Exploring New Markets for African Christian Literature
By Dr. Muthoni Omukhango, CLC Kenya
What began as a humble vision in the heart of Nairobi has now blossomed into a cross-continental reality. Marriage, Thistles & Flowers, authored by Kenya’s beloved Marriage coaching duo—The Achokis—has officially been translated into Spanish and launched across Latin America and the USA, where a sizable Spanish-speaking population thrives, particularly within evangelical Churches.
This groundbreaking launch is not just a personal milestone for the authors; it is a strategic case study in what is possible when African Christian literature breaks language and cultural barriers.
From ACABA to the Americas
The journey to global translation began with a bold step: submission to the African Christian Authors Book Award (ACABA) by CLC Kenya in 2021. At the 4th Annual ACABA Gala held in Kampala, Uganda in 2024, the Achokis were awarded an international translation contract, four years later. This moment signified more than an award—it marked a breakthrough for African authors seeking to disciple nations through books.
A Kingdom Collaboration
The Spanish edition of Marriage, Thistles & Flowers was led by CLC Colombia, under the leadership of National Director David Pabón and Head of Publishing Blanca Lilia Garzón. A total of 1,000 copies were printed in July 2025, with public prices set at $15.99 internationally (with distributors receiving a trade discount) and 35,000 Colombian pesos locally.
Distribution is taking place through CLC bookstores in Chile, Ecuador, Mexico, Panama, Peru, Uruguay, and Venezuela, as well as through Unilit in Miami for the broader international market. This truly global effort is evidence of the strength of CLC’s worldwide motto—Stronger Together.
According to David Pabón, the book was selected because, “It offers help for different problems in a practical way and is a valuable book to guide so many needy households—experientially and spiritually.”
The Spanish Market and Beyond
With Spanish being the second largest language in evangelical publishing after English, this rollout represents a historic first for CLC Kenya—and potentially for African Christian publishing as a whole. The book is being actively promoted through Christian bookstores, Church networks, and ministry events.
Prices have been contextualised to each market, ranging between USD 8–16 depending on location, taxes, and logistics, ensuring the book remains accessible without compromising on sustainability.
A Message from the Global Office
Gary Chamberlin, International Director of CLC, shared these powerful words:
“For years, much of what we translated and published came from US and UK authors. But that is changing—and CLC Kenya is leading the way. Under the visionary leadership of Dr. Muthoni Omukhango, CLC Kenya is rapidly reshaping the landscape of Christian authorship in Kenya and across Africa. This growing body of work is not just for Africa—it’s a gift to the global Church.”
“This standout title, Marriage, Thistles & Flowers by the Achokis, is authentic, Spirit-filled, Biblically grounded, and deeply resonant across cultures. I’m encouraging all of our CLC teams—in Colombia, Italy, France, Korea and beyond—to give special attention to African-authored books. The wisdom and experience of the African Church must bless believers worldwide.”
A Wave of Translations
The Achokis’ book is not alone in this new chapter of global mission through literature. Other African titles in CLC’s Global Translation Programme include:
1. Marriage, Thistles & Flowers – also being translated into Italian.
2. A Day at the Beach by 10-year-old Audrey Spaulding – now available in Korean, proving the potential of young African voices.
3. Conceive Achieve for Teens by Adnah McKenna and Julius Mwebia – translated into French, empowering Francophone youth across Africa.
These translations are about more than just language—they are about discipleship through literature, shaping families, Churches, and societies with Biblical truths, one book at a time.
Final Reflections: Africa to the World
When God spoke of revival flowing from Kenya and Africa to the world, many pictured missionaries, worship teams, or Church planters. Few envisioned a bookshelf.
Yet here we are—witnessing a new kind of mission field. Books. Written by African believers. Rooted in Scripture. Translated for the world. From Nairobi to Bogotá and beyond.
Let us rise with courage, collaborate with vision, and publish with purpose—until every tribe, tongue, and nation knows that Jesus is Lord, even through the pages of a book.