celebrations

• Local leaders are initiating Bible classes throughout the country.
• North American young adults and other school groups have received support and supervision in short-term service assignments.
• Government initiatives have seen positive results in reducing the HIV/ AIDS infection rate.
• Education and Hope for Vulnerable Children
• Celebrating Paseka
• Teaching Starts with Learning Humility

Challenges

• It is estimated that over 30 percent of the adult population are HIV positive. This has huge consequences for both the society and the church. Funerals have become a central social activity, taking a great deal of energy from all other activities including church activities.
• Although the Botswana economy is strong, there is a high unemployment rate among younger people including many connected with AIC’s.
• A strong traditional family system is breaking down through a combination of urbanization and HIV/AIDS. An increasing number of orphaned children are no longer being cared for by the extended family.
• AICs have not traditionally had strong organized social ministries even though many people are involved in caring for friends and relatives.

Partners

• Mennonite Mission Network (MMN)
• African Inter-Mennonite Mission (AIMM)
• Inter-Church Ministries (of Botswana African-Initiated Churches– AICs)
• Botswana Christian Council

Get Involved

Bible Teaching and Theology Training

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