Reclaiming faith: New children's book explores Africa's role in the Bible

B is for the Bible, highlighting its many translations for diverse communities, including African languages.

D is for the Daughter of Pharaoh, who rescued baby Moses and raised him, later becoming a powerful queen. “This African woman played a pivotal role in God’s plan,” the book notes, reminding readers that she later became a powerful queen.

O is for Oasis, referencing Elim in Africa, where the Israelites rested and received manna.

Each page bursts with color and detail, captivating both children and adults. The imagery brings Africa’s rich legacy in the christian faith to life, making complex historical connections both easy and enjoyable to understand.

Perfect for homes, classrooms, and church settings, Africa and the Bible from A to Z is a powerful resource that teaches children to appreciate their African heritage as an integral part of God’s story.

The book, a follow-up to Africa and Africans in the Bible, is a collaborative effort to show how African people and places were pivotal in God’s story.

Written for children, each page takes readers through a different biblical character or location connected to Africa, from Pharaoh’s daughter who saved Moses to Simeon called Niger and the rich history of places like Cush and Libya.

Authored by Tim Welch in collaboration with Sir Nare Animation Studios and published this year by Oasis International Publishing, the book is not just telling stories, they are challenging long-standing perceptions.

“One of the primary goals of the book is to counter claims that Christianity is a “white man’s religion,” said Welch.

Welch, a missionary in Côte d’Ivoire for over 30 years and author of the research that inspired the book, emphasized the urgency of this mission.

“There’s a threat to Christianity in this region, from other religions that dismiss it as foreign, and from African traditionalists, who claim it is disconnected from our roots,” Welch said.

“This book is more than a teaching tool; it’s a celebration of African heritage in the context of the Bible. We want children of African descent to see their identity reflected in history and faith, building confidence while fostering a sense of spiritual belonging.”

This effort is part of a broader strategy to strengthen African Christianity for future generations. “If our children grow up understanding their biblical foundation, they’ll build a stronger, healthier church. They’ll know that Africa is not just a recipient of the gospel message—it’s an integral part of it,” Welch added.

Malele Ngalu, Director of Partnerships East Africa at Oasis International, said children across the continent will now rediscover their rich spiritual legacy each page, one letter, and one inspiring story at a time.

“We want children to understand that Africa and Africans have always been an integral part of Christianity. God’s story has been told through Africans for centuries. It’s not a foreign faith; it’s deeply connected to who we are,” he said.

Ngalu pointed out that while the Bible has often been weaponized, especially during slavery, it has also inspired freedom movements across the African diaspora.