6,447,000 (1995). Republic of Chad. République du Tchad. Literacy rate 17%; 13% (1977 C. M. Brann). Also includes Hausa. Information mainly from Jungraithmayr 1981, Boyeldieu 1985, SIL 1996. Data accuracy estimate: B. Literacy rate 17. Muslim, Christian, traditional religion. Blind population 110,000 to 175,000. The number of languages listed for Chad is 128. Of those, 127 are living languages and 1 is extinct.
AMDANG (MIMI, MIMA, MUTUTU, BILTINE, ANDANG, ANDANGTI) [AMJ] 15,000 (1956 Tucker and Bryan). East. Two groups: Biltine Prefecture, Biltine Subprefecture, Southeast of Biltine; Ouaddai Prefecture, Am Dam Subprefecture, northeast of Am Dam and east of the Karanga. Also in Sudan. Nilo-Saharan, Fur. Thoroughly Arabicized. Often confused with other languages called 'Mimi' (M.L. Bender). Called 'Mima' by the Arabs and 'Mututu' by the Maba. They call themselves 'Andang'. Muslim. Survey needed.
ARABIC, BABALIA CREOLE (BABALIA, BUBALIA, BABALIYA) [BBZ] 3,937 (1993 census). West. Chari Baguirmi Prefecture, N'Djamena Subprefecture. North of Djermaya and between Karal and Tourba. Possibly also in the Bokoro Subprefecture around Ngoura. 23 villages. Creole, Arabic based. A creole developed from Chadian Arabic (90% of the vocabulary) and Berakou (10%; Decobert). There is a post-creole continuum from Chadian Arabic to the Bagirmian basilect. The ethnic group is called 'Babalia'. The original language was Berakou. Babalia shares structural similarities with Juba Arabic because both are spoken by people whose original mother tongues are related. Muslim. Survey needed.
ARABIC, CHADIAN SPOKEN (ARABE CHOA, SHUWA ARABIC, SHUA ARABIC, SHUA, CHOWA, CHADIC ARABIC, CHAD ARABIC, CHADIAN ARABIC, SUWA, L'ARABE DU TCHAD) [SHU] 754,590 speakers in Chad, 12% of the population (1993 census); probably spoken by half the population in Chad including second language speakers (1977 Bendor-Samuel); 100,000 in Nigeria (1973 SIL); 63,600 in Cameroon (1982 SIL); 50,000 in Niger (1991 Vanderaa); 63,000 in Central African Republic (1996); 1,031,000 in all countries. Salamat, Ouaddai, Biltine, center of the Batha region and to the west, much of Chari-Baguirmi. Beginning to be more widely used in Mayo-Kebi, in the north of Tandjile and in the Guera. Afro-Asiatic, Semitic, Central, South, Arabic. Dialects: BILTINE, BATHA, CHARI-BAGUIRMI, SALAMAT. 'Shuwa Arabic' is the name used in various other countries for the dialect near Lake Chad. No diglossia with Modern Standard Arabic. Dictionary, grammar, and pedagogical materials. Trade language. Muslim. NT 1967-1991. Bible portions 1964.
ARABIC, STANDARD [ABV] Middle East, North Africa. Afro-Asiatic, Semitic, Central, South, Arabic. Increasingly taught in schools and used in media. National language. Braille Scripture in progress. Bible 1984-1991. NT 1980-1982. Bible portions 1984.
BAGIRMI (BAGUIRMI, BAGHIRMI, BAGUIRME, TAR BARMA, BARMA, MBARMA, TAR BAGRIMMA, BAGRIMMA, LIS, LISI) [BMI] 44,761 in Chad (1993 census). West. Chari Baguirmi Prefecture. Two groups: Massenya Subprefecture around Massenya; Bousso Subprefecture around Bousso. The Gol are at Massénya, the Kibar east of Massénya, the Bangri west of Massénya and along the Chari River between Guélendeng and N'Djaména, and the Dam along the Chari River from Bousso to Geúlendeng. A few in Nigeria. Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, West, Bongo-Bagirmi, Sara-Bagirmi, Bagirmi. Dialects: GOL, KIBAR, BANGRI, DAM. Many dialects. The majority use Arabic as second language. Bagirmi is widely spoken as a second language. It was the language of the ancient Bagirmi kingdom. Trade language. Muslim. Work in progress.
BAREIN (BARAÏN, GUILIA, JALKIA) [BVA] 4,100 (1993 SIL and census). Central. Guera Prefecture, Melfi Subprefecture, west (Jalkia), south, southwest (Komi), and east (Sakaya) of Melfi. Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, East, B, B.3. Dialects: JALKIA, GUILIA, SAKAYA (DAGNE, JELKIN), KOMI. 92% lexical similarity between Jalkia and Guilia, 70% between Sakaya and both Jalkia and Guilia. The people speak Shuwa Arabic as second language. Muslim. Survey needed.
BEDJOND (MBAY BEDIONDO, MBAY BEJONDO, BEDIONDO MBAI, BÉDJONDE, BEDJONDO, BEDIONDO, NANGNDA) [MAP] 36,000 (1969 Caprile and Fedry). Southwest, Moyen-Cahri Prefecture, Koumra and Moissala Subprefectures, centered around Bediondo. West of the Day. Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, West, Bongo-Bagirmi, Sara-Bagirmi, Sara, Sara Proper. Dialects: BEDJOND, BÉBOTE, GOR, YOM, MONGO (MBAY DOBA). A distinct language from Sar or Ngambai. Work in progress.
BERAKOU (BABALIA, BUBALIA) [BXV] 2 speakers in their 60's (1995 Djarangar). West. Chari Baguirmi Prefecture. 3 groups: N'Djamena Subprefecture, north of Djermaya and between Karal and Tourba; Bokoro Subprefecture, around Ngoura. 23 villages. Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, West, Bongo-Bagirmi, Sara-Bagirmi, Bagirmi. Dialects: BOLO DJARMA, MONDOGOSSOU, MANAWADJI, YIRYO. Shuwa Arabic or Babalia Arabic are used by speakers as second languages. During the last century the Babalia have been shifting to Shuwa Arabic or Kotoko languages. The people are called 'Babalia', the language 'Berakou'. Muslim. Nearly extinct.
BESME (HUNER, HOUNAR, 'UNAR, BESEME, BESEMME, BODOR) [BES] 1,228 (1993 census). Southwest, Tandjile Prefecture, Kelo Subprefecture, southwest of Kelo. Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Adamawa, Mbum-Day, Kim. Survey needed.
BIDEYAT (BAELE, ANNA, AWE, TERAWIA, BERIA, BERI) [BIH] 3,000 (1982). They are reported to have declined from 20,000. North. B.E.T. Prefecture, Ennedi Subprefecture, east of Fada. The Sahara is on three sides. Nilo-Saharan, Saharan, Eastern. The majority use Shuwa Arabic as second language. Not a dialect of Zaghawa, although sometimes considered to be one. Also known as 'Beria' together with Zaghawa. Mountains. Animal husbandry; gatherers; agricultural; traders: livestock, hides and skins, butter, salt. Altitude: 600 meters. Muslim.
BIDIYO (BIDYO, BIDIO, 'BIDIO, 'BIDIYO, BIDIYO-WAANA, BIDIYA) [BID] 14,000 (1981 Jungraithmayr). Central, Guera Prefecture, Mongo Subprefecture, west of Abou Telfan. Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, East, B, B.1, 1. Dialects: GARAWGINO, JEKKINO, BIGAWGUNO, NALGUNO, 'OBOYGUNO. The first 2 dialects listed are eastern, the others western. The majority use Shuwa Arabic as second language. Dictionary. Grammar. Muslim.
BILALA (BOULALA, BULALA, MAGE, MA) [BKX] 136,629 (1993 census). Central, Batha Prefecture, Ati Subprefecture, and Chari-Baguirmi Prefecture Bokoro Subprefecture, around Lake Fitri. Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, West, Bongo-Bagirmi, Sara-Bagirmi, Bagirmi. Closely related to Kuka. Related but not inherently intelligible with Berakou, Kenga or Medogo. Muslim.
BIRGIT (BERGIT, BIRGID, BERGUID) [BTF] 3,600 (1952). Southeast, Salamat Prefecture, Aboudeia Subprefecture. South of Mubi, centered in Abgé. Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, East, B, B.1. Dialects: ABGUE, EASTERN BIRGIT, DUGURI, AGRAB. All sources since Greenberg list it as a separate language from other Dangla languages. Different from Birked (Birgit) of Sudan, a Nilo-Saharan language. Survey needed.
BOLGO [BVO] 1,800 (1993 SIL and census). South central, Guera Prefecture, Melfi Subprefecture, east of the Barain, northeast of Melfi. Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Adamawa, Mbum-Day, Bua. Dialects: BOLGO DURAG (SMALL BOLGO), BOLGO KUBAR (BIG BOLGO). Language use is vigorous, even though most speakers use Shuwa Arabic as second language. 68% lexical similarity between the two 'dialects' and between Bolgo Durag and a form of Koke spoken in Daguela.
BON GULA (TAATAAL, POUN, BON, BUN, GULA GUERA) [GLC] 1,200 (1993 SIL and census). Southeast, Guera Prefecture, Melfi Subprefecture. North of Lake Iro, north of Zan. Bon and Ibir villages. Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Adamawa, Mbum-Day, Bua. Language use is vigorous even though the majority use Shuwa Arabic as second language. Bon Gula and Zan Gula are referred to together as 'Gula Guera'. 46% lexical similarity with Zan Gula.
BUA (BOA, BOUA, BWA, 'BA) [BUB] 7,708 (1993 census). South. Two groups: Moyen-Chari Prefecture, Sarh Subprefecture, around and to the northeast of Korbol; Guera Prefecture, Melfi Subprefecture, around Gabil. Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Adamawa, Mbum-Day, Bua. Different from Bua (Bwa) of Zaïre, which is Benue-Congo. A separate language from Niellim, Fania, Tounia, and Day. Bilingualism in Arabic is limited. 'Mana', or 'Kobe' may be an alternate name or dialect. Traditional religion, Muslim.
BUDUMA (BOUDOUMA, YIDENA, YEDIMA, YEDINA, YIDANA) [BDM] 51,600 in Chad (1993 SIL and census); 4,000 in Niger; 3,000 in Nigeria; 200 in Cameroon; 58,800 in all countries. West, Lac Prefecture, Bol Subprefecture, islands and northern shore of Lake Chad. Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-Mandara, B, B.1, Buduma. Dialects: BUDUMA, KURI (KOURI, KAKAA). Language use is vigorous; used in the home and traditional livelihoods. 2/3 have good to excellent oral proficiency in Kanembu as second language, about 50% in Kanuri. Some can use Arabic. Buduma speakers have 90% intelligiblity of Kuri dialect. Grammar. Below 5% literate. Fishermen, agriculturalists. Muslim, traditional religion. Work in progress.
BUSO (BUSSO, DAM DE BOUSSO) [BSO] 40 to 50 (1971 Welmers). West, Chari-Baguirmi Prefecture, Bousso Subprefecture, in Maffaling and Bousso. Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, East, A, A.1. Boyeldieu says it is not in the Bua group, but Chadic. Nearly extinct.
CHADIAN SIGN LANGUAGE [CDS] 390 or more users out of a large deaf population (1989 Mokommbay Yonadjiel KATA). Schools and an association for the deaf in N'Djamena, Sarh, and Moundou. Deaf sign language. Influences from American Sign Language. Some signs are traditional. Teachers were trained in Nigeria. Muslim, Christian. Survey needed.
DAJU, DAR DAJU (DADJO, DADJU, DAJOU, DAJU, DAJO, DAJU MONGO, DAJU OUM HADJER, SAARONGE) [DJC] 23,100 (1993 SIL and census). Central, Guera Prefecture, Mongo Subprefecture, around Mongo and Eref. Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Western, Daju, Western Daju. 70% lexical similarity with Dar Sila Daju. They call themselves 'Saaronge'. The majority use Shuwa Arabic as second language. Muslim. Work in progress.
DAJU, DAR SILA (SILA, SULA, DAJU, DADJO, DAJOU, BOKORUGE, BOKORIKE) [DAU] 33,000 in all countries (1971 Welmers). Eastern, Ouaddai Prefecture, Goz-Beida Subprefecture, around Goz-Beida and to the south of Mongororo. Also in Sudan; primarily in Chad. Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Western, Daju, Western Daju. 70% lexical similarity with Dar Daju Daju. They call themselves 'Bokoruge'. The majority use Shuwa Arabic as second language. Muslim.
DANGALÉAT (DANGLA, DANAL, DANGAL) [DAA] 27,000 including 11,000 in the western dialect, 16,000 in the eastern and central dialects (1993 SIL and census). Central, Guera Prefecture, Mongo and Bitkine subprefectures, west of Mongo. The western dialect is around Korbo; central dialect around Barlo, Koubo Adougoul; eastern dialect around Korlongo. Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, East, B, B.1, 1. Dialects: WEST DANGALEAT (KORBO, KARBO), CENTRAL DANGALEAT, EAST DANGALEAT. Intelligibility between speakers of the eastern and western dialects is low, but both understand the central dialect well. The majority use Arabic as second language. Grammar. Dictionary. 1% to 5% literate. Western: traditional religion); Eastern and Central: primarily Muslim, some Christian, some traditional religion. Work in progress.
DAY (DAI) [DAI] 49,916 (1993 census). Southwest, Moyen-Chari Prefecture, Sarh and Moissala Subprefectures, southwest of Sarh. Probably not in Central African Republic. Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Adamawa, Mbum-Day, Day. Dialects: BOUNA, BANGOUL, NGALO, TAKAWA-BÉNGORO. The dialects are inherently intelligible to their speakers. Dictionary. Grammar. NT 1989.
DAZA (DASA, DAZZA) [DAK] 282,281 in Chad (1993 census); 15,000 in Niger (1991) 297,281 in all countries. North, Kanem and B.E.T. prefectures, Borkou and Ennedi subprefectures, north of Lake Chad and in the area of Largeau. Nilo-Saharan, Saharan, Western, Tebu. The majority use Arabic as second language. Close to Teda. Different from Daza in Nigeria, which is Chadic. Muslim. Work in progress.
DISA [DIV] South, Moyen-Chari Prefecture, Kyabé Subprefecture, northwest of Lake Iro. Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, West, Bongo-Bagirmi, Sara-Bagirmi, Bagirmi. Little is known about it. Survey needed.
FANIA (FAGNIA, FANYA, FANYAN, FANA, FANIAN, MANA, KOBE) [FAN] 1,100 (1993 SIL and census). Southeast, Guera Prefecture, Melfi Subprefecture, west of Lake Iro, in and around Karo, north of Sarh; Sisi, Timan, Ataway, Karo, and Aya villages. Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Adamawa, Mbum-Day, Bua. Dialects: NORTHERN FANIA, SOUTHERN FANIA. 79% lexical similarity between dialects. Vigorous language use even though most speakers use Shuwa Arabic as second language. A separate language from Bua. Mana (Kobe) may be an alternate name or dialect. Muslim primarily.
FRENCH [FRN] 3,000 in Chad (1993); 72,000,000 in all countries (1995 WA). Indo-European, Italic, Romance, Italo-Western, Western, Gallo-Romance. National language. Bible 1530-1986. NT 1474-1980. Bible portions 1483-1987.
FULFULDE, ADAMAWA (ADAMAWA FULANI, PEUL, PEULH, PULLO, PULE, FUL, FULA FULBE, BOULBE, EASTERN FULANI, FOULFOULDE, GAPELTA, PELTA HAY, DOMONA, PLADINA, PALATA, PALDIDA, PALDENA, DZEMAY, ZEMAY, ZAAKOSA, TAAREYO, SANYO, BIIRA) [FUB] 760,000 or more in all countries; 668,700 in Cameroon (1986); 90,000 in Sudan (1982); 5,000,000 including second language speakers in Cameroon (1987 UBS). 13,000,000 all Fulfulde languages in all countries, probably including second language speakers (1991 WA). Southwest, Mayo-Kebbi Prefecture, around Léré. Also in Nigeria. Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Atlantic, Northern, Senegambian, Fula-Wolof, Fulani, Eastern. Dialects: MAROUA, GAROUA, NGAOUNDÉRÉ, KAMBARIIRE, NOMADIC FULFULDE, BILKIRE FULANI (BILKIRI). Fulfulde is the language, Fulbe the people. Dictionary, grammars in Maroua and Ngaoundéré dialects. Traditional religion, Muslim. Bible 1983. NT 1963-1964. Bible portions 1919-1966.
FULFULDE, BAGIRMI (BAGHIRMI PEUL, BAGIRMI FULA) [FUI] 24,000. West, Chari-Baguirmi Prefecture, Massenya Subprefecture. Several areas, especially around Massenya. Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Atlantic, Northern, Senegambian, Fula-Wolof, Fulani, Eastern. Spoken by people of Wodaabe lineage who are also in northern Niger, northern Cameroon, Central African Republic. Nomadic. May be close to Bororo Fulfulde; reported to be a nomadic group of Mbororo. Different from Bagirmi of Chad, which is Nilo-Saharan. Trade language. Survey needed.
FULFULDE, KANO-KATSINA-BORORRO (PEUL, FULBE) [FUV] West, Moyen-Chari Prefecture, near Niellim and elsewhere. Also in Nigeria, Cameroon, Niger, and Central African Republic. Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Atlantic, Northern, Senegambian, Fula-Wolof, Fulani, East Central. Dialects: KANO-KATSINA, BORORRO (BORORO, MBORORO, AKO, NOMADIC FULFULDE). Muslim. Work in progress.
FUR (FOR, FOUR, KONJARA, KONDJARA) [FUR] 1,800 in Chad; 500,000 in Sudan (1983 Bender); 502,000 in all countries. East, Ouaddai Prefecture, scattered colonies in Dar Fongoro. Nilo-Saharan, Fur. Several small groups. Grammar. Muslim.
GABRI (GABERI, GABERE, NGABRE, SOUTHERN GABRI) [GAB] 12,000 (1991 census), including 8,659 Southern Gabri in their 2 principal cantons, about 3,500 in neighboring cantons, and N'Djaména. Southwest Chad, Tandjile and Mayo-Kebbi prefectures, Laï and Bongor subprefectures, northwest of Laie. Southern Gabri is around Dormo and Darbé. Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, East, A, A.2, 2. Dialects: DARBÉ, DORMON. Dormo and Chiri are Gabri villages, erroneously listed as languages in some sources. Traditional religion, Christian. Work in progress.
GADANG [GDK] 3,700 (1993 SIL). Southwest, Chari-Baguirmi Prefecture, Bousso Subprefecture, southeast of Bousso, along the N'Djamena-Sarh road, between Mogo and Mbarlé. Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, East, A, A.1, 1. The majority use Bagirmi as second language.
GIDAR (GUIDAR, GIDDER, KADA, "BAYNAWA") [GID] 11,687 in Chad (1993 census); 65,600 in all countries (1982 SIL). Southwest, Mayo-Kebbi Prefecture, Léré Subprefecture, northwest of Léré in Chad to Guider in Cameroon, at least 25 villages. Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-Mandara, C. NT 1986. Bible portions 1973-1978.
GOUNDO [GOY] Reported to be spoken only by older people. Goundo-Nanagom, Goundo-Bengli, and Goundo-Yilla villages, Kélo Prefecture. Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Adamawa, Mbum-Day, Kim. Younger people are reported to be shifting to Nancere. Survey needed.
GULA (SARA GOULA, SARA GULA, GOULA) [GLU] Southeast, Guera Prefecture, Melfi Subprefecture, northwest of Lake Iro. Not in Sudan or Central African Republic. Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, West, Bongo-Bagirmi, Sara-Bagirmi, Bagirmi. Different from Gula Iro of Chad which is Adamawa. Survey needed.
GULA IRO (GOULA IRO, GOULA D'IRO, KULAAL) [GLJ] 3,500 (1991 SIL), including 2,000 Pongaal, 725 Tiaala, 200 (?) Tiitaal, 350 Patool, 165 Korintal. Southeast, Moyen-Chari and Salamat prefectures, Kyabe and Aboudeia subprefectures. North of Lake Iro, in and around Boum Kabir, northeast of Sarh. Pongaal dialect is in Boum Kabir, Boum Sazer, Madjok, Teonen, and Karou; Tiaala in Masidjanga (Cheroba), Bouni, and Kore; Patool in Badi and Foundouk; Korintal in Cheou (Tieou); Tiitaal in western Salamat Prefecture. Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Adamawa, Mbum-Day, Bua. Dialects: PONGAAL (PONAAL), TIAALA, TIITAAL, PATOOL, KORINTAL. 'Kulaal' is their name for themselves. Different from Gula of Chad and Sudan which is Nilo-Saharan, and from Goula of CAR. Not intelligible with Gula Guera. Bilingualism in Arabic is limited, and there is almost none in Sara. Traditional religion, Muslim, Christian. Survey needed.
GULAY (GOULAI, GOULEI, GULEI, GULAI, GOULAYE) [GVL] 163,271 (1993 census), including 23,500 Pen in 26 villages (1995 Djarangar). Southwest, Moyen-Chari (6 cantons), Logone Oriental (1 canton) and Tandjilé (1 canton) prefectures, between Koumra, Laï, and Doba. Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, West, Bongo-Bagirmi, Sara-Bagirmi, Bagirmi. Dialects: GULAY, PEN (PENI). The Pen do not like to be called Gulay. Sar is the lingua franca. Bible portions 1956. Work in progress.
HERDÉ (KA'DO HERDÉ, HE'DÉ, "KADO") [HED] 20,000 in all countries (1987 UBS) or more. Southwest, Mayo-Kebbi Prefecture, Pala and Léré subprefectures. Around Pala and Lamé. Near the Pevé, west of the Ngueté. Also in Cameroon. Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Masa. Linguistic and sociolinguistic differences make separate literature from Pevé and Ngueté necessary. NT 1980.
JAYA [JYY] 2,200 (1993 census). Central, Guera Prefecture, Bitkine Subprefecture, 50 km. north-northwest of Bitkine. Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, West, Bongo-Bagirmi, Sara-Bagirmi, Bagirmi. 62% lexical similarity with Kenga, 44% with Bilala. Bilingualism testing in Kenga needed. Survey needed.
JONKOR BOURMATAGUIL (DJONKOR BOURMA TAGUIL, DOUGNE, KARAKIR, JEGU) [JEU] 1,500 (1993 SIL). Reduced numerically in he last 25 years. Salamat Prefecture, Abou Deïa Subprefecture, west of Abou Deïa. Originally centered in Bourmataguil village, now centered in Ader-Ader. Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, East, B, B.1, 1. Dialects: DOUGNE, MUSUNYE. A large number of the ethnic group have given up the traditional language for Shuwa Arabic, but in two villages the children still learn Jonkor Bourmataguil. 'Karakir' means 'cave-dewllers in Arabic. The name 'Jegu' has been applied to this language, but Jegu appears to be a dialect of Mogum. Relationship with other Dangla languages needs investigation, especially Toram and Mogum. Survey needed.
KABA (KABBA, KABA DE PAOUA, KABA DE BAIBOKOUM, WESTERN KABA) [KSP] 11,000 in all countries (1971 Welmers). Southwest, Logoné Oriental Prefecture, Goré Subprefecture, southeast of Goré. Also in Central African Republic. Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, West, Bongo-Bagirmi, Sara-Bagirmi, Sara, Sara Proper, Kaba. Different from Kaba Deme, Kaba Na, Kulfa, or Laka (Kabba Laka). Work in progress.
KABA DEME (KABA DEMI, KABA 'DEM, TÀ SÀR-A) [KWG] 40,000 (1993 UBS). Southeast, Moyen-Chari Prefecture, Kyabé Subprefecture, between Sarh and Kyabé. Along the Chari River, Bobé, Hélibongo, Banda, Moussafoyo, Kemata villages. Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, West, Bongo-Bagirmi, Sara-Bagirmi, Sara, Sara Proper, Kaba. Dialects: SIIME, MARA, KURUWER. Different from Kaba, Kaba So, Kaba Na, or Laka (Kabba Laka). Fishermen. Work in progress.
KABA NA (KABA NAR, KABA NAA, NA, DANA) [KWV] 35,000 (1993 UBS) including 5,564 in Bale village, 4,937 in Koskabo, 4,548 in Kyabe. Southeast, Moyen-Chari Prefecture, Kyabé Subprefecture, centered in Kyabé. Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, West, Bongo-Bagirmi, Sara-Bagirmi, Sara, Sara Proper, Kaba. Dialects: DUNJE (DENDJE (DINDJE, DINJE, DENJE, DOUNJE), NA, BANGA (MBANGA), TIE (TIYE). Not the same as Kaba, Kaba Deme, Kaba So, or Laka (Kabba Laka). NT 1988.
KABALAI (KABA-LAI, GABLAI, LAY, LAI, KEB-KAYE) [KVF] 17,885 (1993 census). Southwest Chad, Tandjile Prefecture, Lai Subprefecture; Lai and to the south on the eastern bank of the Logone River. Not in CAR. Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, East, A, A.2, 2. May be intelligible with Gabri. Speakers may be bilingual in Nancere or Lele. Erroneously called 'Sara' or 'Kaba of Lai'. Different from Kaba, Kaba Deme, Kaba Na, Kaba So, and Laka (Kabba Laka). Survey needed.
KAJAKSE (KADJAKSE, KAJESKE, KUJARKE, MINI, KAWA TADIMINI) [CKQ] 10,000 (1983 Bender). East, Ouaddai Prefecture, Am Dam Subprefecture. Around Am Dam, east of the Mubi. Some refugees in Sudan near the border. Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, East, B, B.1, 2. Partially intelligible with Mesmedje and Mubi. Hills. Hunter-gatherers; little livestock; traders: hides. Survey needed.
KANEMBU (KANAMBU, KANEMBOU) [KBL] 67,000 in Chad (1993 Johnstone), including 42,906 in Lac Prefecture (1974 C. Bouquet); 11,000 in Niger (1993 Johnstone); 78,000 in all countries. Northwest, Kanem, Lac, prefectures, and Chari-Baguirmi Prefecture, Massakory Subprefecture, northeast of Lake Chad. Nilo-Saharan, Saharan, Western, Kanuri. Dialects: KARKAWU, MANDO, NGURI. There is a gradual differentiation between dialects of Kanembu and Kanuri. The majority of the people use Arabic as second language. Ethnic groups: Badé (Badde 2,646), Baribu, Chiroa, Diabu, Galabu, Kadjidi (5,638), Kankena, Kanku, Kenguina (1,944), Koubri (Koubouri 2,817), Maguirmi (1,825), Nguiguim (7,233). Muslim, traditional religion. Work in progress.
KANURI, YERWA (KANOURY, KANOURI, BORNU, BORNOUANS, BORNOUAN, AGA, "BARIBARI", "BERIBERI", KOLE, KOLERE, SIRATA) [KPH] 100,000 or more in Chad (1985 Gunnemark and Kenrick); 3,000,000 or more in Nigeria (1985); 56,500 in Cameroon (1982 SIL); 50,000 in Niger (1991); 3,500,000 in all countries (1987 UBS). West, Kanem and Lac prefectures, west and north of Lake Chad. Also in Sudan. Nilo-Saharan, Saharan, Western, Kanuri. Dialects: DAGARA, KAGA (KAGAMA), SUGURTI, LARE, KWAYAM, NJESKO, KABARI (KUVURI), NGAZAR, GUVJA, MAO, TEMAGERI, FADAWA. "Beriberi" is considered a derogatory name. Ajami script is used. Muslim. NT in press (1995). Bible portions 1949.
KARANG (LAKA, LAKKA, KARENG, EASTERN MBUM, LAKKA MBUM, MBUM BAKAL, MZÔAK KÛARÔA) [KZR] 1,000 in Chad (1995 SIL); 10,000 in Cameroon (1982 SIL); 11,000 in all countries. Southwest, Logone Oriental Prefecture, Baibokoum Subprefecture, west of Baibokoum: Loumbogo, Lawtiko I, Lawtiko II, Sarkaluki villages, and possibly another, as well as two Sakpu villages. Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Adamawa, Mbum-Day, Mbum, Central, Karang. Dialects: KARANG, SAKPU, NGOMI, MBERE. Closely related to Nzakambay and Kuo. Different from Laka (Kabba Laka) of Central African Republic and Chad, and from Laka of Nigeria. Traditional religion. Work in progress.
KARANGA (KURUNGA) [KTH] 95,000 (1993 Johnstone). East, Ouaddai and Batha prefectures, Am Dam and Oum Hadjer subprefectures, between Am Dam and Oum Hadjer, south of the Maba. Nilo-Saharan, Maban, Unclassified. Dialects: KARANGA (KURUNGA), KACHMERE (KASHMERE), BAXA (BAKHA), FAALA (FALA, BAKKA), KONYARE, MOOYO (MOYO). 73% lexical similarity with Maba. Survey needed.
KENDEJE (YAALI) [KLF] 1,000 to 2,000 (1995 SIL). East, Ouaddai Prefecture, rural Abéché and Adre subprefectures, north and west of Hadjer Hadid. Nilo-Saharan, Maban, Mabang, Unclassified. Dialects: YAALI, FARANGA. 89% lexical similarity between the dialects with little contact between them. High bilingualism in Maba and Masalit. Muslim. Survey needed.
KENGA (KENGE, KENYA, CENGE, BOKIYO) [KYQ] 30,000 (1993 SIL and census). Central, Guera Prefecture, Bitkine Subprefecture, around Bitkine, 52 villages. Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, West, Bongo-Bagirmi, Sara-Bagirmi, Bagirmi. Dialects: CENGA (TAR CENE), BINANA (BINAMA, TAR BINAMA), BOLONGO, MURBA, BIDJIR, BANALA. The majority of men use Shuwa Arabic as second language. Related to Bilala, Kuka, Medogo, and Jaya, but not inherently intelligible. 62% lexical similarity with Jaya. 1% to 5% literate. Grammar. Typology: SVO. Muslim, Christian. Work in progress.
KERA [KER] 44,523 in Chad (1993 census); 6,000 in Cameroon; 51,000 in all countries. Southwest, Mayo-Kebbi Prefecture, Fianga Subprefecture, south of Fianga, near Lake Tikem. Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, East, A, A.3. 42% lexical similarity with Kwang. It has been confused with neighboring Tupuri in some publications. 1% to 5% literate. Bible portions 1988-1991. Work in progress.
KIBET (KIBEIT, KIBEET, KABEN, KABENTANG) [KIE] 18,500 (1983 Bender) to 22,000 (1977 Voegelin and Voegelin); 10,000 Kibet, 6,000 Daggal, 2,500 Muro. East, Salamat Prefecture, Abou Deïa Subprefecture, or Ouaddai Prefecture, Am Dam Subprefecture, between Mangalme and Goz Beida (location needs checking), 60 villages. Nilo-Saharan, Maban, Mabang, Runga-Kibet. Dialects: DAGEL (DAGGAL), MURRU (MURO, MOURRO), KIBET. The majority are bilingual in Arabic. Closely related to Runga. The dialects listed may be separate languages. The area is flooded for 6 months each year. The tse-tse fly is a problem. Agriculturalists: sorghum, peanuts; animal husbandry; fishermen; hunter-gatherers. Muslim.
KIM [KIA] 15,354 (1993 census). Southwest, Mayo-Kebbi Prefecture, Bongor Subprefecture, Logone River area, southeast of Bangor. Not in CAR. Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Adamawa, Mbum-Day, Kim. Dialects: GARAP (ERE, ERÔE), GEREP (DJOUMAN, JUMAM), KOLOP (KILOP, KOLOBO), KOSOP (KWASAP, KIM). Dialects listed may be closely related languages. Formerly classified as Chadic. Incorrectly called 'Masa'. NT 1955. Bible portions 1948.
KIMRÉ (GABRI-KIMRÉ) [KQP] 15,000 (1990 census), including 700 Tchere-Aiba. Southwest Chad, Tandjile Prefecture, Kelo Subprefecture, east of Lai, including Chiri village. Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, East, A, A.2, 1. Dialects: KIMRUWA (KIM-RUWA), KIMRÉ), BURUWA (BORDO), TCHIRE (TCHERE-AIBA). Popularly called 'Gabri', but it is not intelligible with Gabri. That name is also use for Tobanga and Southern Gabri. Work in progress.
KOKE (KHOKE) [KOU] 600 (1993 SIL and census). Southeast, Guera Prefecture, Melfi Subprefecture, southeast of Melfi; Koya, Dagela, and Rim villages. Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Adamawa, Mbum-Day, Bua. 60% lexical similarity with Bolgo Durag. The majority may be bilingual in Shuwa Arabic or Fania. Survey needed.
KUJARGE [VKJ] 1,000 (1983 Bender). Dar Fongoro, 7 villages near Jebel Mirra, and scattered among the Fur and Sinyar in Sudanese villages along the lower Wadis Salih and Azum rivers. The Daju Galfigé are to the west, Sinyar to the north, Fur-Dalinga, Fongoro, Formono, and Runga to the east and south. Unclassified. A few groups. Fur or some Daju are used as second languages. Hunter-gatherers: honey; little agriculture or animal husbandry. Survey needed.
KUKA (KOUKA, LISI) [KUF] 76,660 (1993 census). Central, Chari-Baguirmi, Bokoro Subprefecture, and Batha Prefecture, Ati Subprefecture, northwest of Lake Fitri. Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, West, Bongo-Bagirmi, Sara-Bagirmi, Bagirmi. Jaya may be a dialect of Kuka and not Kenga; Bilala and Medogo may be dialects of Kuka and not separate languages. The Kuka, Bilala, and Medogo share a common culture. Speakers use Arabic as second language. Muslim.
KULFA (KULFE, KURMI, KURUMI, "KABA SO") [KXJ] Southeast, Moyen Chari Prefecture, Kyabé Subprefecture, southwest of Lake Iro. Centered in Alako, Male, and Moufa. Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, West, Bongo-Bagirmi, Sara-Bagirmi, Sara, Sara Proper, Kaba. Dialects: KURMI, SO (SUKA, SOUKA, SOKO). 80% lexical similarity with Kaba Na. Intelligibility with other Kaba groups and bilingualism in Shuwa Arabic and Sara need testing. Not the same as Kaba, Kaba Deme, Kaba Na, or Laka (Kabba Laka). The name "Kaba So" is considered to be derogatory by the speakers. Survey needed.
KUO (KO, KOH) [KHO] 15,000 or more in all countries (1995 SIL). Southwest, Logone Oriental Prefecture, Baibokoum Subprefecture, near Baibokoum, Pao and Bouroum cantons. The villages are on the north-south road from Pao to Laramanay, on the road northwest from Pao, and on the road northwest from Laramanay to Bouroum. Also in Cameroon. Primarily in Chad. Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Adamawa, Mbum-Day, Mbum, Central, Koh. Closely related to Karang and Nzakambay. 1% to 5% literate. Bible portions 1987. Work in progress.
KWANG (KUANG, KOUANG, KWONG) [KVI] 16,805 (1993 census), including 10,000 or more Kwang, 2,000 Mobou, 250 Aloa. Southwest Chad, Tandjile Prefecture, Lai Subprefecture. North of Lai, east of Bongor, southwest of Bousso. The Mobou are in Mobou, south of Bousso. The Aloa are in Mogo. Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, East, A, A.3. Dialects: KWANG, MOBOU (MOBU), NGAM (GAM, MODGEL), TCHAGIN (TCHAKIN), ALOA, KAWALKÉ, GAYA, MINDÉRA. 42% lexical similarity with Kera. The dialects listed are inherently intelligible to each other's speakers. Includes Midigil village, sometimes erroneously listed as a language named 'Modgel' (Medegel), in some sources. The Aloa are Muslim and fully bilingual in Baguirmi. The Ngam use Sara as second language. Ngam is different from Ngam of Chad and CAR in the Sara group of Nilo-Saharan, and Ndam (Dam) of Chad in the Somrai group of Chadic. Traditional religion, Christian, Muslim. Work in progress.
LAAL (GORI) [GDM] 300 to 500 (1977 Boyeldieu). Damtar village had its own dialect, called 'Laabe' with 3 speakers left in 1977. Southwest, Moyen-Chari Prefecture, Sarh Subprefecture, between Korbol and Dik. Centered in Gori, villages of Gori, Damtar, and Mailao near Kouno, northwest of Sarh. Unclassified. Dialect: LAABE. Some lexical relationship to the Bua group, but Boyeldieu says it should not be classified with Bua. Probably Adamawa, some sources say Chadic. Further study needed. Survey needed.
LAGWAN (KOTOKO-LOGONE, LOGONE, LAGWANE, LAGOUANE, MANDAGE) [KOT] 38,500 in all countries (1982 SIL). West, Chari-Baguirmi Prefecture, N'Djamena Subprefecture, southwest of N'Djaména along the Logone River, in the vicinity of Logone-Gana. Also in Cameroon and Nigeria. Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-Mandara, B, B.1, Kotoko Proper. Dialects: LOGONE-BIRNI, LOGONE-GANA (KOTOKO-GANA). Grammar. A member of the Kotoko ethnic and linguistic group: Afade, Mser, Malgbe, Maslam, Mpade, and Jilbe (in Nigeria). 'Mandage', etc., is applied to the northern Kotoko languages. Muslim.
LAKA (KABBA LAKA) [LAM] 55,143 in 310 villages in Chad (1991 census); 2,050 in Central African Republic (1996); 57,200 in all countries. Southwest, Logone Oriental Prefecture, Baibokoum and Goré subprefectures. Mang is in Ngadjibian Canton, north of Bessao, and in parts of the Békan and Timbéri cantons, Goré Subprefecture. Bémour is in Bessao and Pandzangué cantons south of Moundou. Maïngao is along the Ngamadja-Dodang II axis, and along the Bessao-Oudoumian axis. Goula is in Andoum Canton, and in the area around Pan in Pandzangué Cantonl. Paï is at Oudoumian. Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, West, Bongo-Bagirmi, Sara-Bagirmi, Sara, Sara Proper. Dialects: MANG, BÉMOUR, MAÏNGAO, GOULA, PAÏ. Different from Laka of Nigeria, which is Adamawa-Ubangi, and from Kaba of CAR and Chad. Some consider it to be a dialect of Ngambai. NT 1960. Bible portions 1948-1950.
LELE [LLN] 26,000 (1991 UBS). Southwest Chad, Tandjile Prefecture, Kelo Subprefecture, south of Kelo. Not in Central African Republic. Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, East, A, A.2, 1. Different from Lele of Zaïre and Lele (Kasena) of Ghana and Burkina Faso. NT 1991. Bible portions 1962-1985.
LUTOS [NDY] 1,978 in Chad (1993 census); 17,000 in Central African Republic (1996); 19,000 in all countries. Southwest, Moyen-Chari Prefecture, Maro Subprefecture, south of the Ngam. Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, West, Bongo-Bagirmi, Sara-Bagirmi, Sara, Vale. Dialect: RUTO (ROUTO, RITO, LOUTO, LUTO). Ruto and Nduka dialects are in CAR. Not intelligible with Sar or Ngambai. Survey needed.
MABA (MABANG, MABANGI, MABAN, MABAA, MABAK, BURA MABANG, BORA MABANG, KANA MABANG, OUADDAÏ, OUADDAIEN, WADDAYEN, WADAI, WADAIËNS, BOURGU, BORGU, BORGOTKE) [MDE] 120,000 (1991 SIL). 250,000 to 300,000 including Marfa (1983 Doornbos and Bender). East, Ouaddai Prefecture, Abéché Subprefecture, around and to the southwest of Abéché. Over 200 villages, many with over 500 inhabitants. Nilo-Saharan, Maban, Mabang, Maba. Dialects: BAKHA, ABKAR, KAJANGA (KAJANGAN), KELINGAN, MALANGA, MANDABA (MA NDABA), MANDALA (MA DALA), NYABADAN, KODOÏ, OULED DJEMMA, KUJINGA, DONDONGO, ABU CHARIN (ABU SHARIN). 73% lexical similarity with Karanga and Kachmere, 63% with Marfa. The majority use Shuwa Arabic as second language. Ethnic groups: Abu Sharin (Absharin), Kondongo, Kujinga, Uled Djemma (Aulad Djema, Awlad Djema), Kabga, Ganyanga. Trade language. Mountains. Agriculturalists. Muslim. Work in progress.
MAJERA (MIDAH, MIDA'A, DA'A) [XMJ] (5,000 or fewer in Cameroon; 1984 ALCAM). West, Mayo-Kebbi Prefecture, Bongor Subprefecture, north of Gelengdeng, Dogwea village. Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-Mandara, B, B.1, Jina. Dialects: MAJERA (MAZRA), KAJIRE-'DULO, HWALEM (HOLOM). Included in what the Mandage call 'Mida'a' and 'Da'a'. Speakers may be bilingual in Lagwan or Musgu. Survey needed.
MALGBE (GULFEI, GOULFEI, GOULFEY, SANBALBE, MALBE, MALGWE, NGWALKWE, MANDAGE) [MXF] 36,000 in all countries (1977 Bendor-Samuel). West, Chari-Baguirmi Prefecture, N'Djamena Subprefecture, north of N'Djamena along the Chari River. Douguia, Malalie, and Oulio (Walia) villages, and others. Also in Cameroon. Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-Mandara, B, B.1, Kotoko Proper. Dialects: GOULFEY, WALIA, MARA, DOUGUIA. It appears to be a distinct language. Related to other Kotoko ethnic and linguistic groups: Afade, Lagwan, Maslam, Mpade, Mser, and Jilbe (of Nigeria). 'Mandage' is applied to the northern Kotoko languages. Survey needed.
MAMBAI (MANGBAI, MANGBEI, MANBAI, MAMBAY, MAMGBAY, MAMGBEI, MONGBAY, MONGBAÏ DE BIPARÉ, MOMBOI) [MCS] 2,500 in all countries (1982 SIL). Southwest, Mayo-Kebbi Prefecture, Lere Subprefecture, Cameroon border west of Lere. Also in Cameroon. Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Adamawa, Mbum-Day, Mbum, Northern, Tupuri-Mambai. Speakers are reported to understand Mundang. Survey needed.
MARARIT (MARARET, MERARIT, ABIYI, ABIRI, EBIRI) [MGB] 42,388 including 15,376 Mararit, 27,012 Abou Charib (1993 census). East, Biltine Prefecture, southeast of Biltine, around Am Zoer. None in Sudan. Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Western, Tama, Mararit. Dialect: ABOU CHARIB (ABU SHARIB). The majority of men use Shuwa Arabic as second language. 62% lexical similarity and very difficult intelligibility with Tama. Not intelligible with Sungor. Mountains. Agriculturalists; pastoralists: cattle, camels. Muslim.
MARBA ('AZUMEINA, AZUMEINA, MARABA, KOLONG, KULUNG) [MPG] 124,357 (1993 census). Southwest, Tandjile Prefecture, Kelo Subprefecture, Logone River west of Lai. Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Masa. 'Kulung' is a place in the Marba-speaking area, not a dialect or language. Different from Marfa (Marba) of Chad, which is Maban. Bible in press (1996). NT 1978. Bible portions 1967-1986.
MARFA (MARBA) [MVU] 130,000 to 180,000 (250,000 to 300,000 including Maba; 1983 Doornbos and Bender). East, Ouaddai Prefecture, Abéché Subprefecture, south of Abéché. Nilo-Saharan, Maban, Mabang, Masalit. 63% lexical similarity with Maba, 69% with Karanga. A distinct language from Masalit. The majority speak Shuwa Arabic or Maba as second languages. Different from Marba which is Chadic. Survey needed.
MASALIT (MASSALIT, MASSOLIT, KAANA MASALA, MASARA, MASALE) [MSA] 50,847 in Chad (1993 census); 145,000 in Sudan; 250,000 in all countries (1983 Doornbos and Bender). East, Ouaddai Prefecture, Adre Subprefecture, around Adre. Northern Masalit is north and east of Geneina in Sudan, Western Masalit in Ouaddai, Southern Masalit in Sudan. Nilo-Saharan, Maban, Mabang, Masalit. Dialects: NORTHERN MASALIT, WESTERN MASALIT, SOUTHERN MASALIT. 36% lexical similarity with Karanga, 42% with Maba, 45% with Marfa. The majority use Shuwa Arabic as second language. Below 5% literate. Muslim. Work in progress.
MASANA (MASA, MASSA, "BANANA") [MCN] 109,093 in Chad (1993 census); 103,000 in Cameroon; 212,000 in both countries. Southwest, Mayo-Kebbi Prefecture, Bongo Subprefecture, along the Logone River, Bongor region. Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Masa. Dialects: YAGWA (YAGOUA), BONGOR, WINA (VIRI), WALIA (WALYA), DOMO, GIZAY (GUISSEY, GISEY), BUGUDUM (BUDUGUM), GUMAY (GOUMAYE), HAM. All dialects understand Yagoua well, although Gizay and Yagoua have 80% intelligibility. "Banana" has been used perjoratively by some neighboring groups. Dictionary. Traditional religion, Christian, Muslim. NT 1950-1955. Bible portions 1934-1985.
MASLAM (MANDAGE, MENDAGE, MANDAGUÉ) [MSV] Possibly only a few hundred in Chad (1995); 5,000 or fewer in Cameroon (1984 ALCAM). West, Chari-Baguirmi Prefecture, N'Djamena Subprefecture. North of N'Djamena, along the Chari River. Maltam is in Miskini and Blabli villages, Sao in Farcha-Milezi and Ngara-Mandju (or 'Gourmadjo') villages. Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-Mandara, B, B.1, Kotoko Proper. Dialects: MASLAM (MALTAM), SAO (SAHU). In the Kotoko ethnic and linguistic group. Closest to Afade. 'Mandage', etc., is applied to the northern Kotoko languages. Survey needed.
MASMAJE (MASMADJE, MESMEDJE) [MES] 25,727 (1993 census). Central, Batha Prefecture, Oum Hadjer Subprefecture, southwest of Oum Hadjer, north of the Mubi. Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, East, B, B.1, 2. Arabicized and Islamicized. Survey needed.
MASSALAT [MDG] 10 speakers or fewer (1991 R. Blench), out of an ethnic group of 23,000 (1967 J. Bendor-Samuel SIL). East, Batha Prefecture, Oum Hadjer Subprefecture, west of Abéché. Nilo-Saharan, Maban, Mabang, Masalit. Some classify it in the Maban group. Nearly all now speak Chadic Arabic. Muslim. Nearly extinct.
MAWA (MAHWA, MAHOUA) [MCW] 5,000 (1993 SIL and census). Central, Guéra Prefecture, Bitkine Subprefecture, about 30 km. south of Bitkine, centered around the village of Mahoua. Southeast of the Mokulu. Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, East, B, B.1, 1. 48% lexical similarity with Ubi. 'Gurara' and 'Roffono' ('Reupan') are villages, whose speech is hardly different from that of Mahoua. The majority use Shuwa Arabic as second language, some use Kenga.
MBAI (SARA MBAI, MOISSALA MBAI, MBAY MOISSALA) [MYB] 100,000 in all countries (1981 UBS); 8,300 in CAR (1996). Southwest, Moyen-Chari Prefecture, Moissala Subprefecture. Around Moissala. The traditional area is on the border of Chad and Central African Republic. A few in Nigeria. Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, West, Bongo-Bagirmi, Sara-Bagirmi, Sara, Sara Proper. Dialects: BÉDJOU, KAN (MBAY-KAN), NGOKA (MBANG), BÉDÉGUÉ, MOUGO, BBATE. Traditional religion, Christian, Muslim. Bible 1980. NT 1943. Bible portions 1932.
MBARA (MASSA DE GUELENGDENG, GUELENGDENG, G'KELENDENG, G'KELENDEG) [MPK] 1,000 or fewer (1980 Tourneux). East, Chari-Baguirmi Prefecture, Massenya Subprefecture, and Mayo-Kebbi Prefecture, Bongor Subprefecture, along the Chari River, around Gelengdeng. Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-Mandara, B, B.2. Survey needed.
MEDOGO (MODOGO, MUD) [MNE] 19,159 (1993 census). Central, Batha Prefecture, Ati Subprefecture, southwest of Ati. Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, West, Bongo-Bagirmi, Sara-Bagirmi, Bagirmi. Closely related to Bilala and Kuka, and related to Kenga, but not inherently intelligible with them. The majority use Shuwa Arabic as second language. Muslim.
MESME (ZIME, DJIME, DJIWE) [ZIM] 20,120 (1993 census). Southwest, Tandjilé Prefecture, Kélo Subprefecture, south and west of Kélo, between Kelo and Pala. Not in Cameroon. Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Masa. Dialects: BERO, ZAMRE. Mesme is a separate but related language to Pévé, Ngueté and Herdé. They call themselves 'Zime', but that name is commonly used by outsiders to refer to all languages and dialects of this group. The name 'Mesme' is used by outsiders to distinguish this group from the other groups they call 'Zime'. NT in press (1996). Bible portions 1991.
MIGAAMA (MIGAMA, JONGOR, DJONKOR, DIONKOR, DYONGOR, DJONKOR ABOU TELFANE) [MMY] 23,000 (1991 census). Central, Guera Prefecture, Mongo Subprefecture, east of Mongo, centered in Baro, around Abu Telfan. Migaama dialect is in Baro, Doga in Fityari, Gamiya in Game and Julkulkili, and Dambiya in Mala. Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, East, B, B.1. Dialects: MIGAAMA, DOGA, GAMIYA, DAMBIYA (NDAMBIYA). Dialect cluster. The majority use Shuwa Arabic as second language, although at a low proficiency level. Muslim. Bible portions. Work in progress.
MILTU (MILTOU) [MLJ] 272 (1993 census). Southwest, Chari-Baguirmi Prefecture, Bousso Subprefecture, and Moyen-Chari Prefecture, Sarh Subprefecture, around the town of Miltou. Boor dialect is in Dumraw (Bwara) village on the north bank of the Chari River. Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, East, A, A.1, 2. Dialects: MILTOU, BOOR. 27% lexical similarity with Sarua, Somrai, Gadang, and Ndam. The dialects are inherently to each others' speakers. Speakers are shifting to Bagirmi in all domains. Survey needed.
MIMI (MIME) [MIV] 5,000 speakers out of an ethnic group of 50,000 (1983 Bender). Eastern, north of Biltine, near Jebels Batran and Agán, and scattered through Wadai. Possibly in Sudan, in Dar Fur. Nilo-Saharan, Maban, Mimi. Mimi of Gaudefroy and Mimi of Nachtigal may be separate languages (Bender 1983). Most people are bilingual in Shuwa Arabic. Mountains, plains. Pastoralists; agriculturalists. Muslim.
MIRE [MVH] 1,400 (1990 census). Southwest, Tandjile Prefecture, Lai Subprefecture, between the Ndam and the Kimré language areas. Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, East, A, A.1, 1. 65% lexical similarity with Ndam, 32% with Kimré. Most speakers use Kimré or Ndam as second language. Traditional religion, Christian. Survey needed.
MOGUM (MOGOUM) [MOU] 6,000 (1971 Welmers); 1,000 in Koffa, 3,500 in Mogum Abu Deia, 1,750 in Mogum Melfi (1977 Voegelin and Voegelin). Central, Guera Prefecture, Bitkine, Melfi, and Mongo subprefectures, south of the Bidiyo. Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, East, B, B.1, 1. Dialects: JEGU, KOFFA (KOFA), MOGUM DÉLE, MOGUM DIGUIMI, MOGUM URMI. Dialect cluster. Dialects listed are inherently intelligible with each other, above 96% lexical similarity. Mogum Diguimi may be another dialect.
MOKULU (MUKULU, MOKOULOU, DJONKOR GUERA, DYONGOR GUERA, DIONGOR GUERA, JONKOR-GERA, MOKILKO) [MOZ] 12,000 (1990 SIL). Central, Guera Prefecture, Bitkine Subprefecture, at the foot of the Massif of Guera, Moukoulou, Seguine, Doli, Morgue, Djarkatche (Mezimi), and Gougue villages. Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, East, B, B.2. Dialects: MOKILKO, SEGINKI, DOLIKI, MORIKO, MEZIMKO, GUGIKO. Dialects are inherently intelligible with each other. Bilingualism in Arabic is limited. Below 5% literate. Traditional religion, some Christian, Muslim. Work in progress.
MONOGOY [MCU] Southwest, Tandjile Prefecture, Kelo Subprefecture, northwest of Kelo. Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Masa. May be a dialect of Marba. Survey needed.
MPADE (MAKARI, MENDAGE, MANDAGE, MANDAGUÉ) [MPI] 12,000 in all countries (1992 SIL). West, Chari-Baguirmi Prefecture, N'Djamena Subprefecture, south of Lake Chad, in and around Mani on the Logone River, north of N'Djamena. Also in Cameroon and Nigeria. Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-Mandara, B, B.1, Kotoko Proper. Dialects: MAKARI, SHOE (SHAWE, CHAOUE, MANI), BODO, WOULKI, DIGAM. In the Kotoko ethnic and linguistic group. 'Mandage', etc., is applied to the Northern Kotoko languages.
MSER (KOTOKO-KUSERI, KUSERI, KOUSSERI) [KQX] 2,100 in all countries (1982 SIL). West, Chari-Baguirmi Prefecture, N'Djamena Subprefecture, border near N'Djamena. Also in Cameroon. Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-Mandara, B, B.1, Kotoko Proper. Dialects: MSER (KOUSSERI, MSIR), KALO (KALAKAFRA), GAWI, HOULOUF, KABE. The majority are bilingual in Shuwa Arabic. The people of Klesem no longer speak Mser. Related to other Kotoko ethnic and linguistic groups: Afade, Lagwan, Malgbe, Maslam, Mpade, and Jilbe (of Nigeria). Muslim. Survey needed.
MUBI (MOUBI, MONJUL) [MUB] 23,000 (1971 Fedry) to 36,000 (1971 Welmers). Central, Guera Prefecture, Mangalme Subprefecture, east of Mongo, centered in and around Mangalme. 135 villages. There may be some in Sudan. Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, East, B, B.1, 2. Different from Mubi (Gude) of Cameroon and Nigeria. The majority use Arabic as second language. Muslim.
MUNDANG (MOUNDAN, MOUNDANG, KAELE, NDA) [MUA] 160,000 in Chad (1993 census); 44,700 in Cameroon (1982 SIL); 205,000 in all countries. Southwest, Mayo-Kebbi Prefecture, Léré, Pala, and Fianga subprefectures, centered around Léré. The Kieziere subdialect is on the border with Pévé. The Torrock-Kaélé subdialect is in Torrock and in Kaélé Cameroon. Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Adamawa, Mbum-Day, Mbum, Northern, Tupuri-Mambai. Dialects: KABI, ZASING (YASING). A subdialect of Kabi is Kiziere, of Zasing is Torrock-Kaélé. Bible 1983. NT 1948-1956. Bible portions 1933-1941.
MUSEY (MOUSSEI, MUSEI, MUSSOI, MOUSSEY, MUSSOY, MOSI, BANANNA, BANANNA HO HO, MUSEYNA) [MSE] 100,000 in Chad; 20,000 in Cameroon; 120,000 in all countries (1986 R. Duncanson EFL). Southwest, Mayo-Kebbi Prefecture, Fiang and Gounou Gaya subprefectures, and Tandjile Prefecture, Kelo Subprefecture, southeast of Fianga. Gounou Gaya is the commercial and administrative center. Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Masa. Dialects: BONGOR-JODO-TAGAL-BEREM-GUNU, PE-HOLOM-GAMÉ, JARAW-DOMO, LEW. Some intelligibility with Masa. Marba (Azumeina) is closest linguistically. The Lew dialect is closest to Marba. All dialects are intelligible with each other. Dialect names are village names. The Pe dialect is in Cameroon. Kera and other nearby groups are bilingual in Mosi. Levels of bilingualism in French are 0:0%, 1:20%, 2:30%, 3:30%, 4:19%, 5:1%. Traditional religion. NT 1996. Bible portions 1967-1986.
MUSGU (MOUSGOU, MUSGUM, MOUSGOUM, MUSUK, MOUSGOUN, MUNJUK, MOULOUI, MULWI) [MUG] 75,000 in all countries (1972 Nida); 61,500 in Cameroon (1982 SIL). West Chad, Mayo-Kebbi Prefecture, Bongor Subprefecture, and Chari-Baguirmi Prefecture, Ndjaména Subprefecture. Between the Chari and Logone rivers, west of Gelengdeng. Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-Mandara, B, B.2. Dialects: MPUS (PUS, POUSS, MOUSGOUM DE POUSS, MUSGUM-POUSS), BEEGE (JAFGA), VULUM (VLUM, MULWI-MOGROUM), MUZUK (MOUSGOUM DE GUIRVIDIG, MOUSGOUM DE GUIRVIDIK, GUIRVIDIG). Their name for themselves is 'Mulwi'. The Vulum dialect is mainly in Chad. Distinct from the Muskum language in Mouskoun village. NT 1964.
MUSKUM (MUZGUM) [MJE] West, Mayo-Kebbi Prefecture, Bongor Subprefecture. Along the Logone River, west of Gelengdeng, village of Muskum (Mouskoun), 10 km. north of Katoa. Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-Mandara, B, B.2. A separate language from Musgu (H. Tourneux 1982). There was 1 speaker in 1976. 40% lexical similarity with Musgu. Because of intermarriage, speakers eventually shifted to the Vulum dialect of Musgu. Extinct.
NANCERE (NANJERI, NANCHERE, NANTCERE, NANGJERE, NANGCERE) [NNC] 71,609 (1993 census). Southwest, Logone District, around Lai. Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, East, A, A.2, 1. Traditional religion, Christian. Bible 1986. NT 1956. Bible portions 1947-1949.
NDAM (DAM, NDAMM) [NDM] 6,500 (1990 census). Equidistant northwest of Sarh, northeast of Lai, and southeast of Bousso in southwest Chad. Not in CAR. Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, East, A, A.1, 1. Dialects: NDAM-NDAM (SOUTHERN NDAM), NDAM DIK (NORTHERN NDAM). Distinct from Ngam of Chad and CAR. Traditional religion (primarily), Muslim, Christian. Work in progress.
NGAM (NGAMA, SARNGAM) [NMC] 60,000 in all countries (1993 UBS); 17,700 in CAR (1996). Southwestern Chad, Moyen-Chari Prefecture, Maro Subprefecture, centered in Maro. Ngam Tel is in Maro Canton and Moussafoyo. Ngam Tira is at Maro, Moyo, and Danamadji. Kon Ngam is in Djéké Canton. Kle is at Nara in Djéké Canton. Ngam Gir Bor is in Kabo in Central African Republic. Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, West, Bongo-Bagirmi, Sara-Bagirmi, Sara, Sara Proper. Dialects: NGAM TEL, NGAM TIRA, KON NGAM, KLE, NGAM GIR BOR. Sar is the lingua franca. Distinct from Ndam of Chad. Work in progress.
NGAMBAY (SARA, SARA NGAMBAI, GAMBA, GAMBAYE, GAMBLAI, NGAMBAI) [SBA] 600,000 in all countries (1991 UBS). Southwest, Logone Oriental and Logone Occidental prefectures, centered in and around Moundou. A few in Cameroon and Nigeria. Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, West, Bongo-Bagirmi, Sara-Bagirmi, Sara, Sara Proper. Dialects: LARA, BENOYE, MURUM, KERE, BEMAR (DABA DE GORÉ). Largest language of the Sara-Bagirmi group in Chad. The dialects are reported to be completely intelligible with each other. Trade language. Traditional religion, Christian, Muslim. Bible 1993. NT 1954-1968. Bible portions 1936-1990.
NGETE (NGUETÉ, NGUETTÉ, NGE'DÉ, KA'DO NGUETÉ) [NNN] 10,000 (1991 UBS). Mayo-Kebbi Prefecture, Pala Subprefecture, near the Pevé, east of the Herdé, east of Pala around Nguetté village. Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Masa. Linguistic and sociolinguistic differences with Pevé and Herdé make separate literature necessary. Also close to Marba. The term 'Zime' is used by outsiders to refer to this and related languages: Herdé, Pévé, Mesme. Work in progress.
NIELLIM (MJILLEM, NYILEM, NIELIM, LUA) [NIE] 5,157 (1993 census), including 1,000 in the city of Sarh, and 400 in Niou dialect. Southwest, Moyen-Chari Prefecture, Sarh Subprefecture, around Niellim town, on the southwest bank of the Chari River. Niou dialect is in Niou on the northeast bank. Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Adamawa, Mbum-Day, Bua. Dialects: NIELLIM, TCHINI (CUNI, CINI), NIOU. The government calls them 'Niellim'. Their own name is 'Lua'. Tchini dialect is extinct. Traditional religion.
NOY (LOO) [NOY] 36 (1993 census). Southern, Moyen-Chari Prefecture, Sarh and Koumra subprefectures, Sarh, Djoli, Bedaya, Koumra, and Koumogo villages. Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Adamawa, Mbum-Day, Bua. Boyd (1989) indicates speakers are shifting to Sar. Nearly extinct.
NZAKMBAY (NZAK MBAI, NZAKA MBAY, MBAI, MBUM) [NZY] Southwest, Logone Oriental Prefecture, Baibokoum Subprefecture, Cameroon border, near Baibokoum. Zoli is in the Monts de Lam area. Also in Cameroon, but mainly in Chad. Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Adamawa, Mbum-Day, Mbum, Central. Dialects: NZAKAMBAY, ZOLI. Closely related to Karang and Kuo. Different from Mbai, which is Nilo-Saharan. Dictionary. Traditional religion. NT 1968-1994.
PANA (PANI) [PNZ] (82,000 in CAR; 1996). The Pana dialect is in Makele village, and the Gonge dialect in Giriwon and Diahoke villages. Mainly in Central African Republic. Some are in urban areas in Cameroon and Nigeria. Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Adamawa, Mbum-Day, Mbum, Central, Karang. Dialects: PANA, GONGE. Bible portions 1953.
PEVÉ (KA'DO PEVÉ, LAMÉ, "KADO") [LME] 20,000 in Chad (1991 UBS); 3,000 to 5,000 in Cameroon (1982 SIL); 23,000 to 25,000 in all countries. Southwest near the Cameroon border, Mayo-Kebbi Prefecture, Pala and Léré subprefectures. Lamé is the largest village, home of the Chef de Canton, and administrative center. Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Masa. Dialects: LAMÉ, DOE, DARI. Related to Herdé and Ngueté, but phonology and grammar differences and ethnic attitudes make separate literature necessary. Different from Lame of Nigeria. 'Zime' is used by outsiders to refer to Herdé, Ngeté, Pévé, and Mesme. NT 1986. Bible portions 1983.
RUNGA (ROUNGA, ROUNGO, AIKI, AYKI, AYKINDANG) [ROU] 21,479 in Chad (1993 census); 21,500 in CAR (1996); 43,000 in all countries. Southeast, Salamat Prefecture, Haraze-Mangueigne Subprefecture, and Ouaddai Prefecture, Goz-Beida Subprefecture, along the border of CAR. Nilo-Saharan, Maban, Mabang, Runga-Kibet. Runga and Aiki may be separate languages. The majority of the men probably use Arabic as second language. The area is flooded for 6 months each year. The tse-tse fly is a problem. Agriculturalists: sorghum; hunter-gatherers; fishermen. Traditional religion, Muslim.
SABA (JELKUNG) [SAA] 2,000 (1981 Jungraithmayr). Central, Guera Prefecture, Melfi Subprefecture, northeast of Melfi. Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, East, B, B.3. Shuwa Arabic is the second language of speakers, but with low proficiency. Muslim. Survey needed.
SANGO (SANGHO) [SAJ] (4,900,000 in all countries, including second language speakers; 1995 UBS). Southern Chad. Also Zaïre, Central African Republic. Creole, Ngbandi based. A trade language derived from Ngbandi, with decreasing usage in Chad. Probably no mother tongue speakers in Chad. Trade language. Bible 1966. NT 1935-1993. Bible portions 1927-1993.
SAR (SARA, SARA MADJINGAY) [MWM] 183,471 (1993 census) including 74,670 Madjingay (1964), 16,260 No (1964), 32,000 Nar (1977). Southwest, Moyen-Chari prefecture, Sarh, Koumra, and Moïssala subprefectures, in and around Sarh, Koumra, Balimba, Bessada, Bedaya, Djoli, Matekaga, and Koumogo cantons. Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, West, Bongo-Bagirmi, Sara-Bagirmi, Sara, Sara Proper. Dialects: MAJINGAI (MAJINNGAY, MADJINGAYE, MADJINGAY, MADJA NGAI), NAR, NO. The principal language of Sarh. Trade language for neighboring groups. Traditional religion, Christian, Muslim. NT 1972-1986. Bible portions 1950.
SARUA (SARWA, SAROUA) [SWY] 1,503 (1993 census). Southwest, Chari-Baguirmi Prefecture, Bousso Subprefecture, between Bousso and Miltou, along the Chari River. None in Cameroon. Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, East, A, A.1. 42% lexical similarity with Gadang, 27% with Miltu. The majority use Bagirmi as second language. Different from Sharwa in Cameroon. Muslim.
SINYAR (SINYA, SHEMYA, SHAMYA, ZIMIRRA, SYMIARTA, TAAR SHAMYAN) [SYS] 5,000 to 10,000 in all countries (1983 Bender). East, Ouaddai Prefecture, Goz-Beida Subprefecture, north of Mongororo, near the confluence of the Kaja, Azum, and Salih rivers. Also in Sudan. Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, West, Bongo-Bagirmi, Sinyar. People are generally trilingual in Sinyar, Fur, and Shuwa Arabic. Many speak Daju or Masalit. The language is not dying out. They are culturally Fur. Little education. It is geographically cut off from languages of the Bongo-Bagirmi group. Agriculturalists: grain; little livestock. Muslim.
SOKORO [SOK] 5,000 (1994 SIL). Central, Guera Prefecture, Melfi Subprefecture, northwest of Melfi, from Gogmi to Badanga. Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, East, B, B.3. Dialects: SOKORO, BEDANGA, TAMKI. Closely related languages: Saba, Barein. The majority of the men use Arabic as second language. A group called the 'Tunjur of Melfi' in the area around Djebren may have spoken a now extinct dialect of Sokoro are reported to mainly speak Arabic now. Muslim. Work in progress.
SOMRAI (SOUNRAI, SOMREI, SOMRE, SOUMRAY, SOUMRAI, SUMRAI, SIBINE) [SOR] 7,414 (1993 census). Southwest Chad, Tandjile Prefecture, Lai Subprefecture, northeast of Lai, centered at Domogou. Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, East, A, A.1, 1. Not intelligible with any other language. 47% lexical similarity with Ndam, 39% with Sarua, 35% with Gadang, 33% with Tumak, 28% with Miltu. Speakers are not bilingual. They call themselves 'Sabine'. Traditional religion, Christian, Muslim. Work in progress.
SUNGOR (SOUNGOR, ASSOUNGOR, AZANGURI, ASONG, ASSANGORI, ASUNGORE, BOGNAK-ASUNGORUNG, MADUNGORE, SHAALE) [SUN] 23,500 in Chad, 15,000 in Sudan; 38,500 in all countries. East, Ouaddai Prefecture, Adre Subprefecture, south of Guereda, north of the Masalit. Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Western, Tama, Tama-Sungor. Dialects: SUNGOR, WALAD DULLA, GIRGA. 90% lexical similarity with Tama; intelligibility testing needed. The majority use Shuwa Arabic as second language, although at a low proficiency level. Muslim. Survey needed.
SURBAKHAL (SOURBAKHAL) [SBJ] 5,000 to 7,000 (1993 SIL). East, Ouaddai Prefecture, Adre Subprefecture, between Hadjer Hadid and Alacha. Nilo-Saharan, Maban, Mabang, Unclassified. 74% lexical similarity with Masalit. The majority use Maba and Masalit as second languages. Muslim. Survey needed.
TAMA (TAMONGOBO, TAMOK, TAMOT) [TMA] 63,000 (1993 census). Eastern, Biltine Prefecture, Guereda and Iriba subprefectures, around Guereda. Gimr dialect is east of the Tama. Jabaal dialect is east of Abéché, west of Jabal Muun in Sudan, centered in Sali'a. Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Western, Tama, Tama-Sungor. Dialects: TAMA, GIMR (ORRA, QIMR, HAURA), JABAAL (MILEERE, MISSIRII, MILRI). 90% to 95% lexical similarity with Sungor. The majority use Shuwa Arabic as second language, although at a low proficiency level. The Gimr now speak Shuwa Arabic as mother tongue. Muslim.
TEDA (TEDAGA, TODA, TODAGA, TODGA, TUDA, TUDAGA, TUBU, TEBU, TEBOU, TIBBU, TOUBOU) [TUQ] 28,501 in Chad (1993 census); 2,000 in Libya (1954 Lebeuf); 40,000 in Niger (1991); 2,000 or fewer in Nigeria (1990 Blench); 72,500 in all countries. Far northern desert, B.E.T. Prefecture, primarily in the Tibesti Subprefecture around Bardai. Nilo-Saharan, Saharan, Western, Tebu. Dialects: AZA, TEDA. 67% lexical similarity with Daza. Many separate groups. The majority use Daza as a second language, although at a low proficiency level. Some bilingualism in Shuwa Arabic. Semi-nomadic. Well diggers; pastoralists: camels; warriors (Tubu). Muslim. Work in progress.
TOBANGA (GABRI-NORTH, NORTHERN GABRI, GABRI) [TNG] 18,000 (1991 census). Southwest Chad,Tandjilé Prefecture, Laï Subprefecture, around Deressia. Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, East, A, A.2, 2. A separate language from Gabri (Southern Gabri). Traditional religion, Christian. NT 1978. Bible portions 1975.
TORAM (TOROM, TORUM) [TRJ] 4,000 (1971 Fedry). Central Chad, Salamat Prefecture, Abou Deia Subprefecture, southeast of Abou Deia, south of the Birgit, in and west of Ter. Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, East, B, B.1. A separate language from other Dangla languages. Speakers seem to be shifting to Shuwa Arabic. Muslim. Survey needed.
TUMAK (TOUMAK, TUMMOK, TUMAC, DIJE, SARA TOUMAK) [TMC] 25,249 (1993 census). Southwest, Moyen-Chari Prefecture, Koumra Subprefectue, and Tandjile Prefecture, Laï Subprefecture, southwest of Niellim, around Goundi. Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, East, A, A.1, 1. Dialects: TUMAK, MOTUN (MAWER, MODEN, MODIN, MOD, MOT, MOTIN). Erroneously called 'Sara Toumak'. 90% inherent intelligibility between Motun and Tumak. Attitudes toward Tumak by Motun speakers need evaluation. Most Motun speak Sara as second language, but with low proficiency. Dictionary. NT 1988.
TUNIA (TOUNIA, TUNYA, TUN) [TUG] 2,255 (1993 census). South, Moyen-Chari Prefecture, Sarh Subprefecture, in Sarh and about three small villages north of Sarh. Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Adamawa, Mbum-Day, Bua. Dialects: TUNYA, PERIM. The Perim dialect is extinct. Not intelligible with other Bua languages. 25% are bilingual in Niellim, others in Sara (the majority, but with low proficiency), Shuwa Arabic, or French. Christian, Muslim, traditional religion.
TUPURI (TUBURI, TOUBOURI, NDORE, TOUPOURI, NDORE) [TUI] 90,785 in Chad (1993 census); 125,000 in Cameroon; 216,000 in all countries. Southwest, Mayo-Kebbi Prefecture, Fianga Subprefecture, around Fianga. Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Adamawa, Mbum-Day, Mbum, Northern, Tupuri-Mambai. Dialects: BANG-LING, BANG-WERE, FAALE-PIYEW, PODOKGE, BANG-GO, KAELE, MATA. The first 4 dialects listed are spoken in Chad. Dictionary. NT 1988.
UBI (OUBI) [UBI] 1,100 (1995 SIL). Central, Guera Prefecture, Mongo Subprefecture, southwest of Tounkoul. Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, East, B, B.1, 1. 48% lexical similarity with Mawa. Survey needed.
ZAGHAWA (SOGHAUA, ZEGGAOUA, ZAGAOUA, ZORHAUA, ZAGAWA, ZEGHAWA, BERRI, BERI-AA, BERIA, BERI, MERIDA, KEBADI, KUYUK, ZAUGE) [ZAG] 17,500 in Chad; 102,000 in Sudan (1982); 35,000 in Niger (1991); 7,000 in Libya (1993); 161,500 in all countries. East, Biltine Prefecture, Iriba and Guéréda subprefectures, and B.E.T. Prefectures, Ennedi Subprefecture. Nilo-Saharan, Saharan, Eastern. Dialects: TUER-GALA, KOBE-KAPKA, DIRONG-GURUF. The majority use Arabic as second language. The dialects may be spoken on different hills. Bideyat is not a dialect. Bideyat and Zaghawa are sometimes called 'Beria' (Beri). Muslim.
ZAN GULA (GULA GUERA, MORIIL) [ZNA] 3,200 (1993 SIL and census). Southeast, Guera Prefecture, Melfi Subprefecture, north of Lake Iro, around and to the northwest of Zan. Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Adamawa, Mbum-Day, Bua. Dialects: ZAN, CHINGUIL. 46% lexical similarity with Bon Gula. The majority use Shuwa Arabic as second language. Together with Bon Gula called 'Gula Guera'. The Gula Iro call the two groups 'Moriil'.
Part of the Ethnologue, 13th Edition, Barbara F. Grimes, Editor.
Copyright © 1996, Summer Institute of Linguistics, Inc. All rights reserved.
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