The first printed publication in Benishangul-Gumuz (Ethiopia) was the newspaper “Christ is the Answer”

The newspaper “Christ is the Answer” was published for the first time in the fall of 2024 in the Gumuz language with a circulation of 20,000. It was also the first publication in the history of the people of the same name. It was a landmark event for the people of the Benishangul-Gumuz region.   

“When we started to distribute our newspapers, the local population was very enthusiastic: a crowded rally was held, police and government officials came to the church and thanked us for the newspaper. 

The local people were impressed by the fact that the newspaper was printed in their native language. As a result, hearts were opened to receive the Gospel. That day, about 50 people repented and accepted Jesus Christ. The religious leaders of the local churches also responded positively to the event. They were very grateful and rejoiced,” wrote Taras Sen, director of the ministry, on his Facebook page. 

The Gumuz language is spoken by 179,000 people. In the Benishangul-Gumuz region, local CITA missionaries have opened four churches.   

The newspaper “Christ is the Answer” has been distributed in Ukraine since 2007. From a “church” newspaper, it has become an all-Ukrainian newspaper. Since 2021 it has been distributed in Ethiopia in three languages, and since 2024 – in Latin and South America – in Spanish.

In terms of volume, about 700 thousand copies are printed annually in Ukraine. In Ethiopia, 100 thousand copies are published annually in the Amharic and Oromo languages.  

Newspapers are used for evangelism on the streets, in public transport, at eye clinics, in tents, while feeding the needy and distributing food packs to the needy. 

The newspaper features lifestyle articles based on biblical values, testimonies and stories of conversion to God, good news, a helpline number, space for addresses of evangelical churches, prayers of repentance, and useful contacts.

CITA Ministry Press Center.