Two ethnic groups in Colombia now have access to a Bible translated into their native language.

The Colombian Bible Society announced the completion of the Bible translation into Wayuunaiki, the language of the Wayú and Nasa communities, which together make up 32 per cent of the country's indigenous population, according to 2019 data from the National Administrative Department of Statistics (DANE).

"We work hand in hand with indigenous communities in Colombia to preserve their native language and speak the language of their heart through the Word of God," the Colombian Bible Society stated. They are also working on a translation of the Bible into Nasa Yuwe, further strengthening ties with these communities.

This translation marks the first time a complete Bible has been rendered in a native Colombian language. The project, which took about 13 years to complete, involved biblical scholars, native translators, and language specialists to ensure an accurate translation.

The Wayú people, indigenous to the Guajira Peninsula along the Caribbean Sea, primarily reside in the northern part of Colombia's La Guajira department and the northern region of Venezuela's Zulia state.

The translation is being celebrated as a significant milestone, as it will aid thousands of people who struggle with the Spanish language, providing crucial spiritual support and enhancing community relations.

Alexander Gómez, head of the Colombian Bible Society, expressed his satisfaction with the project's completion, saying, "It is a great satisfaction because we know there will be transformations at personal, community, and socio-cultural levels. Each Wayú brother and sister who hears the Word of God in their native language will experience the love that God expresses to us."