You don't need a fancy office
to do translation checking. (Bwisi, Uganda)

Beginnings

Linguistic work began among the Bwisi people in 1992 by SIL-trained linguists working with World Harvest Mission. The family was forced to leave the field, but Bible translation continued with another family from 1994-2004. Rebel activity interrupted the work from 1997-2000 and forced the missionaries to evacuate the area periodically. It became clear that the Bwisi people themselves needed translation training so that they could continue translating the Bible, even during difficult times. Bible translation work began in 2000.

Translation Collaboration

The Bwisi and gu (or Lubwisi and Lugungu) teams have around 60% words in common and use the same Bible in the language of wider communication. Since the languages are similar, the translators have been able to do translation cross-checks for portions of Acts which trains the translators for consulting and enhances the translations by getting questions by a person more familiar with the culture and language than from a consultant from a western country. This arrangement has been most beneficial in encouraging them in their work and facilitating discussion with other teams.

Bwisi Translation Team

The Bwisi team consists of Charles M and Hannington B. These men have received training in translation and are getting guidance by Wycliffe translation coordinator Waller T and translation consultant John A. Charles and Hannington are working on the Book of Luke and hope to be finished by July 2006.

Translation Work

The Lubwisi translation team has produced the following:

• Gospel of Mark
• Jonah
• The JESUS film script
• Acts

Upon the clear reading of a section of Mark in Bwisi language, the Bwisi church erupted in spontaneous applause and wonder. Several hundred people, including high-ranking government officials, attended the dedications of Jonah and Mark.

Joseph T, Charles M and Hannington B.
recording Jonah. (Bwisi, Uganda)

Vernacular Media

The book of Jonah has now been recorded with the help of Joseph T, a Wycliffe vernacular media specialist (VMS) and by Charles M. and Hannington B. who read the book aloud. Recordings are significant as they encourage new literates who find it difficult to read. Vernacular media can also share information with illiterate who are important figures in the acceptance of the Scriptures.

Literacy Among the Lubwisi

The transition primer is still in the formative stage and there are only a few texts.

The Lubwisi literacy coordinator is Timothy B. He works with Hezekiah (Bwisi DR eracy supervisor), Alajo and Asaba (Bwisi Literacy Supervisors). Another literacy worker is called Coslanta who, although she has responsibilities in the home as a wife and mother, has proven to be a high-energy capable community mobilizer.