Bungeni is a village near Makhado / Louis Trichardt in Limpopo Province. Like many parts of Africa, the Prosperity Gospel and syncretism between Christianity and African Traditional Religion are widespread in the area. Many people will identify themselves as Christian, but few know and believe the biblical gospel.

There are very few Bible-teaching churches in the area. There is a massive need! However, there are also exciting opportunities for gospel partnerships. Akani has developed friendships with a small group of solid churches who are working together to reach all the Xitsonga-speaking villages in the region.

Akani and Lerato have been married since 2013 and are the parents of 4 children.

Akani was born and raised in Bungeni Village and has a lot of family in the village and surrounding area. Xitsonga is his first language and he is fluent in Tshivenda, the next most common first language in the area. Lerato also grew up in a village (North of Rustenburg, North-West Province). She understands Xitsonga and is growing in her fluency.

The Hlungwanes were part of Living Hope Church for 11 years from 2013 until November 2024, when they were sent out to the field. The Hlungwanes have been a huge blessing to Living Hope! Church! They have served and ministered in a wide variety of ways, and we have seen God very evidently at work in them and through them! We are excited to see how the Lord will use them to spread the passion for the glory of God amongst the Tsongas.