Since many Omaraz people live in a major city or on its outskirts, many of them enjoy greater educational and career opportunities than people in rural areas. A plastics factory in the nearby inland town of Morogoro offers various kinds of jobs. A local trade school teaches mechanics, carpentry, electrical wiring and hotel management. Training in nursing provides staffing for the local hospitals and for small village clinics.

Less than two percent of this group claim Christianity. The majority of Omaraz people follow another major religion. Many of their ancestors, being residents of the coast, joined that religion to avoid being enslaved. They’ve passed the tradition on to their children. However, the majority still openly fear witchcraft. If drought persists, locals will beat someone, accusing that person of witchcraft. A human is generally blamed and made to pay, even for natural phenomena.

Those who have made personal decisions for Christ in this group tend to be strong, determined believers. Their neighbors notice dramatic changes in new believers’ personal lives. Some who were drunkards have given up alcohol and have become productive citizens. One man’s testimony has achieved distinction: he helps his wife with “women’s” work. Their marriage has been completely renewed, as has his life. This obvious transformation makes a tremendous impact on their communities. Because the majority have little connection with or understanding of their traditional religion, they’re much more open to the gospel and its influence.