In a landmark development for 2026, Children for Christ Ministry is expanding its reach by publishing training manuals in Tumbuka for the first time. As Malawi’s third major language—following the official languages of Chichewa and English—this translation marks a significant step in supporting ministry across the Northern Region.
Tumbuka serves as the primary lingua franca for the districts of Rumphi, Mzimba, Mzuzu City, Karonga, Chitipa, Nkhata-Bay, and Likoma. CFCM is very active in these districts, and in some of the most rural parts. Tumbuka is often the only language spoken fluently by local Sunday school teachers and Bible club leaders. Until now, a language barrier existed between the spoken instruction and the written resources provided.
For a few years, Pastor Hector Tembo, CFCM’s Regional Coordinator for the North, has advocated for this change. Pastor Tembo frequently conducted training sessions in Tumbuka but was forced to distribute notes written in Chichewa, and saw this as a great challenge and problem for some teachers. Taking the lead on the project, Pastor Tembo oversaw the translation process, which reached successful completion in January of this year.
We thank God for the strength and resources to finalize this project and fulfil the vision. Our prayer is that these manuals will serve as an enduring resource for Sunday school teachers and Bible club leaders throughout the Northern Region. By providing materials in their native tongue, we aim to empower these mentors to refresh their knowledge and deepen their impact as they minister to Malawi’s children.
cfcmuk.org 