The Bible Society of Ghana has launched Gurune language translations of the biblical books of Ruth and Jonah in Bolgatanga in the Upper East Region, marking a major step in efforts to make the Holy Scriptures accessible to more Ghanaians in their mother tongue.
The launch, held on December 14, 2025, took place at the auditorium of the Redemption Assemblies of God Church under the theme, “We heard them speak in our own language.” The event brought together clergy, church members, community leaders, and residents from Gurune-speaking communities.
Gurune is widely spoken in parts of the Upper East Region, particularly in and around Bolgatanga. Organizers say the new translations are expected to deepen biblical understanding and strengthen Christian faith among native speakers, while also celebrating culture, language, and identity.
Speaking at the ceremony, the General Secretary of the Bible Society of Ghana, Very Rev. Dr. John Kwesi Addo Jnr., underscored the importance of translating the Bible into local languages.
“It is very important to have the Word of God in the Gurune language, and indeed in every Ghanaian language, because God speaks to us in our mother tongue. He speaks to us in our heart language, so when you hear God’s Word in your own language, you will not need any interpretation,” he said.
Dr. Addo explained that the translation was done using a new Gurune orthography—an updated writing system aimed at improving readability and comprehension for contemporary readers.
“We are using what we call the new orthography, the updated Gurune alphabet, and this makes it easier for the present-day Gurune person to read, understand, and engage with the Scriptures,” he added.
The Bible Society said Ruth and Jonah were selected for the launch because of their strong moral messages and relevance to modern Christian life. The books highlight themes of obedience, faithfulness, redemption, and God’s compassion, making them suitable for both personal reflection and communal worship.
As part of the initiative, the Bible Society also announced plans to distribute about 50,000 copies of Bibles to students nationwide, a move aimed at promoting Bible literacy and encouraging early engagement with Scripture among young people.
The event drew a diverse audience, including religious leaders from various denominations, community elders, youth groups, and lay members of the church. Many participants described the launch as historic, saying it would enhance worship, teaching, and evangelism in Gurune-speaking communities.
The launch reinforces the Bible Society of Ghana’s long-standing commitment to translating and distributing the Bible in Ghanaian languages, ensuring broader access to Scripture across linguistic and cultural lines.
Source: A1 Radio | 101.1Mhz | Joseph Napoleon Anaaya | Bolgatanga
