Kamwe of Nigeria

The Kamwe people live in the northeast of Nigeria where living conditions are generally poor. They struggle with malaria and HIV/AIDS. A rigid caste system governs the social order and hinders change that could help alleviate the widespread poverty. Missionaries brought Christianity to the Kamwe in 1945. Today there are six denominations active in the area. 95% of the Kamwe people consider themselves Christians. The New Testament has been widely used since its publication in 1975, and there has been an active literacy program. During this time there have been some language changes. So the translation of the New Testament will also be reviewed and, where needed, revised before the whole Bible is published. Four translators will work on this project. Two local church leaders are enthusiastically promoting the project, and the Nigerian Bible translation organization will provide consultants to the project as needed.

  • Genesis has been drafted and now, the translators are focusing their attention on shorter books. They recently finished drafting Ruth and also started translating Esther as they continue drafting Nehemiah. Pray that the Lord will guide the team as they translate Jewish concepts that are unknown to Kamwe speakers.

  • Project coordinator and main translator Mark has formulated and distributed a plan for area churches to contribute to the project in tangible ways. Pray that more Kamwe people will stand with the project in a substantial way.

  • Plans are in the making for building a new Kamwe translation office. Pray for safe and swift construction of this office.

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