Languages of Democratic Republic of Congo
See
language map.
[See also
SIL publications on the languages of Democratic Republic of
Congo.]
Democratic Republic of the Congo, DRC. Formerly Belgian Congo, Congo-Leopoldville, Congo-Kinshasa, Republic of Zaïre. National or official languages: Kongo, Lingala, Luba-Kasai, Congo Swahili, French. 49,139,000 (1998 UN). Literacy rate 55% to 61%. Also includes Fanagolo, Greek, people from India. Information mainly from Y. Bastin 1978; K.S. Olson 1996; John Bendor-Samuel 1989; SIL 1977-1999. Christian, traditional religion, Muslim. Blind population 73,000 (1982 WCE). Deaf institutions: 12 (CMD). Data accuracy estimate: B. The number of languages listed for Democratic Republic of Congo is 219. Of those, 218 are living languages and 1 is extinct. Diversity index 0.92.
| ALUR | [ALZ]
500,000 in DRC (1991 UBS). Population total both
countries 920,000. Alternate names: LUR, ALORO,
ALUA, ALULU, LURI, DHO ALUR, JO ALUR.
Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic,
Nilotic, Western, Luo, Southern, Luo-Acholi,
Alur-Acholi, Alur. More information. |
| AMBA | [RWM] 4,500
in DRC (1991 SIL). Nord-Kivu Province, Uganda border
area south of Lake Albert, northern foothills of
Ruwenzori. Alternate names: KWAMBA, KUAMBA,
RWAMBA, HAMBO, RUWENZORI KIBIRA, HUMU, KIHUMU.
Dialects: KIGUMU (KUAMBA, HAMBA, LUBULEBULE),
KIHYANZI, KUSUWA. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Bira-Huku (D.30).
More information. |
| ASOA | [ASV]
Orientale Province, Rungu Territory, Ituri Forest,
among Mangbetu groups Maele, Meje, Aberu, and Popoi.
Alternate names: ASUA, ASUATI, ASUAE, AKA.
Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, East,
Mangbetu. More information. |
| AUSHI | [AUH] Haut
Katanga Province to the east of Lumbumbashi.
Alternate names: AVAUSHI, VOUAOUSI, USHI, USI,
UZHILI. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, M, Bemba (M.40). More information. |
| AVOKAYA | [AVU] 25,000
in DRC, including 2,000 Ojila, 10,000 Northern Ogambi
(1989 SIL). Population total both countries 40,000.
Alternate names: ABUKEIA, AVUKAYA. Dialects:
OJILA, AJIGU (AJUGU), NORTHERN OGAMBI, AVOKAYA PUR.
Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, East,
Moru-Madi, Central. More information. |
| BABANGO | [BBM]
Orientale Province, Basoko Territory. Alternate
names: MOBANGO. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Bangi-Ntomba
(C.40), Lusengo. More information. |
| BAKA | [BDH] 1,300
in DRC (1993 UBS). Orientale Province, between Garamba
National Park and Sudan border. A few among the Logo.
Alternate names: TARA BAAKA. Classification:
Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, West, Bongo-Bagirmi,
Bongo-Baka, Baka. More information. |
| BALI | [BCP] 42,000
(1987 UBS) to 50,000 (1988 Huddleston PBT). Orientale
Province, Tshopo District, Bafwasende Territory, between
the Tshopo River to the south and the Ituri River to the
north, and on the north bank of the Ituri River.
Alternate names: KIBALI, KIBAALI, BAALI, KIBALA,
LIBAALI, DHIBALI. Dialects: BEMILI, BAKUNDUMU,
BAFWANDAKA, BEKENI. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Lega-Kalanga
(D.20). More information. |
| BALOI | [BIZ]
Equateur Province, south, west, and east of Bomongo.
Alternate names: LOI, BOLOI, BAATO BALOI, REBU.
Dialects: LOI, DZAMBA (JAMBA), MAKUTU, MAMPOKO.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Northwest, C, Bangi-Ntomba (C.40), Ngiri. More information. |
| BAMWE | [BMG] 20,000
(1983 census). Equateur Province, Sud Ubangi, Kungu
Territory, in Mwanda Collectivité, upper reaches of
Ngiri River between the villages of Limpoko and Sombe,
including villages of Moniongo, Libobi, Likata,
Mondongo, Lifunga, Bomole, Lokutu, Botunia; 10 villages.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Northwest, C, Bangi-Ntomba (C.40). More information. |
| BANDA, MID-SOUTHERN | [BJO] 2,000
in DRC (1986 SIL). Equateur Province, Bosobolo
Territory in a few villages north of Dubulu, and Mobaye
Territory. Dialects: YAKPA (YACOUA, YAKPWA,
YAKWA, BAYAKA). Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi,
Ubangi, Banda, Central, Central Core, Mid-Southern. More information. |
| BANDA, SOUTH CENTRAL | [LNL] 3,000
in DRC. Equateur Province. Dialects: NGBUGU
(NGUBU, NGBOUGOU). Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi,
Ubangi, Banda, South Central. More information. |
| BANDA, TOGBO-VARA | [TOR] 12,000
in DRC (1984 census). Population total all countries
24,000 or more. Dialects: TOGBO (TOHGBOH,
TAGBO). Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi,
Ubangi, Banda, Central, Central Core, Togbo-Vara. More information. |
| BANGALA | [BXG] Used
by 3,500,000 as second language (1991 UBS). Orientale
Province. Alternate names: NGALA.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Northwest, C, Bangi-Ntomba (C.40), Lusengo. More information. |
| BANGBA | [BBE] 11,000
(1993 SIL). Orientale Province, Kopa Collectivité of
the Niangara Territory, and the area around Tora in the
Watsa Territory. Alternate names: ABANGBA.
Dialects: KOPA, TORA. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North,
Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Sere-Ngbaka-Mba, Ngbaka-Mba,
Ngbaka, Eastern, Mayogo-Bangba. More information. |
| BANGI | [BNI]
Population total all countries 70,000 (1990 UBS).
Alternate names: BOBANGI, BUBANGI, LOBOBANGI, REBU,
DZAMBA. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Bangi-Ntomba
(C.40). More information. |
| BANGUBANGU | [BNX]
171,000 including 85,000 Bangubangu, 30,000 Mikebwe,
20,000 Kasenga, 32,000 Nonda, 4,000 Hombo (1995
SIL). Maniema Province, Kasongo District, Kabambare
Territory. Alternate names: KIBANGUBANGU,
BANGOBANGO, KIBANGOBANGO. Dialects: BANGUBANGU,
MIKEBWE, KASENGA, NONDA, HOMBO. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, L, Songye
(L.20). More information. |
| BARAMBU | [BRM] 25,570
(1990 census). A few hundred living among the Bangba
(1996). Orientale Province, Poko Territory, between the
Bomokandi and Uélé rivers. Alternate names:
BARAMBO, AMIANGBA, AMIANGBWA, BALAMBU, ABARAMBO, DUGA.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Zande,
Barambo-Pambia. More information. |
| BEEKE | [BKF] 1,000
or fewer (1994 SIL). Orientale Province, Ituri
District, Mambasa Territory, one village in each of the
Bandaka and Bombo collectivités. Alternate names:
BEKE, IBEEKE. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Lega-Kalanga
(D.20). More information. |
| BEMBA | [BEM]
120,000 in Shila (1972 Barrett). Near southeastern
border of Katanga Province. Possibly in Zimbabwe.
Alternate names: ICHIBEMBA, WEMBA, CHIWEMBA.
Dialects: LEMBUE, LOMOTUA (LOMOTWA), NGOMA, NWESI,
SHILA. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, M, Bemba (M.40). More information. |
| BEMBA | [BMY]
Southern Kivu Province. Alternate names:
KINYABEMBA. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Unclassified. More information. |
| BEMBE | [BMB]
252,000 in DRC (1991 UBS). Population total both
countries 252,000 or more. Alternate names:
IBEMBE, BEEMBE, EBEMBE. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Bembe
(D.50). More information. |
| BENDI | [BCT] 32,000
(1991 SIL). Orientale Province, Djugu Territory, midway
between Bunia and Djalasiga. Alternate names:
MABENDI, MABENI. Classification: Nilo-Saharan,
Central Sudanic, East, Lendu. More information. |
| BERA | [BRF]
120,000 (1992 SIL). Orientale Province, Ituri District,
Irumu Territory. Alternate names: KIBIRA, PLAINS
BIRA. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Bira-Huku (D.30).
More information. |
| BHELE | [PER] 15,000
(1989 estimate). Nord-Kivu Province, Lubero Territory,
west of Butembo. Southern Bhele is in Munjoa.
Alternate names: EBHELE, KIPERE, IPERE, PERE, PERI,
PIRI, PILI, BILI, KIPILI. Dialects: BUGOMBE
(EBUGOMBE). Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Bira-Huku (D.30).
More information. |
| BILA | [BIP] 40,000
(1993 SIL). Orientale Province, Ituri District, Irumu
Territory. Alternate names: KIBILA, FOREST BIRA,
EBILA, WESTERN BILA. Dialects: BOMBI-NGBANJA,
NYAKU. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Bira-Huku (D.30).
More information. |
| BINJI | [BIN] 64,000
(1971 Welmers). Kasaï Occidental Province, Kazumba
Territory. Alternate names: BINDJI.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Central, L, Songye (L.20). More information. |
| BOGURU | [BQU] 494 in
DRC (1997). Orientale Province, west of Garamba
National Park, Dungu. Alternate names: KOGURU,
KOGORO, BUGURU. Dialects: BOGURU, BUKUR (BUKUM,
BUKURU), KOGURU. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Bira-Huku (D.30).
More information. |
| BOKO | [BKP]
Equateur Province, on Congo River, upstream from
Mbandaka. Alternate names: IBOKO.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Northwest, C, Bangi-Ntomba (C.40). More information. |
| BOLIA | [BLI] 45,000
(1977 Voegelin and Voegelin). Bandundu Province, north
of Lake Mai-Ndombe. Alternate names: BULIA,
BOKOKI. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Bangi-Ntomba
(C.40). More information. |
| BOLOKI | [BKT]
Equateur Province, both sides of the Congo River,
upstream from Mbandaka. Alternate names: BALOKI,
BULUKI, BOLEKI, RIVER RUKI. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C,
Bangi-Ntomba (C.40), Lusengo. More information. |
| BOLONDO | [BZM] 3,000
(1983 census). Equateur Province, Sud Ubangi, Budjala
Territory on the Saw River south of Budjala, around the
village of Bamba. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Bangi-Ntomba
(C.40). More information. |
| BOMA | [BOH] 8,000 (1971 Welmers). Bandundu Province. Alternate names: BUMA, KIBOMA, BOMA KASAI. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, B, Yanzi (B.80). |
| BOMASSA | [BME]
Alternate names: BOMASA, BAMASSA.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi,
Sere-Ngbaka-Mba, Ngbaka-Mba, Ngbaka, Western,
Baka-Gundi. More information. |
| BOMBOLI | [BML] 2,500
(1986 SIL). Equateur Province, Sud Ubangi, Kungu
Territory, Dongo Collectivité, north of Bomongo on one
of the canals flowing into the Ngiri River, between the
villages of Bokondo and Bodjinga. Alternate names:
BOMBONGO. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Bangi-Ntomba
(C.40). More information. |
| BOMBOMA | [BWS] 23,000
(1983 census) including 1,279 in Lingonda (1983
census). Equateur Province, Sud Ubangi, Kungu
Territory, Bomboma Collectivité on the southern Roa
Dongo between the villages of Bomboma and Bokonzi, and
including the villages of Lingonda, Ebuku, Makengo,
Ndzubele, Motuba: 7 villages. Alternate names:
BOBA. Dialects: LIKAW, LINGONDA, EBUKU,
BOKONZI. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Bangi-Ntomba
(C.40). More information. |
| BORNA | [BXX]
Alternate names: EBORNA. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Unclassified. More information. |
| BOZABA | [BZO] 5,500
(1983 census). Equateur Province, Sud Ubangi, Kungu
Territory, Mwanda Collectivité, on the islands and
canals northwest of the confluence of the Ngiri and
Mwanda rivers. Alternate names: BUZABA, BUDZABA.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Northwest, C, Bangi-Ntomba (C.40). More information. |
| BUDU | [BUU]
180,000 or more (1991 SIL). Orientale Province, Wamba
Territory, 8 collectivités. Alternate names:
EBUDU, KIBUDU, BODO. Dialects: INETA (TIMONIKO),
WADIMBISA (ISOMBI), MAKODA, WEST BAFWANGADA (BAFANIO),
EAST BAFWANGADA, BAFWAKOYI, MALAMBA, MAHAA.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Central, D, Bira-Huku (D.30). More information. |
| BUDZA | [BJA]
226,000 (1985 census). Equateur Province, Mongala,
Bumba and parts of Bongandanga territories. Alternate
names: EBUJA, BUJA, BUDJA, MBUDJA, EMBUDJA,
LIMBUDZA. Dialects: MBILA, MONZAMBOLI, BOSAMBI,
YALIAMBI. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Bangi-Ntomba
(C.40), Lusengo. More information. |
| BURAKA | [BKG]
Equateur Province, scattered groups along the Ubangi
River, north and northeast of Bosobolo. Alternate
names: BOURAKA, BORAKA. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North,
Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Sere-Ngbaka-Mba, Ngbaka-Mba,
Ngbaka, Western, Gbanzili. More information. |
| BUSHOONG | [BUF] 50,000
to 100,000 (1977 W. Washburn PR). Kasaï Occidental
Province, Mweka and northern Ilebo territories.
Alternate names: BUSHONG, BUSOONG, BUSHONGO, SHONGO,
MBALE, BAMONGO, MONGO, KUBA, GANGA. Dialects:
DJEMBE, NGENDE, NGOMBE (NGOMBIA), NGONGO, PIANGA (PANGA,
TSOBWA, SHOBWA, SHOBA). Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Bushong
(C.90). More information. |
| BUYA | [BYY] Alternate names: IBUYA. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Unclassified. |
| BUYU | [BYI] On
Lake Tanganyika, on the border between Sud-Kivu and
Katanga provinces. Alternate names: BUYI, KIBUYU,
BUJWE. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Bembe (D.50). More information. |
| BWA | [BWW]
200,000 (1994 SIL). Orientale Province, Buta, Bambesa,
Banalia, Aketi, and Bondo territories. Buta is
considered the center. Most people in Buta and Bambesa
territories speak similar dialects. Kiba is in Banalia
Territory, Benge and Bati in Aketi and Bondo
territories. Alternate names: BOA, BUA, BOUA,
LIBUA, LIBWALI, LIBENGE, KIBUA, KIBWA. Dialects:
LEBOA-LE, YEWU, KIBA, BENGE, BATI (BAATI).
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Northwest, C, Ngombe (C.50). More information. |
| BWELA | [BWL] Alternate names: BUELA, LINGI. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Ngombe (C.50). |
| BWILE | [BWC] Haut
Katanga Province, north of Aushi in Pweto area at the
north end of Lake Mweru. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, L, Bwile
(L.10). More information. |
| CHOKWE | [CJK]
504,000 in DRC (1990 UBS). Population total all
countries 1,009,600. Alternate names: COKWE,
CIOKWE, TSHOKWE, TSCHIOKWE, SHIOKO, DJOK, IMO.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Central, K, Chokwe-Luchazi (K.20). More information. |
| DENGESE | [DEZ] 4,000 (1977 Voegelin and Voegelin). Kasaï Occidental Province, Dekese Territory. Alternate names: NDENGESE, ILEO. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Bushong (C.90). |
| DING | [DIZ]
Bandundu Province, Idofa Territory, on the Kasaï
River. Alternate names: DI, DIN, DZING.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Northwest, B, Yanzi (B.80). More information. |
| DONGO | [DOO] 5,000
(1971 Welmers). Orientale Province, east of Watsa.
Alternate names: DONGA. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North,
Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Sere-Ngbaka-Mba, Ngbaka-Mba,
Mba. More information. |
| DZANDO | [DZN] 6,000
(1983 census). Equateur Province, Sud Ubangi, Kungu
Territory, Mwanda Collectivité, between the Ngiri and
Mwanda rivers in the swamp lands in the villages of
Lokay, Molunga, Maboko, and Moliba. Dialects:
LOKAY, MOLUNGA, MABOKO, MOLIBA. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C,
Bangi-Ntomba (C.40). More information. |
| EFE | [EFE] 20,000
(1991 SIL). Orientale Province, Mambasa, Watsa, Irumu,
and Djugu territories. Classification:
Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, East, Mangbutu-Efe. More information. |
| ENYA | [GEY] 7,000
(1977 J. Carrington BAP). On Lualaba River from
Kisangani upriver to Kongolo, Orientale Province, Ubundu
Territory. Alternate names: TSHEENYA, ENA,
GENYA. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Enya (D.10). More information. |
| FOMA | [FOM]
Orientale Province, on the north side of the Congo
River upstream from Basoko. Alternate names:
LIFOMA, FUMA. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Kele (C.60). More information. |
| FRENCH | [FRN]
Classification: Indo-European, Italic, Romance,
Italo-Western, Western, Gallo-Iberian, Gallo-Romance,
Gallo-Rhaetian, Oïl, French. More information. |
| FULIIRU | [FLR]
300,000 (1999 SIL). Sud-Kivu Province, Uvira Territory,
north and northwest of Uvira. Alternate names:
FULIRU, KIFULIRU, FULERO, KIFULERO. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, J, Shi-Havu
(J.50). More information. |
| FURU | [FUU] 12,000
in DRC (1984 census). Population total both countries
16,000. Alternate names: BAGERO, BAGIRO,
BAGUERO, BAGUIRO. Classification: Nilo-Saharan,
Central Sudanic, West, Bongo-Bagirmi, Kara. More information. |
| GBANZIRI | [GBG] 3,000
in DRC (1986 SIL). Equateur Province, Nord Ubangi,
Bosobolo Territory, a few villages along Ubangi River.
Alternate names: GBANZILI, BANZIRI, GBANDERE.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi,
Sere-Ngbaka-Mba, Ngbaka-Mba, Ngbaka, Western, Gbanzili.
More information. |
| GBATI-RI | [GTI]
Orientale Province, between Isiro and Watsa, north of
Mungbere. Alternate names: GBOTE.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Central, J, Konzo (J.40). More information. |
| GILIMA | [GIX] 12,000
(1984 census). Equateur Province, Sud Ubangi, in the
north of the Libenge Territory in 3 groups: Bogon in the
north, Mbanza-Balakpa in the southeast, and Bandi in the
southwest. It may also be in CAR. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North,
Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Sere-Ngbaka-Mba, Ngbaka-Mba,
Ngbaka, Western, Bwaka. More information. |
| GOBU | [GOX] 12,000
in DRC (1984 census). Population total both countries
12,000 or more. Alternate names: GUBU, NGOBO,
NGOBU, GABOU, GABU. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi,
Ubangi, Banda, Central, Central Core, Mid-Southern. More information. |
| HAMBA | [HBA]
Kasaï Oriental Province, Lodja Territory.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Central, D, Lega-Kalanga (D.20). More information. |
| HAVU | [HAV]
Sud-Kivu Province, Kalehe Territory. Alternate
names: KIHAVU, HAAVU. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, J, Shi-Havu
(J.50). More information. |
| HEMA | [NIX]
Population total all countries 160,000 (1996 SIL).
Alternate names: HEMA-SUD, SOUTHERN HEMA, CONGO
NYORO, NYORO, RUNYORO. Dialects: TORO (ORUTORO,
TOORO). Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, J, Nyoro-Ganda (J.10).
More information. |
| HEMBA | [HEM] 85,000
(1976). Katanga Province, eastern Kongolo Territory.
Alternate names: KIHEMBA, EMBA, KIEMBA, LUBA-HEMBA,
EASTERN LUBA. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, L, Luba (L.30). More information. |
| HOLOHOLO | [HOO]
Katanga Province, area northwest of Kalemie.
Alternate names: KIHOLOHOLO, HOROHORO, GUHA,
KALANGA, KIKALANGA. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Lega-Kalanga
(D.20). More information. |
| HOLU | [HOL]
Extreme southwest corner of Bandundu Province.
Alternate names: KIHOLU, HOLO, KIHOLO.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Central, K, Holu (K.10). More information. |
| HUNDE | [HKE]
200,000 (1980 UBS). Nord-Kivu Province, Masisi and
Rutshuru territories. Apparently none in Uganda.
Alternate names: KIHUNDE, KOBI, RUKOBI.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Central, J, Shi-Havu (J.50). More information. |
| HUNGANA | [HUM]
Small. Bandundu Province, Bulungu Territory.
Alternate names: HUNGANNA, HUANA, KIHUNGANA,
HUNGAAN. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, H, Hungana (H.40). More information. |
| JOBA | [JOB] 10,000
(1989 SIL). Sud-Kivu Province, Uvira Territory, north
and northwest of Uvira. Alternate names: KIJOBA,
VIRA, KIVIRA. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, J, Shi-Havu (J.50).
More information. |
| KABWARI | [KCW] Sud-Kivu or Katanga provinces. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, J, Shi-Havu (J.50). |
| KAIKU | [KKQ]
Orientale Province, Ituri District, Mambasa Territory,
Babombi Collectivité. Alternate names: IKAIKU,
KAIKO. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Bira-Huku (D.30).
More information. |
| KAKWA | [KEO] 20,000
in DRC. Orientale Province, Aru Territory, north of
Aru, and Faradje Territory. Alternate names: BARI
KAKWA. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern
Sudanic, Nilotic, Eastern, Bari. More information. |
| KALIKO | [KBO] 7,500
in DRC (1989 SIL). Orientale Province, northern Aru
Territory, along the Sudan border. Alternate names:
KELIKO, KALIKO-MA'DI, MA'DI, MADITI. Dialects:
DIDI, DOGO. Classification: Nilo-Saharan,
Central Sudanic, East, Moru-Madi, Central. More information. |
| KANGO | [KBI]
Orientale Province, Tshopo District, Bafwasende
Territory, among the Bali. Alternate names:
DIKANGO, KANGO PIGMY. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D,
Lega-Kalanga (D.20). More information. |
| KANGO | [KTY]
Orientale Province, Bas-Uélé District, along the banks
of the Uélé River and its tributaries. Alternate
names: LIKANGO. Dialects: BOMOKANDI, UÉLÉ.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Northwest, C, Ngombe (C.50). More information. |
| KANGO | [KZY] 2,000
(1998 T. Harvey) to 5,000 (1998 J. Farmer). Orientale
Province, Tshopo District, Bafwasende Territory, among
the Bali, primarily in the Bakundumu and Bemili
collectivités. The smaller dialect has 7 villages just
to the south of where the Nepoki River meets the Ituri
to become the Aruwimi River. Alternate names:
DIKANGO, KANGO PYGMY, LIKANGO, KIKANGO, 'KIBATCHUA',
'DIBATCHUA'. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Bira-Huku (D.30).
More information. |
| KANU | [KHX] 3,500
(1971 Welmers). Nord-Kivu Province, Walikale Territory,
Kabunga area. Alternate names: LIKANU, KAANU,
KANO. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Lega-Kalanga
(D.20). More information. |
| KANYOK | [KNY]
200,000 (1991 UBS). Kasaï Oriental Province, Mwene-Ditu
Territory, between the Bushimaie and Luembe rivers.
Alternate names: KANYOKA, KANIOKA.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Central, L, Luba (L.30). More information. |
| KAONDE | [KQN] 36,000
in DRC (1995 estimate). Katanga Province, eastern part
of Kolwezi Territory. Alternate names: CHIKAONDE,
KAWONDE, CHIKAHONDE. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, L, Kaonde
(L.40). More information. |
| KARI | [KBJ] 1,000. Scattered groups in northwestern Orientale Province, north of Uele River. Only scattered speakers in Central African Republic (1996). Alternate names: KARE, LI-KARI-LI. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Bira-Huku (D.30). |
| KELA | [KEL]
180,000 (1972 Barrett). Kasaï Oriental Province, Lomela
Territory. Alternate names: OKELA, IKELA, LEMBA.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Northwest, C, Tetela (C.80). More information. |
| KELE | [KHY]
160,000 (1980 UBS) including 7,000 Yalikoka (1977
Voegelin and Voegelin). Orientale Province, Isangi
Territory, on Lomami and Congo rivers. Alternate
names: LOKELE, EKELE, KILI, LIKELO, YAKUSU.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Northwest, C, Kele (C.60). More information. |
| KETE | [KCV] Kasaï Occidental Provice, northeast of Mweka. Alternate names: LUKETE, KIKETE. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, L, Songye (L.20). |
| KITUBA | [KTU]
4,200,000 (1990 UBS), 5,000,000 including second
language users (1989 Mufwene). Orientale and southern
Bandundu provinces. Alternate names:
KIKONGO-KUTUBA, KIKONGO SIMPLIFIÉ, KIKONGO YA LETA,
KILETA, KIKONGO COMMERCIAL, KIBULAMATADI. Dialects:
IKELEVE, WESTERN KITUBA, EASTERN KITUBA.
Classification: Creole, Kongo based. More information. |
| KOMO | [KMW]
400,000 (1998 SIL). Maniema Province, and into
Orientale and Nord-Kivu provinces, as far as Walikale,
Opienge, and Punia. Lubutu is the center. Alternate
names: KIKOMO, KIKUMU, KIKUUMU, KIKUMO, KUUMU, KUMU,
KUMO. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Bira-Huku (D.30).
More information. |
| KONGO | [KON]
1,000,000 in DRC (1986 UBS). Population total all
countries 3,217,000 (1991 UBS). Alternate names:
KIKONGO, CONGO. Dialects: SOUTH CONGO, CENTRAL
KONGO, WEST KONGO (FIOTE, FIOTI), BWENDE (BUENDE),
LAADI, EAST KONGO, SOUTHEAST KONGO, NZAMBA (DZAMBA).
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Central, H, Kongo (H.10). More information. |
| KONGO, SAN SALVADOR | [KWY]
Population total both countries 1,500,000 (1989 UBS).
Alternate names: KIKONGO, CONGO, KISIKONGO,
KIKOONGO. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, H, Kongo (H.10). More information. |
| KPALA | [KPL] 3,000
(1986 SIL). Equateur Province, small groups in Libenge
and Bosobolo territories. Alternate names: KWALA,
KPWAALA, GBAKPWA. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi,
Ubangi, Sere-Ngbaka-Mba, Ngbaka-Mba, Ngbaka, Western,
Monzombo. More information. |
| KUSU | [KSV] 26,000 (1971 Welmers). Southwestern corner of Maniema Province, Kibombo Territory. Alternate names: KIKUSU, KUTSU, LOKUTSU, KONGOLA, FULUKA. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Tetela (C.80). |
| KWAMI | [KTF]
Small. Maniema and Nord-Kivu provinces, between Kasese
and Walikale. Alternate names: KIKWAMI, KIKWAME,
KWAME. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Lega-Kalanga
(D.20). More information. |
| KWESE | [KWS]
60,000. Eastern Bandundu Province, west of Kikwit.
Alternate names: PINDI, KIKWESE, UKWESE.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Central, K, Holu (K.10). More information. |
| LALA-BISA | [LEB]
Extreme southeast corner of Katanga Province.
Dialects: AMBO (BAMBO, KAMBONSENGA), LUANO, SWAKA,
WULIMA, LALA (ICHILALA), BISA (ICHIBISA, WIZA).
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Central, M, Bisa-Lamba (M.50), Bisa. More information. |
| LALIA | [LAL] 55,000
or more (1993 estimate). Southeast corner of Equateur
Province, Ikela Territory, collectivités of Tumbenga,
Lokina, Lofume, Tshwapa, and Loile. Yalosaka is the
center. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Mongo (C.70). More information. |
| LAMBA | [LAB]
Southeast corner of Katanga Province. Alternate
names: ICHILAMBA, CHILAMBA. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, M, Bisa-Lamba
(M.50), Lamba. More information. |
| LANGBASHE | [LNA] 3,000
in DRC (1984 census). Equateur Province, Nord Ubangi,
Bosobolo Territory, along the Ubangi River, villages of
Sidi, Bada, Zimango, Banga, Boduna, and a few other
villages elsewhere in the territory. Alternate names:
LANGBASHI, LANGBASE, LANGBASI, LANGWASI, LANGBWASSE.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Banda, South
Central. More information. |
| LEGA-MWENGA | [LGM] 35,000
to 40,000 or more (1994 ACM). Sud-Kivu Province, Mwenga
Territory. Alternate names: SHILE, KILEGA, REGA,
KIREGA, LEKA-SHILE, LEKA-SILE, ISHILE, ILEKA ISHILE.
Dialects: IYOKO, IBANDA, ISOPO, LUSENGE,
BILEMBO-MANGO, MIZULO. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D,
Lega-Kalanga (D.20). More information. |
| LEGA-SHABUNDA | [LEA]
400,000 (1982 UBS). Sud-Kivu and Maniema provinces,
Shabunda, and Pangi territories. The first 5 dialects
are in Shabunda Territory, Kinyamunsange is in Pangi
Territory. Alternate names: KILEGA, REGA, KIREGA,
ILEKA-IGONZABALE, LEKA-IGONZABALE, IGONZABALE.
Dialects: KIGALA, KIGYOMA, LILIGA, KISEDE,
KINYABANGA, KINYAMUNSANGE (PANGI). Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D,
Lega-Kalanga (D.20). More information. |
| LELE | [LEL] 26,000
(1971 Welmers). Western edge of Kasaï Occidental
Province, Ilebo and Tshikapa territories, and extreme
east of Bandundu Province, Idiofa and Gungu territories.
Alternate names: USILELE, BASHILELE.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Northwest, C, Bushong (C.90). More information. |
| LENDU | [LED]
750,000 in DRC (1996 C. Kutsch Lojenga SIL). Population
total both countries 760,000. Alternate names:
BBADHA, BBALEDHA, KILENDU, BALETHA, BATHA, BALENDRU,
BALE, HEMA-NORD, KIHEMA-NORD. Dialects: DJADHA,
TADHA, PIDHA, DDRALO, NJAWLO, GEGERE.
Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, East,
Lendu. More information. |
| LENGOLA | [LEJ]
100,000 or fewer (1998). Orientale Province, Ubundu
Territory, Maniema Province, Lubutu and Punia
territories, both sides of the Lualaba River, but more
on the west side within a triangle between Opienge,
Lowa, and a point called 'Km 100' on the
Kisangani-Lubutu road. Alternate names:
KILENGOLA, LENGORA. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Enya (D.10). More information. |
| LESE | [LES] 50,000
(1991 SIL). Orientale Province, Watsa, Djugu, Irumu,
and Mambasa territories. Alternate names: LESA,
LESSE, LISSI, WALISI, WALESE, BALESE, MBUTI.
Dialects: LESE KARO, ARUMBI (UPSTREAM LESE), NDESE
(LESE DESE), VUKUTU (VONKUTU, OBI), FARE.
Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, East,
Mangbutu-Efe. More information. |
| LIBINZA | [LIZ] 10,000
(1986 SIL). Equateur Province, Sud Ubangi and Equateur
districts, in Kungu and northern Bomongo districts, on
the Ngiri and Mwanda rivers, from the villages of Monia
and Boniange southwards, on islands as far as Bomongo.
Alternate names: LIBINJA. Dialects:
MONIA, BONIANGE, KUTU. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C,
Bangi-Ntomba (C.40), Ngiri. More information. |
| LIGENZA | [LGZ] 43,000
(1986 SIL). Equateur Province, Bumba Territory, 3 or 4
small areas. Alternate names: GENDJA, DIGENJA,
GENDZA-BALI. Dialects: BOKOY, ELOWA, BENZA,
BOLUPI. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Ngombe (C.50).
More information. |
| LIKA | [LIK] 60,000
including 57,000 in Wamba District, 3,000 in Rungu
District (1989 SIL). Orientale Province, Upper-Uele
District, Wamba Territory, Balika-Toriko Collectivité.
Some in Rungu Territory, Mongomasi Collectivité.
Alternate names: KILIKA, TORIKO, KPONGO, MABITI.
Dialects: LIKÓ (IKÓ), LILIKÓ (LIKÓ), LILIKÁ (LIKÁ).
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Central, D, Lega-Kalanga (D.20). More information. |
| LIKILA | [LIE]
Equateur Province, around Makanza town on the northern
bank of the Congo River. Alternate names:
BANGELA, BALOBO. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Bangi-Ntomba
(C.40), Ngiri. More information. |
| LINGALA | [LIN] Second
language speakers together with Bangala: 7,000,000 (1999
WA). Population total all countries 309,100 or more.
Alternate names: NGALA. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C,
Bangi-Ntomba (C.40), Lusengo. More information. |
| LOBALA | [LOQ] 40,000
in DRC (1983 census). Population total both countries
40,000 or more. Dialects: POKO, SOUTH LOBALA,
TANDA, LIKOKA. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Bangi-Ntomba
(C.40). More information. |
| LOGO | [LOG]
210,000 (1989 SIL) including 100,000 Ogambi. Orientale
Province, Faradje Territory and Watsa town. Alternate
names: LOGOTI. Dialects: OGAMBI (OGAMARU,
NORTHERN LOGO), DOKA, LOLYA, OBILEBHA (OBELEBHA,
OBILEBA), BHAGIRA (BAGELA), BARI (BARI-LOGO, BARITI).
Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic,
East, Moru-Madi, Central. More information. |
| LOMBI | [LMI] 12,000
(1993 SIL). Orientale Province, Tshopo District,
Bafwasende Territory, Barumi and Bekeni collectivités.
Opienge, Banguruye, and Bangolu are centers.
Alternate names: LUMBI, ROMBI, RUMLI, ODYALOMBITO.
Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic,
East, Mangbetu. More information. |
| LOMBO | [LOO] 10,000
(1971 Welmers). Orientale Province, both sides of Congo
River in Isangi area. Alternate names: OLOMBO,
ULUMBU, TURUMBU. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Kele (C.60). More information. |
| LONZO | [LNZ] Small. Bandundu Province, Kenge Territory. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, H, Yaka (H.30). |
| LUBA-KASAI | [LUB]
6,300,000 (1991 UBS). Used throughout Kasaï Occidental
and Kasaï Oriental provinces. Alternate names:
LUBA-LULUA, TSHILUBA, WESTERN LUBA, LUVA.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Central, L, Luba (L.30). More information. |
| LUBA-KATANGA | [LUH]
1,505,000 (1991 UBS). Katanga Province, Haut-Lomami
District. Alternate names: LUBA-SHABA, KILUBA.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Central, L, Luba (L.30). More information. |
| LUGBARA | [LUG]
288,000 in DRC (1993 Johnstone). Orientale Province,
Aru Territory, 6 collectivités. Alternate names:
HIGH LUGBARA. Dialects: ZAKI, ABEDJU-AZAKI, LU,
ALURU, NIO, OTSHO. Classification: Nilo-Saharan,
Central Sudanic, East, Moru-Madi, Central. More information. |
| LUNA | [LUJ]
50,000. Kasaï Oriental Province, Lusambo Territory.
Alternate names: INKONGO, KUBA, NORTHERN LUBA.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Central, L, Songye (L.20). More information. |
| LUNDA | [LVN]
Southern and southwestern Katanga Province, Lualaba
District; extreme south of Bandundu Province, Kahemba
Territory. Alternate names: CHILUNDA.
Dialects: LUNDA NDEMBU, LUNDA KALUNDA, LUNDA
KAMBOVE. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, K, Salampasu-Ndembo
(K.30). More information. |
| LUSENGO | [LUS]
Primarily on the Congo River in Equateur Province,
Mankanza, Lisala, and Bumba territories. Alternate
names: LOSENGO. Dialects: KANGANA, ILIKU
(ELEKO, LEKO, ELEKU, LOLEKO, LEKU), LIMPESA, LIPOTO
(UPOTO, KELE, INGUNDJI), BUMWANGI, BUSU DJANGA, EMPESA
POKO, ESUMBU, KUNDA, KUMBA, LUSENGO POTO, MONGALA POTO,
NGUNDI, MONGO. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Bangi-Ntomba
(C.40), Lusengo. More information. |
| LWALU | [LWA] 21,000 (1971 Welmers). Kasaï Occidental Province, Luiza Territory. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, L, Luba (L.30). |
| MA | [MSJ] 4,700
(1977 Voegelin and Voegelin). Orientale Province, north
of Niangara, close to Kapili River. Alternate names:
AMADI, MADI, MADYO. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi,
Ubangi, Sere-Ngbaka-Mba, Ngbaka-Mba, Mba. More information. |
| MABAALE | [MMZ] Equateur Province, Ngiri River area. Alternate names: LOMABAALE, MABALE, MBALI. Dialects: BEMBE, LIPANJA, BANZA, MBINGA, LOBO (BALOBO). Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Bangi-Ntomba (C.40). |
| MAMVU | [MDI] 60,000
(1991 SIL). Orientale Province, west and southwest of
Watsa in Watsa Territory. Possibly some in Uganda.
Alternate names: TENGO. Dialects: AMENGI,
MAMVU (MOMVU, MOMFU). Classification:
Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, East, Mangbutu-Efe. More information. |
| MANGBETU | [MDJ]
620,000. Population total both countries 650,000 (1985
UBS). Alternate names: NEMANGBETU, MANGBETTU,
MAMBETTO, AMANGBETU, KINGBETU. Dialects: MEJE
(MEDJE), MANGBETU, MAKERE, MALELE, POPOI.
Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, East,
Mangbetu. More information. |
| MANGBUTU | [MDK] 15,000
including 1,200 Andinai (1991 SIL). Orientale Province,
south of the Kibali River and east of the Moto River in
Watsa Territory. Alternate names: MOMBUTTU,
WAMBUTU, MANGU-NGUTU. Dialects: ANDINAI,
MAKUTANA, ANGWE (ANDALI). Classification:
Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, East, Mangbutu-Efe. More information. |
| MAYEKA | [MYC]
Vicinity of Congo, Central African Republic, DRC
borders. Not in CAR. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, J, Konzo (J.40). More information. |
| MAYOGO | [MDM]
100,000 (1991 McCord SIL). Orientale Province, Isiro
area. Most are in the Rungu and Wamba territories.
Alternate names: MAIGO, MAIKO, MAYKO, KIYOGO,
MAJUGU, MAYUGO. Dialects: MADIMADOKO, MADIPIA
(MABOZO, MAGBAI, MABODESE, MADJEDJE).
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi,
Sere-Ngbaka-Mba, Ngbaka-Mba, Ngbaka, Eastern,
Mayogo-Bangba. More information. |
| MBA | [MFC] 14,000
to 20,000 (1977 UFM). Orientale Province, Banalia
Territory, Banjwade area. Alternate names:
KIMANGA, MANGA, KIMBANGA. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North,
Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Sere-Ngbaka-Mba, Ngbaka-Mba,
Mba. More information. |
| MBALA | [MDP]
200,000 (1972 Nida). Bandundu Province, Bagata and
Bulungu territories, between Kwango and Kwilu rivers.
Alternate names: GIMBALA, RUMBALA.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Central, K, Mbala (K.60). More information. |
| MBANDJA | [ZMZ]
Population total all countries 200,000 (1982 M. Hill).
Alternate names: MBANZA, MBANJA, MBANDZA.
Dialects: KALA, GBADO. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North,
Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Banda, Southern. More information. |
| MBESA | [ZMS] Orientale Province, northern Yahuma Territory, south of Congo River. Alternate names: MOMBESA, MOBESA. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Kele (C.60). |
| MBO | [ZMW] 11,000
(1994 SIL). Orientale Province, Ituri District, Mambasa
Territory, Bombo Collectivité. Alternate names:
KIMBO, IMBO. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Bira-Huku (D.30).
More information. |
| MBOLE | [MDQ]
100,000 (1971 Welmers). Orientale Province, southwest
of Kisangani. Alternate names: LOMBOLE.
Dialects: KEEMBO, NKIMBE (NKEMBE), YANGONDA, YAISU,
INJA, BOTUNGA, YAAMBA, YAIKOLE. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Enya
(D.10). More information. |
| MFINU | [ZMF] Bandundu Province. Alternate names: EMFINU, FUNIKA, MFUNUNGA. Dialects: NTSIAM, NTSWAR. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, B, Yanzi (B.80). |
| MITUKU | [ZMQ]
Orientale Province, Ubundu Territory, west of Lualaba
River. Alternate names: KINYA-MITUKU, METOKO.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Central, D, Enya (D.10). More information. |
| MOINGI | [MWZ] Orientale Province, Yahuma Territory, south of Congo River, opposite the town of Basoko. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Unclassified. |
| MONGO-NKUNDU | [MOM]
400,000 or more (1995 estimate). 4,800,000 (1993
Johnstone) or 17% of the population (1978 WA) all Mongo
languages in DRC. Southern half of Equateur Province
and northeastern part of Bandundu Province. Alternate
names: MONGO, LOMONGO. Dialects: MPAMA,
WANGATA, PANGA (IPANGA, TITU, BULI, SOUTH NKUNDO),
BUKALA (KALA), YALIMA (YAJIMA), KUTU (BAKUTU), EKONDA
MONGO (LOMONGO), LONGO (BOLONGO), NKUNDO (NKUNDU,
LONKUNDU, LONKUNDO, LOLO), NTOMBA-INONGO, NTOMBA-BIKORO,
KONDA (EKONDA, LOKONDA, LOKWALA), LONGOMBE.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Northwest, C, Mongo (C.70). More information. |
| MONO | [MNH] 65,000
(1984 census). Equateur Province, Nord Ubangi, Bosobolo
Territory and some in Libenge Territory. Bili is the
center. Alternate names: AMONO. Dialects:
BILI, BUBANDA, GALABA, KAGA, MPAKA. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North,
Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Banda, Central, Central Core,
Mid-Southern. More information. |
| MONZOMBO | [MOJ] 5,000
in DRC (1986 SIL). Equateur Province, on east bank of
Ubangi River south of Libenge. Alternate names:
MONJOMBO, MONO-JEMBO, MONZUMBO. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North,
Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Sere-Ngbaka-Mba, Ngbaka-Mba,
Ngbaka, Western, Monzombo. More information. |
| MPUONO | [ZMP]
165,000 (1972 Nida). Bandundu Province, Idiofa
Territory. Dialects: MPUONO, MPUUN (MBUUN,
KIMBUUN, MBUNDA, GIMBUNDA). Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, B, Yanzi
(B.80). More information. |
| MÜNDÜ | [MUH] 2,800
in DRC. Orientale Province, north and northeast of
Faradje. Alternate names: MUNDO, MOUNTOU, MONDO.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi,
Sere-Ngbaka-Mba, Ngbaka-Mba, Ngbaka, Eastern, Mundu.
More information. |
| MVUBA | [MXH]
Population total both countries 5,000 (1981 Hurlburt).
Alternate names: MBUBA, BAMBUBA, BAMVUBA,
MVUBA-A, OBIYE. Classification: Nilo-Saharan,
Central Sudanic, East, Mangbutu-Efe. More information. |
| NANDI | [NNB]
903,000 (1991 UBS). Nord-Kivu Province, mainly in Beni
and Lubero territories. Alternate names: KINANDI,
KINANDE, NANDE, NORTHERN NANDE, NDANDE, ORUNDANDE.
Dialects: NANDI, KUMBULE (EKIKUMBULE), MATE
(EKIMATE), TANGI (EKITANGI), SANZA (EKISANZA), SHU
(EKISHU), EKISONGOORA (SONGOLA, NYANGALA), SWAGA
(EKISWAGA, EKIKIRA), YIRA (EKIYIRA). Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, J, Konzo
(J.40). More information. |
| NDAKA | [NDK] 25,000
(1994 SIL). Orientale Province, Ituri District, Mambasa
Territory, Bandaka Collectivité, along the road between
Bunia and NiaNia. Roads also go to Kisangani and Isiro.
Alternate names: NDAAKA, INDAAKA.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Central, D, Bira-Huku (D.30). More information. |
| NDO | [NDP]
100,000. Population total both countries 300,000 (1991
UBS). Alternate names: KE'BU, OKE'BU, KEBUTU,
NDU. Dialects: AVARI (AVARE, AVERE, AVIRITU),
OKE'BU, MEMBI (MEMBITU, MEEMBI, MOMBI, NDO).
Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, East,
Mangbutu-Efe. More information. |
| NDOBO | [NDW]
Equateur Province, between Bomongo and the Congo
River. Alternate names: NDOOBO.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Northwest, C, Bangi-Ntomba (C.40), Ngiri. More information. |
| NDOLO | [NDL] 8,000
(1983 census). Equateur Province, Sud Ubangi, Budjala
Territory, Ndolo-Liboko Collectivité, on the Moeko
River, south of Budjala between Ndama and Bokala
villages, and in Tando and Lisombo villages.
Alternate names: NDOOLO, MOSANGE, TANDO.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Northwest, C, Bangi-Ntomba (C.40), Lusengo. More information. |
| NDUNGA | [NDT] 2,500
(1977 Voegelin and Voegelin). Equateur Province, 8
villages in Lisala Territory. Alternate names:
MONDUNGA, MONDUGU, BONDONGA, MODUNGA.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi,
Sere-Ngbaka-Mba, Ngbaka-Mba, Mba. More information. |
| NGANDO | [NXD]
220,000 or more (1995 estimate). Equateur Province,
Maringa River area, north of Ikela. Alternate names:
NGANDU, LONGANDU. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Mongo (C.70). More information. |
| NGBAKA | [NGA]
1,000,000 in DRC (1999). Population total all countries
1,005,000 or more. Alternate names: NGBAKA
MINANGENDE, NGBAKA GBAYA. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North,
Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Gbaya-Manza-Ngbaka, East. More information. |
| NGBAKA MA'BO | [NBM] 11,000
in DRC (1984 census). Equateur Province, Libenge
District, and Zongo Territory, on the road north and
south of Zongo, and in a belt just north of Libenge.
Alternate names: NGBAKA LIMBA, MBAKA, MBACCA, BWAKA,
BOUAKA, NBWAKA, GBAKA, GWAKA, MBWAKA, MA'BO.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi,
Sere-Ngbaka-Mba, Ngbaka-Mba, Ngbaka, Western, Bwaka.
More information. |
| NGBANDI, NORTHERN | [NGB]
105,000 (1989). Population total both countries
105,000. Alternate names: NGWANDI, MONGWANDI,
BAZA. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi,
Ubangi, Ngbandi. More information. |
| NGBANDI, SOUTHERN | [NBW]
105,000. Equateur Province, Businga, Budjala, Kungu,
and Libenge territories. Alternate names:
MONGBANDI, MBATI, NGBANDI-SUD, NGBANDI-NGIRI, NGWANDI,
MONGWANDI. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi,
Ubangi, Ngbandi. More information. |
| NGBINDA | [NBD] Few
speakers. Alternate names: BUNGBINDA,
BANGBINDA. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Bira-Huku (D.30).
More information. |
| NGBUNDU | [NUU] 16,000
(1984 census). Equateur Province, Sud Ubangi, Libenge
Territory. Northern group is north of Libenge from the
Boyabo crossroads east to Budu and north to Oro.
Southern group is south of Libenge, mixed with Mbanza
and other language groups. Not in Central African
Republic. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi,
Ubangi, Banda, Southwestern. More information. |
| NGELIMA | [AGH]
Orientale Province, Banalia and Basoko territories.
Alternate names: BANGELIMA, BANGALEMA, ANGBA,
LEANGBA. Dialects: BEO, BURU (BORO, LEBORO),
TUNGU, HANGA. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Ngombe (C.50).
More information. |
| NGIRI | [NGR] 6,000
(1977 SIL). Equateur Province, southern part of Bomongo
Territory, between Ubangi River and Congo River.
Alternate names: NGUILI, NGWILI, LOI-NGIRI.
Dialects: NUNU, MANGANJI, NGIRI. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C,
Bangi-Ntomba (C.40), Ngiri. More information. |
| NGITI | [NIY]
100,000 (1991 SIL). Orientale Province, Irumu
Territory, south of Bunia. Alternate names:
KINGITI, NGETI, KINGETI, NDRUNA, DRUNA, BINDI,
LENDU-SUD. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Central
Sudanic, East, Lendu. More information. |
| NGOMBE | [NGC]
150,000 (1971 Welmers). Equateur Province, extensive
area along both sides of Congo River, primarily in
Mongala District and in adjacent parts of Southern
Ubangi and Equateur districts. Binja is in Orientale
Province, Aketi Territory. Alternate names:
LINGOMBE. Dialects: BINJA (BINZA, LIBINDJA,
LIBINJA), WIINDZA-BAALI, DOKO. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Ngombe
(C.50). More information. |
| NGONGO | [NOQ]
Bandundu Province. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, H, Yaka (H.30). More information. |
| NGUL | [NLO] Western Bandundu Province along the Kasaï River north of Idiofa. Alternate names: NGOLI, INGUL, NGULI, NGULU. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, B, Mbere (B.60). |
| NGUNDU | [NUE]
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Banda,
Central, Central Core, Mid-Southern. More information. |
| NKUTU | [NKW] 40,000
(1972 Nida). Maniema Province, Kibombo Territory.
Alternate names: NKUCHU, NKUTSHU, BANKUTU.
Dialects: ELEMBE, HAMBA, LOKALO (KALO),
KONGOLA-MENO, NGONGO, SAKA (LOSAKA). Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Tetela
(C.80). More information. |
| NTOMBA | [NTO]
100,000 (1980 UBS). Bandundu Province, northeast of
Lake Tumba. Alternate names: LONTOMBA, NTUMBA,
LUNTUMBA, NTOMBA-BOLIA. Dialects: IMONA, MPONGO,
NKOLE, NTOMBA, SAKANYI, SOKO, SAW. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C,
Bangi-Ntomba (C.40). More information. |
| NYALI | [NLJ] 43,000
(1993 SIL). Orientale Province, Ituri District, Djugu
Territory, Kilo Collectivité. Alternate names:
LINYALI, NYARI, HUKU, NYALI-KILO, NORTH NYALI.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Central, D, Bira-Huku (D.30). More information. |
| NYANGA | [NYA]
150,000 (1994 census). Nord-Kivu Province, Walikale
Territory, Wanyanga Collectivité. Alternate names:
KINYANGA, INYANGA. Dialects: INYANGA, IFUNA,
IKUMBURE, ITIRI. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Nyanga (D.40). More information. |
| NYANGA-LI | [NYC]
Orientale Province, Watsa Territory, southwest of
Watsa. Alternate names: LINYANGA-LE.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Central, J, Konzo (J.40). More information. |
| NYINDU | [NYG]
Sud-Kivu Province, west of Lake Kivu.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Central, J, Shi-Havu (J.50). More information. |
| NZAKARA | [NZK]
Orientale Province, northwestern part of Bondo
Territory, on the border with Central African Republic.
Alternate names: N'SAKARA, SAKARA, ZAKARA,
ANSAKARA. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi,
Ubangi, Zande, Zande-Nzakara. More information. |
| OMBO | [OML]
Maniema Province, northwest of Kindu. Alternate
names: LOOMBO, HOMBO, SONGOLA. Dialects:
MBULI (MBOLE). Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Mongo (C.70). More information. |
| OMI | [OMI] 39,500
(1989 SIL). Orientale Province, Aru Territory, between
the Nzoro and Lowa rivers along the Aru to Aba road.
Alternate names: KALIKO-OMI. Classification:
Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, East, Moru-Madi,
Central. More information. |
| PAGIBETE | [PAG] 25,000
(1985 SIL), including about 6,000 Momveda, 4,500
Mongbapele. Equateur Province, Businga, Yakoma, and
Bumba territories. Mongbapele is along the road south of
Businga. Momveda is in the area around Ngakpo on the
north side of the Dua River, across from Gumba, and in
Butu, Yakoma Territory. Ndundusana is to the south of
Butu and at Ndundu-Sana in the northern Bumba Territory.
Alternate names: APAKABETI, APAKIBETI, APAGIBETE,
APAGIBETI, PAGABETE. Dialects: MOMVEDA,
MONGBAPELE, NDUNDUSANA (GEZON, EGEZON, EGEZO, EGEJO).
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Northwest, C, Ngombe (C.50). More information. |
| PAMBIA | [PAM] 21,000
(1982 SIL). Northern Orientale Province. Alternate
names: APAMBIA. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi,
Ubangi, Zande, Barambo-Pambia. More information. |
| PELENDE | [PPP]
Bandundu Province, Kenge Territory. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, H, Yaka
(H.30). More information. |
| PHENDE | [PEM]
420,000 (1991 UBS). Bandundu Province, Idiofa and Gungu
territories, south of the Kasaï River. Alternate
names: KIPENDE, GIPHENDE, PENDE, GIPENDE, PINDI,
PINJI. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, K, Holu (K.10). More information. |
| POKE | [POF] 46,000
(1971 Welmers). Orientale Province, Isangi Territory,
south of Congo River downstream from Kisangani.
Alternate names: TOPOKE, TOFOKE, TOVOKE, PUKI.
Dialects: BALUOMBILA, LIKOLO, LIUTWA, LOMBOOKI.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Northwest, C, Kele (C.60). More information. |
| RUUND | [RND]
Population total both countries 238,000 (1991 UBS).
Alternate names: URUUND, NORTHERN LUNDA, LUUNDA,
CHILUWUNDA, MUATIAMVUA, LUWUNDA, LUNDA-KAMBORO, LUNDA
KAMBOVE. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, K, Salampasu-Ndembo
(K.30). More information. |
| RWANDA | [RUA]
250,000 possibly in DRC (UBS). Nord-Kivu Province,
Rwanda border area between Lakes Edward and Kivu and
extending westward. Alternate names: KINYARWANDA,
RUANDA. Dialects: BWISHA (KINYABWISHA), MULENGE
(KINYAMULENGE), TWA. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, J,
Rwanda-Rundi (J.60). More information. |
| SAKATA | [SAT] 75,000
(1982 UBS). Bandundu Province, Kutu, Mushie and Inongo
territories, Lukenie River and Semendua area.
Alternate names: KISAKATA, SAKA, LESA, ODUAL.
Dialects: SAKATA, DJIA (KIDJIA, DIA, DJA), BAI
(KIBAI). Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Bangi-Ntomba
(C.40). More information. |
| SALAMPASU | [SLX] 60,000
(1977 Voegelin and Voegelin). Southeastern part of
Kasaï Occidental Province, east of Luiza. Alternate
names: CHISALAMPASU. Dialects: LUNTU.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Central, K, Salampasu-Ndembo (K.30). More information. |
| SAMBA | [SMX]
Bandundu Province, northern part of Kasongo-Lunda
Territory. Alternate names: TSAMBA, USAMBA,
TSAAM, SHANKADI. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, K, Holu (K.10). More information. |
| SANGA | [SNG]
431,000 (1991 UBS). Katanga Province, north of Likasi,
widely dispersed in Lubudi, Mitwaba, and Pweto
territories. Alternate names: KISANGA, SOUTHERN
LUBA, LUBA-SANGA, LUBA-GARENGANZE. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, L, Luba
(L.30). More information. |
| SANGO | [SAJ] Only a
few in DRC. Extreme northern border of Equateur
Province (Oubangui River). Alternate names:
SANGHO. Classification: Creole, Ngbandi based.
More information. |
| SEBA | [KDG]
Katanga Province, Kasenga Territory. Alternate
names: SEWA, SHISHI, KUNDA. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, M, Bisa-Lamba
(M.50), Bisa. More information. |
| SENGELE | [SZG]
Bandundu Province, west of Lake Mai-Ndombe.
Alternate names: KESENGELE, SENGERE.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Northwest, C, Bangi-Ntomba (C.40). More information. |
| SERE | [SWF] 2,500
in DRC. Population total both countries 2,525.
Alternate names: SHERE, SHERI, CHERE, SERRE, SHAIRE,
SIRI, SILI, BASIRI, BASILI. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North,
Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Sere-Ngbaka-Mba, Sere,
Sere-Bviri, Ndogo-Sere. More information. |
| SHI | [SHR]
654,000 (1991 UBS). Sud-Kivu Province, north, west, and
south of Bukavu. Alternate names: MASHI.
Dialects: LINDJA, HWINDJA (LWINDJA), ZIBA,
LONGE-LONGE. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, J, Shi-Havu (J.50).
More information. |
| SO | [SOC] 6,000
(1971 Welmers). Orientale Province, north of Basoko.
Alternate names: HESO, ESO, SOKO, SOA.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Northwest, C, Kele (C.60). More information. |
| SONDE | [SHC]
Southeastern Bandundu Province, Feshi Territory.
Alternate names: KISONDE, SOONDE, KISOONDE.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Central, H, Yaka (H.30). More information. |
| SONGA | [SGO] Southern Kivu Province. Alternate names: KISONGA. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Unclassified. |
| SONGE | [SOP]
1,000,000 (1991 WA) including 150,000 in Western Kalebwe
(1982 UBS). Kasaï Oriental Province, between Sankuru
and Lualaba rivers, mainly in Kabinda Zone and eastward
into Kongolo and Kabolo territories of Katanga Province.
Alternate names: SONGYE, KISONGYE, LUSONGE,
KALEBWE, NORTHEAST LUBA, YEMBE, KISONGE, LUBA-SONGI,
KISONGI. Dialects: WESTERN KALEBWE (ESAMBI
KIPYA, SONGE), EASTERN KALEBWE (KILOMBENO KIBYA,
IKALEBWE), MBAGANI. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, L, Songye (L.20). More information. |
| SONGO | [SOO]
Bandundu Province, Bulungu Territory. Possibly also in
Angola. Alternate names: KISONGO, ITSONG.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Central, Unclassified. More information. |
| SONGOMENO | [SOE] 50,000
(1972 Barrett). Kasaï Occidental Province, Dekese
Territory. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Bushong (C.90).
More information. |
| SONGOORA | [SOD] 1,300
(1971 Welmers). Maniema Province, Punia, Kindu, and
Shabunda territories. Gengele is in Kindu Territory.
Alternate names: SONGOLA, KESONGOLA, BINJA.
Dialects: GENGELE (KEGENGELE), NORTH BINJA, SOUTH
BINJA. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Lega-Kalanga
(D.20). More information. |
| SUKU | [SUB] 50,000
(1980 UBS). Southern Bandundu Province, west of Feshi,
in areas of Moanza and Mwela. Alternate names:
KISUKU. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, H, Yaka (H.30). More information. |
| SWAHILI, CONGO | [SWC] There
may be a few mother tongue speakers in cities. Second
language for 9,100,000 (1991 UBS). Throughout the
Katanga, Nord-Kivu, Sud-Kivu, and Maniema provinces and
the southeastern part of the Orientale Province. There
are other varieties of Swahili in East Africa.
Alternate names: ZAÏRE SWAHILI. Dialects:
ITURI KINGWANA, LUALABA KINGWANA, KATANGA SWAHILI, KIVU
SWAHILI. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, G, Swahili (G.40). More information. |
| TAABWA | [TAP]
250,000 in DRC (1972 Barrett). Population total both
countries 250,000 or more. Alternate names:
RUNGU, ICHITAABWA, TABWA. Dialects: SHILA.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Central, M, Bemba (M.40). More information. |
| TAGBU | [TBM]
Widely scattered. None in Sudan or CAR. Alternate
names: TAGBO, TAGBA. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North,
Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Sere-Ngbaka-Mba, Sere,
Sere-Bviri, Ndogo-Sere. More information. |
| TALINGA-BWISI | [TLJ] 20,000
to 30,000 in DRC (1993 WHM). Nord-Kivu Province, Beni
Territory, Butalinga County, within the boundaries of
the Virunga National Park, up to the Uganda border.
Alternate names: KITALINGA, LUBWISI, OLUBWISI,
BWISSI, MAWISSI, LUBWISSI. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, J, Haya-Jita
(J.20). More information. |
| TEKE, CENTRAL | [TEC]
Bandundu Province, Mushie Territory. Alternate
names: KITEKE. Dialects: KWE, NJINJU
(NJYUNJYU, NDZIKOU, NDZINDZIJU, NZIKU, NZINZIHU), WUO,
BOMA (BOO, EBOO, EBOOM, BOMA MBALI, BAMBOMA).
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Northwest, B, Teke (B.70). More information. |
| TEKE, EASTERN | [TEK]
Population total both countries 71,000. Alternate
names: KITEKE, IBALI. Dialects: MOSIENO,
NGEE (ESINGEE), BALI (AMBALI, TEO, TIO, TYO).
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Northwest, B, Teke (B.70). More information. |
| TEMBO | [TBT]
150,000 (1994 SIL). Sud-Kivu and Nord-Kivu provinces,
almost all in Kalehe Territory. Alternate names:
KITEMBO, CHITEMBO, NYABUNGU. Dialects: TEMBO
(KITEMBO), RHINYIHINYI. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, J, Shi-Havu
(J.50). More information. |
| TEMBO | [TMV] 5,000
(1986 SIL). Equateur Province, Sud Ubangi and Equateur
districts, Budjala and Bomongo districts, villages or
Libanza, Bokele, and Bosanga on the Banga-Melo River, at
1 or 2 villages on the Mongala River southwest of Akula,
and Sumba Island. Alternate names: MOTEMBO,
LITEMBO. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Ngombe (C.50).
More information. |
| TETELA | [TEL]
750,000 (1991 UBS). Northern Kasaï Oriental Province.
Alternate names: OTETELA, SUNGU.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Northwest, C, Tetela (C.80). More information. |
| TIENE | [TII] 24,500
or more (1977 SIL). Bandundu Province, Bolobo area on
Congo River and inland savannah and forest. Alternate
names: KITIENE, KITIINI, TENDE. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, B, Yanzi
(B.80). More information. |
| VANUMA | [VAU] 6,700
(1993 SIL). Orientale Province, Ituri District, Irumu
Territory, Tchabi Collectivité. Alternate names:
BVANUMA, LIVANUMA, BAMBUTUKU. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Bira-Huku
(D.30). More information. |
| WONGO | [WON] 2,000
to 8,000 (1971 Welmers). Kasaï Occidental Province,
Ilebo and Tshikapa territories. Bandundu Province, Guagu
and Idiofa territories, in area of Lubue River.
Alternate names: GONGO, NDJEMBE, TUKKONGO, TUKONGO,
BAKONG. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Bushong (C.90).
More information. |
| YAKA | [YAF]
Population total both countries 150,000 to 200,000
(1977 SIL). Alternate names: KIYAKA, IAKA,
IYAKA. Dialects: NGOONGO. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, H, Yaka
(H.30). More information. |
| YAKOMA | [YKY]
10,000. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi,
Ubangi, Ngbandi. More information. |
| YAMONGERI | [YMG]
Equateur Province, south of the Congo River.
Alternate names: YAMONGIRI. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C,
Bangi-Ntomba (C.40). More information. |
| YANGO | [YNG] 3,000
(1986 SIL). Equateur Province, Kungu and Libenge
districts, around Esobe River and in village of
Gbendere. Alternate names: GBENDERE.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi,
Sere-Ngbaka-Mba, Ngbaka-Mba, Ngbaka, Western, Monzombo.
More information. |
| YANSI | [YNS]
100,000 or more (1997 Salikoko Mufwene). Bandundu
Province, Bulungu Territory, Loange River area.
Alternate names: YANZI, EYANZI, KIYANZI, EYANSI.
Dialects: YEEI (YEY). Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, B, Yanzi
(B.80). More information. |
| YELA | [YEL] 33,000 (1977 Voegelin and Voegelin). Equateur Province, mainly in Bokungu Territory. Alternate names: BOYELA, KUTU. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Tetela (C.80). |
| YOMBE | [YOM]
Western Bas-Congo Province, Mayombe Forest. Also
spoken in Angola, Congo. Alternate names:
KIYOMBE, KIOMBI, BAYOMBE. Dialects: MBALA
(MUMBALA), VUNGUNYA (KIVUNGUNYA, YOMBE CLASSIQUE).
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Central, H, Kongo (H.10). More information. |
| YULU | [YUL]
Binga are in DRC and Sudan; Yulu are in Sudan and CAR.
Alternate names: YOULOU. Dialects: BINGA,
YULU. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Central
Sudanic, West, Bongo-Bagirmi, Kara. More information. |
| ZANDE | [ZAN]
730,000 in DRC. Population total all countries
1,142,000. Alternate names: PAZANDE, ZANDI,
AZANDE, SANDE, ASANDE, BADJANDE, BAZENDA.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Zande,
Zande-Nzakara. More information. |
| ZIMBA | [ZMB]
120,000 (1994 census). Maniema Province, Kasongo
Territory, Mulu and Maringa collectivités. Dialects:
BINJA (SOE, SOLE), SEMULU (SEMOLO, NYEMBOMBO,
KISEMBOMBO), SEMALINGA, KWANGE, MAMBA (KYENYEMAMBA).
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Central, D, Lega-Kalanga (D.20). More information. |
| ZYOBA | [ZYO]
Alternate names: ZOBA. Dialects: VIRA,
MASANZE. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Lega-Kalanga
(D.20). More information. |
Extinct languages
| NGBEE | [NBL]
Orientale Province, scattered in Rungu, Niangara,
Wamba, and Watsa territories. Alternate names:
LINGBEE, LINGBE, MANGBELE, MAJUU. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Bira-Huku
(D.30). More information. |