Where We Serve / Bandi Bible Translation
BandiBible Translation
Support the Bandi team as they continue translating the Old Testament so Bandi speaking churches in Lofa County can read and teach Scripture in their own language.
Bible Translation
Country
- Liberia
Region
- West Africa
Language Population
149,000
Bandi churches await the full Bible
The New Testament in Bandi is in use, but churches do not yet have the full biblical story. Pastors and teachers often rely on English or second language resources, which limits understanding and teaching. A complete Old Testament in Bandi supports clearer instruction, discipleship, and long‑term church growth.
Church leaders recognize that a full Bible translation is essential for:
- Deepening community spiritual knowledge
- Empowering local leadership
- Supporting evangelism and discipleship
The complete Bible will equip people to read, study, understand, and share God’s Word with unprecedented clarity and depth.
Empower Local Leaders
Annual Goals
- Scripture Translation Work (2026)
- Continue reviewing and consultant checking of Old Testament books currently in progress
- Complete scheduled consultant checks and back‑translation work during team review sessions
- Scripture Use
- Support churches and teachers already using translated Scripture in preaching, teaching, and discipleship
The Bandi people are primarily located in Liberia’s Lofa County and parts of Guinea. With 80% following traditional religions, 10% Muslim, and 10% Christian, the translation project aims to deepen Scripture access and community engagement.
Bandi Bible Translation Program Plan
Step 1
Build Translation Capacity
Step 2
Verify Translation Quality
Step 3
Expand Scripture Accessibility
Meet the Local Team
Bandi Team
19 team members
• 2 consultants
• 5 translators
• 8 review team members
• 1 CAP officer
• 3 administrative staff
DR. BECKY GROSSMANN
Dr. Becky Grossmann began serving with Lutheran Bible Translators in 1985 and was assigned as translation advisor to the Bandi people of Liberia in 1989 and the New Testament translation was completed in 1996.
Partner Organizations
Honoring the Language
Bandi is a Mande language that belongs to the Niger-Congo language family.
Most Bandi speakers live in northern Liberia, with some communities in Guinea. Many families rely on subsistence farming, and churches often serve as central gathering points for teaching and community life.
Program Progress
The Bandi Old Testament Translation effort is underway, with new translators joining the effort to bring the Bible to Bandi speakers.
Regional News & Media
Help Bring Scripture to Life
Your donation helps translate God’s Word into the Bandi language. Every gift makes a difference.