Mbangwe New Testament — CIEATLG Edition (ZMNCIE)

Overview

The Mbangwe New Testament is an audio Scripture translation in the Mbangwe language of Gabon and Congo, produced by the Coordination Inter-Eglises pour la Traduction et l'alphabétisation en Langue Gabonaise (CIEATLG). CIEATLG is an interdenominational coordination body in Gabon that works to translate the Scriptures and support literacy programs in the indigenous Gabonese languages. The translation is available in audio format.

Language and People

Mbangwe (ISO 639-3: zmn) is an endangered Bantu language of the Niger-Congo family spoken in the border region of Gabon and the Republic of Congo. The language has between approximately 1,000 and 4,000 speakers, classified as a first language by a decreasing number — particularly among younger generations. [1] Mbangwe is one of approximately 40 indigenous languages spoken in Gabon, where French serves as the official language and larger regional languages exert pressure on smaller ones. The language is not taught in schools, contributing to its endangered status.

Translation and Publisher

CIEATLG (Coordination Inter-Eglises pour la Traduction et l'alphabétisation en Langue Gabonaise) is the primary interchurch body responsible for coordinating Bible translation and literacy work across Gabon's indigenous languages. The organization works across denominational lines to support local churches in producing Scripture in their communities' heart languages. In addition to the Mbangwe audio translation, the Global Recordings Network provides supplementary audio evangelism materials in the language. [2]

References