The Impact of Bible translation on the preservation of Itangikom, Lamnso and Mungaka

Akwo Cyrilus Ashanoh; Nicoline Agbor Tabe; Esther P. Chie

doi:10.21744/ijllc.v11n3.2511

Authors

Akwo Cyrilus Ashanoh
aakwocyril@yahoo.com
The University of Bamenda, Cameroon
Nicoline Agbor Tabe The University of Bamenda, Cameroon
Esther P. Chie The University of Bamenda, Cameroon

Keywords:

bible translation, cultural preservation, educational resources, indigenous languages, language preservation, literacy development

Abstract

This study explores the role of Bible translation in preserving Itangikom, Lamnso, and Mungaka—three minority languages in Cameroon’s North West Region. Using a mixed-methods approach, data were collected from interviews with five linguists and ten translators, questionnaires from 150 native speakers, focus group discussions with community elders, and analysis of translated texts. Drawing on Ethnolinguistic Vitality Theory (Fishman, 1991), Sociolinguistic Relativity Theory (Crystal, 2000), and Language Planning and Policy Theories (Spolsky, 2004), the study reveals that Bible translation enhances literacy by standardizing orthographies and supporting church-based literacy programs. Over 68% of respondents first encountered written texts in their language through religious materials (Lewis, Simons & Fennig, 2016). Translation efforts have also bolstered cultural identity, preserved orality, instilled pride, contextualized worship, and fostered intergenerational transmission. However, challenges such as limited funding, resource scarcity, the ongoing Anglophone crisis, and the influence of dominant languages like Pidgin English, English, and French (Kraus, 1992) remain. The study recommends increased investment in translation, integration into formal education, digitization, and advocacy to enhance community engagement. Ultimately, Bible translation is shown to be a powerful tool for linguistic documentation, cultural preservation, and the promotion of educational equity.

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