The Sepulana language speakers will soon be able to read the Christian scriptures in their own language as a result of a pioneering project to translate the Bible into the local dialect.
Sepulana – a language spoken predominantly in north-eastern Mpumalanga and south-eastern Limpopo – has been marginalised, with many Mapulana people forced to navigate spiritual and educational spaces in Sepedi or English.
The project is spearheaded by the Sepulana Bible Translation Project in collaboration with Wycliffe South Africa, the Mapulaneng Writers Association, and local churches.
Wycliffe South Africa is part of a global team of evangelists who partner with marginalised communities to help them translate the Bible into their native language.
“About half of the world’s 7 000 languages do not yet have even one translated verse of God’s Word in the language of their hearts. There are around 30 active languages in South Africa, many of which are still waiting for the Bible to be translated,” the organisation notes on its website.
Billy Malele, one of the project’s translators and member of the Mapulana Writers Association said they have now completed the books of Matthew and Luke. “We have started working on the Book of Mark.”
He said the association has already produced seven novels in Sepulana by different authors.
Apostle Jeffrey Malebe, a member of the Sepulana Bible Translation Steering Committee, said: “We aim to cater to both oral-preference communities and those who prefer written scripture. The involvement of local communities ensures that the translation reflects their values, culture and spiritual needs,” Malebe explained.
Despite its significance, the project has faced financial challenges. “We have been fortunate to receive support from Wycliffe Bible Society and businessman Thabang Moeng, but funding remains a critical issue.
“The project requires substantial financial resources, and unfortunately, applications to national funding institutions have been rejected,” Malebe said.
Recent developments, such as the recognition of South African Sign Language as an official language, have inspired renewed hope in the community.
Jerry Mashile, a leading member of the Mapulana Renaissance Group said their engagements with key institutions and political parties haven’t yielded much success.
“We have since turned to the Cultural, Religious and Linguistic (CRL) Rights Commission, which has committed to researching the matter. We hope the CRL’s report will eventually be tabled in Parliament.”
CRL spokesperson Mpiyakhe Mkholo did not respond to requests for comment.
Promoting Sepulana has not been limited to church leaders and activists. Local artists, including rappers such as Tarps Mash, Masta H, JOP, and King Killa, have been instrumental in popularising the language.
Morupelo cultural musicians such as DJ Talo and Laita Keletso are also playing a role in keeping the language alive.
“They can deny us official recognition, but when we sing in our language, it’s a demonstration of self-love and a recognition of our own significance,” said music producer Jeremiah “St Jerome” Magabane.
