The first-ever complete Bible to be translated into the Igikuria language was received with gladness by the Abakuria community and religious leaders at the Kehancha stadium on April 8th, 2022, in Migori County.

This was a great milestone for the Abakuria community as the translation took 39 years of hard work and dedication from the translators who hail from Kenya and Tanzania.

The Bible Society of Kenya General Secretary Mrs. Elizabeth Muriuki speaking at the launch said, “The Igikuria bible launch is very special to me personally as it has been a journey like no other. I was inspired by the commitment of the Pastors One Accord to this project, the numerous meetings, consultations, and even fundraising for the project.” Adding that, “This Bible is expected to positively transform the Kuria community spiritually, culturally and economically and lead to the tremendous growth of the church.”’

The Igikuria Bible is the 23rd complete Bible to be launched by the Bible Society of Kenya and the 28th community to have the full bible in Kenya.

“Kenya has over 53 language groups, 10 communities have New Testaments and 9 have portions of Scripture. The current ongoing Bible translation projects include Banyala, Mwimbi Muthambi, and Teso languages.” Elizabeth Muriuki – BSK

Her Excellency Rachel Ruto who was the Chief Guest at the launch and also led in the distribution of the new Bibles noted that the Bible will unite the Kuria community and draw them closer to God.

“This is a new journey to spiritual transformation, and will no doubt change the community’s way of life and look at the world through a different lens,” She said.

The Bible project had 17 reviewers from both countries who played a crucial role in checking the text to ensure the language used is proper Igikuria.

“My prayer is that the Bible we are launching today will be widely read and taught to our children so that they may grow knowing the ways of the Lord.” Elizabeth Muriuki – BSK

This Bible which targets more than 934,000 people is available in two editions; the Protestant edition and the Deuterocanonical edition for the Catholic faithful and can also be read online on phone via the You Version app.

The mission of the Bible Society of Kenya is to innovatively translate, publish, and advocate for the widest use of the Holy Scriptures with a desire that every community receives the word of God in languages they understand best as the word of God brings transformation.