By Kenneth Zindondo, Mana

Lilongwe, June 18, Mana: The Bible Society of Malawi (BSM) is set to host a high-profile fundraising event dubbed “Go Ye Tea-Ch” on June 21 at Capital Hotel in Lilongwe, aiming to raise K50 million for the ongoing Chichewa Study Bible project.

The initiative seeks to support critical components of the second phase of the translation effort, including salaries for editors and reviewers, community review meetings, and other operational costs essential for the rollout of the Chichewa Study Bible.

The event, which is expected to draw Christian women from diverse backgrounds, has been designed to not only fundraise but also deepen understanding of the role the Bible plays in socio-spiritual transformation among Malawians.

Speaking in an interview, Media Chair and Executive Committee Member for the Bible Society of Malawi, Jennifer Tseka, emphasized the fundraiser's dual focus on economic and spiritual empowerment.

“This event is about inspiring Christian women to lead in fostering family prosperity – spiritually, economically and in terms of health,” Tseka said.

She added that proceeds will be mobilized through ticket sales and corporate sponsorships, with a portion of funds already pledged by partners in the private sector.

The Bible Society of Malawi, an interconfessional body, has for decades partnered with Christian churches and institutions across the country to promote Bible accessibility in local languages.

Tseka noted that the importance of the Chichewa Study Bible project goes beyond faith practice it is a cultural milestone.

“We are not just translating we are contextualizing the Word for current and future generations in a way that speaks directly to their lived experience,” she said.

Faith-based organizations, particularly in rural Malawi, have long advocated for locally adapted religious texts.

According to the Malawi Council of Churches, nearly 70 percent of the country’s population identify as Christian, making the demand for accessible scripture in native languages particularly strong.

BSM says it hopes to finalize the Chichewa Study Bible by 2026, depending on sustained funding.

The June 21 event will feature a tea ceremony, keynote speeches from prominent women leaders in church and society, and a live auction to further mobilize resources.