Recovering Language and Hope in Botswana 

In Botswana, with a population of more than 2 million people, there are 35 languages. Only 14 of those have complete Bibles. Lutheran Bible Translators is working with Shekgalagari, Wayeyi, and Khwedam languages in not just translation, but also literacy and development, which has brought those communities a renewed sense of dignity and value.  

A Life of Oppression and Heartbreak 

In Botswana, the national language of Setswana allows people from different backgrounds and regions of the country to communicate. However, for many rural areas, Setswana is a language of oppression and heartbreak.  

Displaced from their land by another tribe, disconnected from their history, forced into villages surrounded by people who hated them, and expected to use languages they didn’t understand. the Khwe people lost their sense of purpose and dignity. They were greatly impacted by the AIDS epidemic. The Shekgalagari, Wayeyiare also seen by other language groups in Botswana as less than human, outsiders and unwanted.   

Preserving Language 

The Shekgalagari, Wayeyi, and Khwe communities are culturally similar, with strong family relationships, shared responsibility, and respect for elders. They share oral history through stories, and song and dance are a part of healing and celebration.  

Bible translation is reviving their original languages, though the work is difficult. Rev. Tim Beckendorf collaborated with villages to develop a phonetic alphabet. He worked slowly through the orthography—a process that started with regular walks with villagers, asking them to name plants and trees.  

Hope through translation 

Language development efforts brought hope to communities and made it possible for Bible translation to continue in each language.  

The Shekgalagari New Testament was dedicated in March 2024 and almost immediately, work began on the translation of the Old Testament. In 2026, the Khwe dedicated the Panoramic Bible, a collection of translations from across both testaments providing an introduction to God’s work and the hope of Jesus Christ. Work continues on the Wayeyi translation’s New Testament, which is nearing completion.  

Sustainability at the Core 

By training with Lutheran Bible Translators, Shekgalagari translator Pontsho Mosweu learned how to lead workshops, mentor youth and share translation tools with local pastors. She works as an assistant project coordinator for the Shekgalagari Bible Translation Project and doesn’t want to see the work end with a completed Bible. Pontsho wants progress to continue as she and other leaders train others the way they have been taught. She said it’s important for the locals to learn so they can stand on their own now and in the future.  

“If we train one person, we train many, because they will go and teach others,” she said. “This is how the work will last. Not only by finishing a translation, but by training those who will continue it.”  

Leadership is Key to Growth 

The leadership of the programs in Botswana is integral to continuing the work and moving forward with education and literacy programs.  

Rev. Carl Grulke, regional director of Southern Africa and Ethiopia, has served with Lutheran Bible Translators since 2016. He is committed to building partnerships, organizing conferences and workshops and developing opportunities to bring Bible translators and local leaders together.  

Khwe Pastor and Translator Splash Hepuru Moronga has been part of the Khwedam language development translation process since its beginning. Raised in the Christian faith, Splash was also taught the importance of restoring his minority language. He is passionate about the Khwe people having access to God’s Word in their language. 

Rev. Dr. Tim Beckendorf, a missionary consultant, is professionally trained and equipped for cross-cultural and native Bible translation ministry. He has been in Botswana serving the Khwe people since 2006, first developing an orthography and then guiding translation. His work with language laid the groundwork for the translation process. 

Pontsho Mosweu is an assistant project coordinator for the Shekgalagari Bible Translation Project and a deaconess in the Lutheran Church in Botswana. Pontsho started working on the Shekgalagari New Testament project in 2011 and quickly became a key member of the team. Pontsho is working to develop her knowledge of Biblical Hebrew through a training program so she can be a better translator and exegete.  

Tshwaraganang Tjetjoo, assistant Scripture engagement coordinator for the Shekgalagari Bible Translation Project, joined the project in 2013. She holds a business degree and has a strong belief that the Bible is central to guiding the life of a Christian. These two strengths are essential as Tshwari is learning how to help people to engage with their new Shekgalagari New Testaments, a task which involves both logistics and commitment for getting Bibles to people in their villages.  

Preparing for the Next Step 

In preparation for Old Testament translation, local leaders have been sent to South Africa for rigorous Hebrew training, equipping them with the linguistic depth needed for faithful, lasting work. This training will enable them to lead future projects with confidence and integrity. This is the next step in ensuring translation work can continue without dependence on external leadership.  

To follow the work in Botswana, visit Botswana program page.