Overview
This project seeks to reach the people of Vanuatu with God’s word by making the Bible accessible through its translation in their heart languages. This project involves four new translations of the New Testament, and the revision and digitisation of existing Scripture translations in other languages.
In Vanuatu, 80-90% of the 234,000 Christian residents face a language barrier, as many do not have Scriptures in their own language and find it hard to read other languages. Vanuatu is home to 138 indigenous languages in a population of over 300,000, and each language averages only 1,760 speakers. While English, French, and local trade languages are generally understood, they are not enough to meet the needs of many Vanuatu Christians’ faith practices. Research affirms that reading Scriptures in one’s dialect in church contributes immensely to people’s understanding of the Scriptures.
The need to translate God’s word into these languages is urgent, despite the smaller number of speakers in each language.
Statistics
- 303,009 people in Vanuatu
- 80-90% (approx. 234,000 people) belong to the Christian faith
- 138 indigenous Oceanic languages
If the appeal is oversubscribed or the project changes due to unforeseen reasons, we will reallocate remaining funds to similar projects.
