Many Nigerian languages—300, perhaps, or 350—are awaiting Bible translation. Without language survey, however, planning future work is a precarious task.
Many Bible translators in the Democratic Republic of the Congo rely on motorbikes for routine travel. But all too often, current ones break down—leaving travelers stranded.
The Kenyan organization Bible Translation and Literacy serves many of its country's most isolated communities. Faulty computers, however, are shackling its efforts.
In Africa, some of those involved in Bible translation hunger for reliable information technology support. But as programs expand and the number of staff dwindles, meeting this need becomes problematic.
A Nairobi-based team is poised to train personnel, aid in planning and evaluate work. But devoid of a vehicle, they remain stranded in the capital city.
Many new methods and software programs used in Bible translation are promoted only by word of mouth, and five years can pass before some teams learn about valuable tools.
In recent years, aviation-grade gasoline has become increasingly expensive and scarce in many areas of the world—including Cameroon, where the JAARS-supported aviation program has been severely affected.
Without transportation, Bijago islanders are severed from the wider economy and Christian fellowship; bereft of medical aid, or sustenance when rice runs low.
