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11 YWAM Missionaries Killed In Tanzania Traffic Accident

by Karen Faulkner, Worthy News Correspondent

(Worthy News) – Eleven members of the US-founded international Youth With A Mission (YWAM) evangelistic ministry were among those killed in a devastating traffic accident in the city of Arusha, northern Tanzania on Saturday, the Christian Post reports. The names of those involved in the accident have not yet been disclosed for security reasons.

YWAM is “a global movement of young people who serve Jesus in various ministries, such as discipleship training, cross-cultural missions, medical and dental care, Bible distribution, and more,” the ministry website explains. YWAM established a ministry center in Arusha in 2000. “YWAM Arusha sees itself as “a hub to the nations” and our facilities are designed accordingly. We champion men and women of all races to fulfill the great commission,” YWAM states.

Claiming the lives of 15 people in total, and involving four vehicles, Saturday’s accident in the Ngaramtoni suburb of Arusha was attributed to a suspected brake failure in a truck, CP reports.

In an initial statement YWAM said eight of its missionaries had died in the accident, but this was updated to include a total of 11, with two members hospitalized. “It is morning time in Tanzania, and we are deeply saddened to confirm the passing of another three of our dear missionaries as a result of the tragic traffic accident,” YWAM said Sunday. “Eleven of our friends are now with Jesus. Two are still in critical condition in the hospital.”

“As a movement, we gather around all those impacted by this tragedy, their families, and their communities. We are working to meet all the pressing practical, financial, and emotional needs that arise,” YWAM said, adding an “Arusha Accident Response Fund” link on its website for donations.