He is still reverenced, however, as the one who sends rewards or punishments. The Makua also believe in other spiritual beings that take the form of nature spirits or the spirits of dead ancestors. Powerful cults of the dead are the dominant feature of religious life, providing a basis for social life in East Africa. The dead are regarded as the heads of their families. Once they have left their human bodies, they are thought to possess additional powers.
Every effort is made to assure a quiet, final rest for the dead.
Otherwise, they will return as wandering ghosts. Time and resources are spent to make sure that the ancestors remain content and that the spirits are pacified. Certain rituals are conducted in conjunction with prayers and sacrifices to ensure the good growth of crops or to ensure good health. One missions agency, however, is presently working with them, and portions of the Scriptures are available in their language. The Makua need to be set free from the fear that comes from their pagan beliefs.