Legendary evangelist Billy Graham said, “If you are ignorant of God’s Word, you will always be ignorant of God’s will.” The Bible gives us instruction, wisdom, God’s promises, and the story of His everlasting love. In the words of FEBA Philippines: God’s Word is the source of H.O.P.E. (Harmony, Obedience, Peace, and Empowerment).

But what if you cannot read?

In Africa, this is no idle question; in the countries where FEBA works, it is the reality of millions of people. The following is a snapshot of illiteracy levels among people aged 15 and older, as per the World Bank’s latest data:

             Chad                    ± 70%

             Malawi                ± 31%

             Mali                       ± 69%

             Mozambique   ± 40%

             Niger                    ± 65%

             Sudan                  ± 40%

There are also large discrepancies between people in urban and rural areas, and in Muslim-majority countries, the difference in literacy levels between men and women is especially stark. Poverty and illiteracy have created a destructive cycle:

• low literacy rates mean fewer teachers, so children must travel long distances to their nearest schools, which makes many of them quit;
• those who do manage to attend school have a weak support system at home, because their illiterate parents cannot help them with homework; and
• due to their illiteracy, these parents remain in low-paying jobs and often take their children out of school so that they can earn money.

Thus, the next generation grows up with poor literacy and poorer prospects.

How, then, can they find hope in God’s Word?

The simple answer is audio. Through radio and audio Bibles, people can access God’s Word without having to read. FEBA provides not only Scripture but also discussions that help listeners to gain a deeper understanding of the Bible.

“I have never been to school and understand only my dialect,” a 21-year-old FEBA listener in Niger recently shared. He was listening to radio on his cell phone and stumbled upon FEBA Niger’s station. “The presenter was preaching in my dialect and it touched me, so I decided to call his number. He led me in the confessional prayer to receive Christ into my heart.” [NOTE: This young man suffered rejection from his family after coming to Christ and requested our prayers.]

The experience is echoed by this listener in Mozambique, who says, “The ability to listen to the gospel in my own language through radio has not only increased my understanding of God’s Word but has also strengthened my faith … I would also like to encourage others in my community who may struggle with reading to explore the joys of listening to the gospel via the radio or audio Bibles. It’s a beautiful way to connect with God’s message.”