Kigoma, Tanzania

Sitting on the eastern shore of Lake Tanganyika, Kigoma, the largest town in northwestern Tanzania, is the regional capital and the location for government offices of the region.

Kigoma is also steeped in the history of the colonization of East Africa.  Ujiji, a small town adjacent to Kigoma is where Stanley met Dr. Livingstone and the famous phrase, “Dr. Livingstone I presume” was uttered.
While in Kigoma, we have the opportunity of visiting the museum in Ujiji telling the story.











We can see that while standards are trying to be kept, let’s face it, this is still Africa, thus it is very basic. The exhibits are interesting but not special or unusual for a person familiar with African culture.
It is notable that they continue to plant a mango tree near the spot where this plaque is placed.

Another plaque reminds us of two other colonial explorers, Burton and Speke, who, attempting to find the source of the Nile River mapped Lake Tanganyika as well as the existence of Lake Victoria, naming it for the then current Queen of England.

The hub for much of western Tanzania, Kigoma is also a port town for vessels crossing Lake Tanganyika from D.R. Congo and cargo vessels that run from Zambia up and down the lake.

Kigoma is the arrival town for ministry among the UUPG’s in this part of Tanzania. Churches ministering to the Vinza, Holoholo, Wagoma, and Tongwe people groups would begin here.

Kigoma is also the town to get supplies while ministering in the outlying villages.

These young fellas ran up to get their picture taken!

As is the case in the south, the western side of Tanzania is less developed.  There are fewer services available – only Kigoma has somewhat reliable electric and water services. The roads are in a very poor condition with some villages totally inaccessible by car.  Medical facilities are very basic and sparsely spread throughout the area – you want to stay healthy if you live out here!

However, folks are happy and enjoy life here.  The weather is very nice, not too hot, never too cold – wonderful.

Pray for the UUPGs in and around Kigoma.  The people groups living here are blinded, mostly by Islam.  They need to understand the truth of Jesus Christ.  He is not just a prophet – He is the Son of God – the way to salvation – and believing in Him is eternal life.