The Bible Translation & Literacy (BTL) organization has launched the Chonyi language New Testament Bible in Kilifi South Constituency, marking a significant milestone for the Chonyi-speaking community.
The translation project, initiated in 2013 with a socio-linguistic survey and the development of an orthography course, was completed at a cost of Ksh 40 million.
Chonyi, one of the nine languages in the Mijikenda group, is predominantly spoken in Kilifi South.
The BTL, a Christian-based organization established in 1981, focuses on Bible translation and sustainable literacy development programs for small language groups in Kenya and beyond.
During the unveiling ceremony, BTL’s National Director, Rev. Peter Munguti, commended the linguists, consultants, and the local community for their dedication to the project.
He emphasized the importance of the translation in addressing outdated cultural practices, such as witchcraft, and in fostering community development.
“We have heard many stories of elderly killings in this area. We anticipate that after reading the word of God in their language, the community will embrace modernization,” Munguti stated.
He also highlighted the role of the Bible in preserving the Chonyi language for future generations, ensuring that it remains a vital part of their cultural heritage.
Munguti assured that the Chonyi New Testament faithfully adheres to the original scriptures in Greek and Hebrew, reinforcing BTL’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of God’s word in translation.
“Our mandate is to pass God’s word without alterations. Therefore, this version correlates with the first version written in Greek and Hebrew,” he explained.
BTL has completed translations for six Bibles and 29 New Testaments across Kenya, including those in the Duruma, Giriama, and Digo languages. The organization has also begun translating the Bible into the Ribe, Jibana, Kambe, Kauma, and Rabai languages.
Bishop Reuben Mungunya Lewa, Chairperson of the Project Advisory Committee, expressed hope that the new Bible would enhance sermons and promote love within the Chonyi community.
“The Chonyi community is losing elders day by day because of witchcraft. With this Bible, we are ready to spread the love of God to every soul,” Bishop Lewa declared.
BTL’s Board Chair, Miss Kendi Ogamba, assured residents that the organization would continue its efforts to complete the Old Testament translation. “What we have done today is just the beginning. We shall not relent until the Chonyi people have both the Old and New Testaments,” Ogamba pledged.
In addition to Bible translation, BTL has supported indigenous language education through its Mother Tongue Education Program, distributing learning materials for Grades 1, 2, and 3 in Kwale and Tana River Counties.
