Story contributed by Falitsani Kansilanga

A Community Transformed by Celebration

On Saturday, 26 April, the town of Chitipa came to life as Christians from across the northern district gathered to witness the long-awaited launch of the Lambya Bible — the very first complete Bible translated into the Chilambya language.

The day began with a colorful march from the town center to the Chitipa CCAP Church grounds. Choirs filled the streets with praise, church leaders led songs and prayers, and crowds danced joyfully. The usual quiet of Chitipa gave way to jubilant singing that echoed through the hills.

“It felt like heaven touched earth today,” said Esther Mwale, one of the participants. “To sing and march for something this sacred, in our own language, was a moment I’ll never forget.”

A Milestone Moment
The ceremony included the official dedication and launch of the Bible, followed by a symbolic distribution of copies. However, the excitement was so overwhelming that organizers decided to pause the distribution to avoid chaos and ensure fair access.

“I didn’t get a copy yet,” said James Mwalwanda, a young church member, “but just knowing the Bible now exists in Chilambya gives me hope. It means my children will grow up with God’s Word in the language they understand best.”

Voices of Leadership and Faith
Senior Chief Mabulambya, the guest of honor and cultural custodian of the Lambya people, praised the launch as a moment of pride and progress.

“Now that we have the Word in Lambya, our culture and our faith walk hand in hand,” he said.

Also in attendance was Honorable Kezzie Msukwa, Member of Parliament for the area, who encouraged the community to engage deeply with the Bible. “This gift is not just for today,” he said. “Let it guide your families and preserve the peace we cherish in this country.”

Fruit of Long-term Partnership
The Lambya Bible is the result of a partnership between The Word for the World and the Bible Society of Malawi, with financial support from the Seed Company. Translation work began in 2008 and spanned more than 15 years of dedication and collaboration.

Representatives from each organization were present to witness the impact of their efforts. “Today, we celebrate more than a translation,” said one representative. “We celebrate the fact that God now speaks Lambya.”

Where to Get Your Copy
Copies of the Lambya Bible are now available at all Bible Society of Malawi shops for MWK 23,000. Community members are encouraged to purchase a copy and begin engaging with the Scriptures in their own language — a powerful step in personal faith and cultural preservation.