The Journey August 2024: CABTAL Begins Printing Bibles Locally

The printing of the Nulibie New Testament in the Print Shop

In a significant milestone for Bible translation and distribution, the Cameroon Association for Bible Translation and Literacy (CABTAL) has started printing the Bible in Cameroon. Following months of successful trials with other books and portions of Scripture, CABTAL has now embarked on the effective printing of the Nulibie New Testament – igniting great hope.

“The CABTAL printing press stands as a beacon of hope, dedicated to spreading the light and fragrance of Jesus Christ across Cameroon and Africa,” said Dr. Keyeh Emmanuel, CABTAL’s General Director.

This marks a pivotal moment for the Nulibie-speaking community in central Cameroon, who will be fortunate not to wait years for the arrival of their own printed Scriptures. For some time now, translation teams have faced prolonged delays, sometimes up to four years, between completing their translations and receiving the printed Bibles. This extended wait has often hindered the timely dissemination of the Scriptures to the communities that need them most. However, CABTAL’s recent advancements in printing capabilities promise to change this narrative.

The CABTAL printing press at work

“Through this vital opportunity, we aim to accelerate access to translated scriptures, ensuring that the life-changing message of the Bible reaches different language communities faster, inspiring faith, understanding, and spiritual growth," Keyeh said.

The Nulibie New Testament was typeset in March 2024, and the printing process is expected to end by October 2024. This timely completion will ensure that the Nulibie-speaking community will soon have access to their own New Testament. This will foster spiritual growth and literacy within the community – values cherished by the 37-year-old organisation.

"Our mission goes far beyond the simple act of putting ink on paper; it is about delivering God's Word speedily to individuals and communities,” he said.

From Cameroon, the complete Bible in Mofur Gudur, the New Testament in Mengaka, Tuki, Buwal, Gavar and Mbudum are already lined up for the printing press. The broader Cameroonian public and other Bible agencies across Africa are already knocking.

The 23 New Testaments and one Bible completed and dedicated by CABTAL were printed in Korea. But this initiative underscores a new commitment to seeing individuals and communities speedily transformed by the Word of God. As the printing process nears completion, anticipation and excitement are building among the Nulibie speakers, who eagerly await the arrival of their printed Bibles. They have started mobilising for a dedication.

Story and photos: CABTAL