Zakshi New Testament — Language Developers and Bible Translators (ZAZLDT)

Overview

The Zakshi New Testament is a Scripture translation in the Zakshi (Zari) language of Bauchi State, Nigeria, produced by the Language Developers and Bible Translators Association (LDBT) of Nigeria. LDBT is a registered Nigerian organization dedicated to Bible translation and language development in the minority languages of Bauchi and surrounding states. Audio resources in Zakshi are available, and the Global Recordings Network also offers audio evangelism materials in the language.

Language and People

Zakshi (ISO 639-3: zaz) is spoken in Bauchi State, north-central Nigeria, and is known by multiple alternative names including Zari, Boto, Bibot, Boot, Kopti, Kwapm, Zaksa, and Zariwa. The language belongs to the West Chadic branch of the Afro-Asiatic family. Oral Bible Storytelling workshops in Zakshi were organized in March 2017 alongside sessions for related languages including Baraza, Buli, Ribina, and Tala, reflecting the active engagement of LDBT and partner organizations in this language cluster. [1]

Translation and Publisher

The Language Developers and Bible Translators Association (LDBT Nigeria) emerged from earlier work by Luke Partnership International, which began Bible translation activities in Bauchi State in 2006. After Luke Partnership concluded its initial projects, local leaders Ahmed Madiya Usman and Joseph Goje convened representatives of several language communities and formally established LDBT on August 8, 2015 (Registration No. 8024, Corporate Affairs Commission). [2] LDBT's translation methodology includes Oral Bible Storytelling and written translation training, with consultant-checking workshops supported by international partners. The organization's work in Zakshi complements LDBT translations in other Bauchi State languages.

References