Shona Braille Bible Launch

Here are some excerpts from the report we recently received from Tapiwa Maraire from the Bible Society of Zimbabwe following the launch of the Shona Braille Bible:

“For years, people with visual disabilities used Braille in English language and to some, it was a challenge as they wanted to read the Word of God in their heart language. Shona is widely spoken in more than seven of the ten provinces of Zimbabwe. Who knew that one day the Braille Bible will be available in Shona and used in Churches, schools and communities.”

“The Guest of Honor, Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Honorable Monica Mutsvangwa representing the government, graced the occasion and was also blindfolded and aided to her seat. Speaking during the launch, the Minister applauded the Bible Society of Zimbabwe for complimenting government efforts in driving the inclusive agenda of leaving no one and no place behind. ‘No person at whatever level of life must not be reached with the Word of God and for a nation to be at peace, there is great need for upholding Christian principles from grassroots level.’”

“Speaking at the sidelines of the launch, Mr Chando [53], a visually impaired teacher at St Faith in Rusape alluded that there was a gap between the visually impaired and the sighted ones. The only book available was in English but now the gap has been narrowed as we now have it in Shona. Brendon Nengare [20], Murewa High School upper six student said that this development shows the Glory of God as the Bible is being expressed in many languages. Ms Beauty Ngwende [22 – the Bible reader on the day pictured above holding a copy of the Gospel according to St Matthew.], a visually impaired graduate said that ‘our culture has been restored in the introduction of the Shona Braille Bible.’”