Preserving indigenous languages promotes moral values, says CS Ogamba

Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba taking part in BTL Kenya Run and Walk for the Bibleless held at Machakos School on July 12, 2025. [Mike Kihaki, Standard]

Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba has encouraged Kenyans to protect and promote indigenous languages saying this will enable transfer of knowledge to the young generation.

Speaking during the Machakos Bible Translation & Literacy (BTL) Kenya Run and Walk for the Bibleless held at Machakos School the CS noted that translating the Bible into Kenya's minority languages helps preserve cultural heritage and deepens spiritual literacy.

"The Government recognizes the role played by our indigenous languages and, in line with our Constitution, we are committed to working with organizations to promote their development and use," he said.

The CS encouraged Kenyans to recognize linguistic diversity as a national treasure and to stand in solidarity with organizations that work to ensure no community is left behind in the journey toward literacy and spiritual nourishment.

Ogamba acknowledged the challenges faced in Bible translation which have hindered many from undertaking the exercise.

"I have also been reliably informed that with Sh4,000, you can translate one verse. This is why fundraising activities such as today's Run and Walk are very important," he said.

He hailed organizations that promote indigenous languages and foster literacy across the country, describing the initiative as a vital investment in national identity and moral values.

"The organization's focus is on developing indigenous languages for small language communities in our country and then conducting Bible translation. I am delighted that BTL has done a very commendable job in this area, as they have already completed six whole Bibles and 11 New Testaments," said Ogamba.

The Machakos Run aimed to raise Sh5 million towards these efforts, drawing participation from church leaders, educators, corporate partners, and members of the public.

Currently, BTL is working on translation projects for 20 additional Kenyan languages and nine others in Tanzania and South Sudan.

Among the communities set to benefit from ongoing efforts are the Ogiek, Rabai, Ribe, Samburu, Daasanach, and Rendille.