Democratic Republic of the Congo
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Alur
[alz] Ituri province: Mahagi territory, northwest to Djalasiga area. Users: 750,000 in Democratic Republic of the Congo (Johnstone and Mandryk 2001). Total users in all countries: 1,735,000. Status: 5* (Developing). Alternate Names: Aloro, Alua, Alulu, DhuAlur, Dhʉ Alur, Jo Alur, Lur, Luri. Autonym: Dho Alur. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Core, Eastern Sudanic, Southern (n languages), Nilotic, Western, Luo, Southern, Luo-Acholi, Alur-Acholi, Alur.
Amba
[rwm] Nord-Kivu province: Uganda border area south of Lake Albert, northern Ruwenzori foothills. Users: 4,500 in Democratic Republic of the Congo (1991 SIL). Status: 6b* (Threatened). Alternate Names: Hambo, Humu, KiHumu, Kuamba, Kwamba, Ruwenzori Kibira, Rwamba. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Lega-Holoholo (D.22).
Asoa
[asv] Haut-Uele province: Rungu territory, Ituri forest. Users: 25,500 (2000). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Asua, Asuae, Asuati, “Aka” (pej.). Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Satellites, Central Sudanic, East, Mangbetu.
Aushi
[auh] Haut-Katanga province: east of Lubumbashi. Users: Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Avaushi, Baoussi, Ikyaushi, Ushi, Usi, Uzhili, Vouaousi. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, M, Bemba (M.402).
Avokaya
[avu] Haut-Uele province: Faradje territory, near Sudan border. Users: 25,000 in Democratic Republic of the Congo (1989 SIL). 2,000 Ojila, 10,000 Northern Ogambi. Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Abukeia, Avukaya. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Satellites, Central Sudanic, East, Moru-Madi, Central.
Babango
[bbm] Tshopo province: Basoko territory; some in Mongala province. Users: 2,550 (2000). Status: 6b* (Threatened). Alternate Names: Bango, Mobango, Southwest Bwa. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Ngombe (C.441).
Baka
[bdh] Haut-Uele province: Garamba National Park to Sudan border. Users: 1,300 in Democratic Republic of the Congo (1993 UBS). Status: 6b* (Threatened). Alternate Names: Tara Baaka. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Satellites, Central Sudanic, West, Bongo-Bagirmi, Bongo-Baka, Baka.
Bali
[bcp] Tshopo province: Bafwasende territory; Tshopo river south to Ituri river north, and Ituri river north bank. Users: 42,000 (1987 UBS). 2,100 monolinguals. Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Baali, Dhibali, Kibaali, Kibala, Kibali, Libaali, Southeast Bwa. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Lega-Holoholo (D.21).
Baloi
[biz] Equateur province: south, west, and east of Bomongo. Users: 20,000 (2002). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Baato Baloi, Boloi, Loi, Loi-Likila, Rebu. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Bangi-Ntomba (C.31).
Bamwe
[bmg] Sud-Ubangi province: Kungu territory, Mwanda collectivité, Ngiri river upper reaches Bomole, Botunia, Libobi, Lifunga, Likata, Lokutu, Mondongo, and Moniongo villages between Limpoko and Sombe villages. Users: 20,000 (1983 census). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Ngombe (C.412).
Banda, Mid-Southern
[bjo] Nord-Ubangi province: Bosobolo territory, north of Dubulu; Mobaye-Mbongo territory. Users: 2,000 in Democratic Republic of the Congo (1986 SIL). Status: 6b* (Threatened). Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Banda, Central, Central Core, Mid-Southern.
Banda, South Central
[lnl] Nord-Ubangi province. Users: 3,000 in Democratic Republic of the Congo. Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Banda, South Central.
Banda, Togbo-Vara
[tor] Nord-Ubangi province: Bosobolo territory, Badja and Baya towns, Bandema and Vongba II village areas to Gwara II. Users: 12,000 in Democratic Republic of the Congo (1984 census). Total users in all countries: 24,000. Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Banda, Central, Central Core, Togbo-Vara.
Bangala
[bxg] Bas-Uele, Haut-Uele, Ituri, and Tshopo provinces. Users: 3,500,000, all users. L1 users: Few L1 speakers. L2 users: 3,500,000 (1991 UBS). Status: 3 (Wider communication). Used as an LWC in Aru, Dungu, Faradje, and Watsa territories by all ethnic groups as a preferred market language. Alternate Names: Ngala. Autonym: Bangala. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Bangi-Ntomba (C.30).
Bangba
[bbe] Haut-Uele province: Niangara territory, Kopa collectivité; Watsa territory, Tora area. Users: 11,000 (1993 SIL). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Abangba. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Sere-Ngbaka-Mba, Ngbaka-Mba, Ngbaka, Eastern, Mayogo-Bangba.
Bangi
[bni] Equateur province: from Bolobo to Mbandaka. Users: 50,900 in Democratic Republic of the Congo (2000). Total users in all countries: 164,340. Status: 6a (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Bobangi, Bubangi, Dzamba, Lobobangi, Rebu, Zamba. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Bangi-Ntomba (C.32).
Bangubangu
[bnx] Maniema province: Kabambare territory; Sud-Kivu and Tanganyika provinces. Users: 246,000 (Tshonda 2011), including 85,000 Bangubangu, 30,000 Mikebwe, 20,000 Kasenga, 32,000 Nonda, and 4,000 Hombo ({Tshonda 2011}). Status: 6a (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Bangobango, Kibangobango, Kibangubangu. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Lega-Holoholo (D.27).
Barambu
[brm] Bas-Uele province: Poko territory, between Bomokandi and Uélé rivers. Users: 25,600 (1990 census). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Abarambo, Amiangba, Amiangbwa, Balambu, Barambo, Duga. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Zande, Barambo-Pambia.
Beeke
[bkf] Ituri province: Mambasa territory, Bandaka and Bombo collectivités, 1 village in each. Users: 1,000 (1994 SIL). Status: 8a (Moribund). Alternate Names: Babeeke, Beke, Ibeeke. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Bira-Nyali (D.335).
Bemba
[bem] Haut-Katanga province: east. Users: 300,000 in Democratic Republic of the Congo (2000). Status: 5* (Dispersed). Alternate Names: Chibemba, Chiwemba, Ichibemba, IciBemba, Wemba. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, M, Bemba (M.42).
Bembe
[bmb] Maniema province; Sud-Kivu province: Fizi territory, west of Lake Tanganyika. Users: 252,000 in Democratic Republic of the Congo (1991 UBS). Total users in all countries: 274,000. Status: 5* (Developing). Alternate Names: Beembe, Ebeembe, Ibembe. Autonym: Ebembe. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Bembe-Buyi (D.54).
Bendi
[bct] Ituri province: Djugu territory, between Bunia and Djalasiga. Users: 32,000 (1991 SIL). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Mabendi, Mabeni. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Satellites, Central Sudanic, East, Mangbutu-Efe.
Bhele
[bhy] Ituri province: several enclaves; Nord-Kivu province: Lubero territory, west of Butembo. Munjoa (Southern Bhele dialect). Users: 15,000 (1989). Status: 6b* (Threatened). Alternate Names: Bili, Ebhele, Ipere, Kipere, Kipili, Pere, Peri, Pili, Piri. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Bira-Nyali (D.31).
Bila
[bip] Ituri province: Irumu territory; Nord-Kivu province: northwest of Beni. Users: 40,000 (1993 SIL). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Ebila, Forest Bira, KiBila, Western Bila. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Bira-Nyali (D.311).
Binji
[bpj] Kasai-Central province: Kazumba territory; Sankuru province. Users: 165,000 (2000). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Bindji, Mbagani. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, L, Songe (L.231).
Bira
[brf] Ituri province: Irumu territory. Users: 120,000 (1992 SIL). Status: 6b* (Threatened). Alternate Names: Bera, Plains Bira, Sese, Sumbura, WaBira. Autonym: Kibira. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Bira-Nyali (D.32).
Boguru
[bqu] Haut-Uele province: Dungu territory, west of Garamba National Park. Users: Status: 8b (Nearly extinct). Alternate Names: Buguru, Guru, Kinsong, Kogoro, Koguru. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Bira-Nyali (D.302).
Boko
[bkp] Equateur province: Congo river upstream from Mbandaka. Users: 21,000. Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Iboko. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Ngondi (C.16).
Bolia
[bli] Equateur province: southeast of Lake Tumba; Mai-Ndombe province: north of Lake Mai-Ndombe. Users: 100,000 (2000). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Bokoki, Bulia. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Bangi-Ntomba (C.35).
Boloki
[bkt] Equateur province: Congo river, upstream from Mbandaka. Users: 4,200. Status: 6b (Threatened). Alternate Names: Baloki, Boleki, Buluki, River Ruki. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Bangi-Ntomba (C.36).
Bolondo
[bzm] Sud-Ubangi province: Budjala territory on Saw river south of Budjala, Bamba village area. Users: 3,000 (1983 census). Status: 6b* (Threatened). Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Bangi-Ntomba (C.302).
Boma
[boh] Kwilu province: Bagata territory; Mai-Ndombe province: Mushi territory. Users: 20,500 (2000). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Boma Kasai, Buma, Kiboma. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, B, Tiene-Yanzi (B.82).
Bomboli
[bml] Sud-Ubangi province: Kungu territory, Dongo collectivité, north of Bomongo on a canal flowing into Ngiri river, between Bokondo and Bodjinga villages. Users: 2,500 (1986 SIL). Status: 6b* (Threatened). Alternate Names: Bombongo. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Ngondi (C.161).
Bomboma
[bws] Sud-Ubangi province: Kungu territory, Bomboma collectivité between Bomboma and Bokonzi villages: Lingonda, Ebuku, Makengo, Ndzubele, Motuba villages. 7 villages. Users: 23,000 (1983 census). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Boba. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Ngombe (C.411).
Bozaba
[bzo] Sud-Ubangi province: Kungu territory, Mwanda collectivité, northwest of Ngiri and Mwanda rivers confluence. Users: 5,500 (1983 census). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Budzaba, Buzaba. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Ngondi (C.162).
Budu
[buu] Haut-Uele province: Wamba territory, 8 collectivités. Users: 180,000 (1991 SIL). Status: 5* (Developing). Alternate Names: Bodo, Budu-Koya, Ebudu, Kibudu, Ɨbʉdhʉ. Autonym: ɨɓʉdʉ. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Bira-Nyali (D.332).
Budza
[bja] Mongala province: Bumba territory and parts of Bongandanga territory; northwest Tshopo province. Users: 226,000 (1985 census). Status: 6a (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Budja, Buja, Ebuja, Embudja, Limbudza, Mbudja. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Bangi-Ntomba (C.37).
Buraka
[bkg] Nord-Ubangi province: Ubangi river area; north and northeast of Bosobolo. Users: 1,300 in Democratic Republic of the Congo. Status: 6b* (Threatened). Alternate Names: Boraka, Bouraka. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Sere-Ngbaka-Mba, Ngbaka-Mba, Ngbaka, Western, Gbanzili.
Bushoong
[buf] Kasai province: north Ilebo and Mweka territories. Users: 155,000 (2000). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Bakuba, Bamongo, Bukuba, Bushona, Bushong, Bushonga, Bushongo, Busoong, Ganga, Kuba, Mbale, Mongo, Shongo. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Bushoong (C.83).
Buyu
[byi] Maniema, Sud-Kivu, and Tanganyika provinces: Lake Tanganyika area. Users: 63,200 (2019 M. Kate-ke-sombe), all users. 63 villages. L1 users: 10,000 (2002). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Bujwe, Buyi, Kibuyu. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Bembe-Buyi (D.55).
Bwa
[bww] Bas-Uele province: Aketi, Bambesa, Bondo, and Buta territories; Tshopo province: Banalia territory; Nord-Ubangi province: northeastern, on Ubangi river, Buta is center; Bas-Uele province: Aketi and Bondo territories (Benge and Bati dialects), Tshopo province: Banalia territory (Kiba dialect). Users: 200,000 (1994 SIL). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Boa, Boua, Bua, Kibua, Kibwa, Libenge, Libua, Libwali, Ɓoa, ɓʉwa. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Ngombe (C.44).
Bwela
[bwl] Tshopo province. Users: 8,400 (2002). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Buela, Doko, Lingi. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Ngombe (C.42).
Bwile
[bwc] Haut-Katanga province: Pweto area north end of Lake Mweru. Users: 12,400 in Democratic Republic of the Congo (2002). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, M, Bemba (M.401).
Chokwe
[cjk] East Kwango, south Kasai, and Lualaba provinces: near Angola border. Users: 504,000 in Democratic Republic of the Congo (1990 UBS). Status: 5* (Dispersed). Alternate Names: Ciokwe, Cokwe, Djok, Imo, Shioko, Tchokwé, Tschiokwe, Tshokwe. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, K, Ciokwe-Luchazi (K.11).
Dengese
[dez] Kasai province: Dekese territory. Users: 8,600 (2000). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Ileo, Lengese, Ndengese, Nkutu. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Bushoong (C.81).
Ding
[diz] Kwilu province: Idiofa territory, on Kasaï river. Users: 155,000 (2002). Status: 6a (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Di, Din, Dinga, Dzing, Idiŋ, Idzing, Kedeŋ-Lesye, Kindinga. Autonym: Kidiŋ. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, B, Tiene-Yanzi (B.86).
Dongo
[doo] Haut-Uele province: east of Watsa. Users: 12,900 (2000). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Donga, Dongo Ko. Autonym: Dhɔ̀ngɔ̀kɔ́. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Sere-Ngbaka-Mba, Ngbaka-Mba, Mba.
Dzando
[dzn] Sud-Ubangi province: Kungu territory, Mwanda collectivité, Lokay, Maboko, Moliba, and Molunga villages between Ngiri and Mwanda rivers. Users: 6,000 (1983 census). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Ngombe (C.413).
Efe
[efe] Haut-Uele province: Watsa territory; Ituri province: Djugu, Irumu, and Mambasa territories; Nord-Kivu province: enclave north of Beni. Users: 20,000 (1991 SIL). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Satellites, Central Sudanic, East, Mangbutu-Efe.
Enya
[gey] Tshopo province: Ubundu territory, Lualaba river from Kisangani upriver to Kongolo. Users: 15,000 (2000). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Ena, Genya, Tsheenya. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Mbole-Enya (D.14).
Foma
[fom] Tshopo province: Congo river north side, upstream from Basoko. Users: 13,000 (2002). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Fuma, Lifoma, Pseudo-Bambole. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Soko-Kele (C.56).
French
[fra] Users: 15,500,000 in Democratic Republic of the Congo (2021 A. Dusséaux), L2 users. Status: 1 (National). Statutory national language (2006, Constitution, Article 1). Alternate Names: Français. Classification: Indo-European, Italic, Romance, Italo-Western, Western, Gallo-Iberian, Gallo-Romance, Gallo-Rhaetian, Oïl, French.
Fuliiru
[flr] Sud-Kivu province: Uvira territory, north and northwest of Uvira. Users: 400,000 (2012 SIL). Status: 5* (Developing). Alternate Names: Fulero, Fuliiro, Fuliru, Kifulero. Autonym: Kifuliiru. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, J, Ruanda-Rundi (D.63).
Furu
[fuu] Nord-Ubangi province: Bosobolo and Mobaye territories, east of Bosobolo. Users: 12,000 in Democratic Republic of the Congo (1984 census). Total users in all countries: 16,000. Status: 6a (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Bagero, Bagiro, Baguero, Baguiro, Fulu. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Satellites, Central Sudanic, West, Bongo-Bagirmi, Kara.
Gbanziri
[gbg] Nord-Ubangi province: Bosobolo territory, along Ubangi river. Users: 3,000 in Democratic Republic of the Congo (1986 SIL). Status: 6b* (Threatened). Alternate Names: Banziri, Gbandere, Gbanzili. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Sere-Ngbaka-Mba, Ngbaka-Mba, Ngbaka, Western, Gbanzili.
Gilima
[gix] Sud-Ubangi province: north Libenge territory in 3 groups: Bandi southwest, Bogon north, and Mbanza-Balakpa southeast. Users: 12,000 (1984 census). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Sere-Ngbaka-Mba, Ngbaka-Mba, Ngbaka, Western, Bwaka.
Gobu
[gox] Nord-Ubangi province: Bosobolo territory: between Borunu and Duguru on Sidi road, and Pandu area between Bele II and Denbili villages. Users: 12,000 in Democratic Republic of the Congo (1984 census). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Gabou, Gabu, Gubu, Ngobo, Ngobu. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Banda, Central, Central Core, Mid-Southern.
Hamba
[hba] Maniema province; Sankuru province: Lodja territory. Users: 13,000 (2002). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Tetela (C.71).
Havu
[hav] Nord-Kivu province; Sud-Kivu province: Idjwi and Kalehe territories. Users: 506,000 (2002). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Haavu, Kihavu. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, J, Shi-Hunde (D.52).
Hema
[nix] Ituri province: Djugu and Irumu territories. Users: 125,000 (2000). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Congo Nyoro, Hema-Sud, Kihema, Nyoro, Oruhuma, Runyoro, Southern Hema. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, J, Nyoro-Ganda (E.121).
Hemba
[hem] Maniema province: extreme south; Tanganyika province: east Kongolo territory. Users: 181,000 (2000). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Eastern Luba, Emba, Kiemba, Kihemba, Kiluba-Hemba, Luba-Hemba. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, L, Luba (L.34).
Holoholo
[hoo] Tanganyika province: northwest Kalemie area. Users: 15,500 (2002). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Guha, Horohoro, Kalanga, Kiholoholo, Kikalanga. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Lega-Holoholo (D.28).
Holu
[hol] Kwango province: extreme southwest corner. Users: 5,100 in Democratic Republic of the Congo. Status: 6b* (Threatened). Alternate Names: Holo, Hongu, Kiholo, Kiholu. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, L, Pende (L.12).
Hunde
[hke] Nord-Kivu province: Masisi and Rutshuru territories. Users: 200,000 (1980 UBS). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Kihunde, Kobi, Rukobi. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, J, Shi-Hunde (D.51).
Hungana
[hum] Kwango province: Kenge territory, Kolokoso sector; Kwilu Province: Bulungu-Kikwit territory, Kilunda, Kipuka, Kwenge, Kwilu-Kimbata, Luniungu, and Nko sectors. Users: 400. Status: 6b (Threatened). Alternate Names: Huana, Hungaan, Hungan, Hunganna, Kihungan, Kihungana. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, H, Mbala-Hunganna (H.42).
Iyansi
[yns] Kwango province; Kwilu province: Bagata, Bulungu-Kikwit, Masi-Manimba territories. Users: 100,000 (1997 S. Mufwene). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Eyansi, Eyanzi, Kiyanzi, Yans, Yansi, Yanzi. Autonym: Iyansi. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, B, Tiene-Yanzi (B.85).
Joba
[job] Sud-Kivu province: Uvira territory, north and northwest of Uvira. Users: 10,000 (1989 SIL). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Kijoba, Kivira, Loba, Vira. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, J, Ruanda-Rundi (D.631).
Kabwari
[kcw] Sud-Kivu province: Fizi territory. Users: 8,400 (2002). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Bwari. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, J, Shi-Hunde (D.56).
Kaiku
[kkq] Ituri province: Mambasa territory, Babombi collectivité; Nord-Kivu province: northern border. Users: 13,000 (2002). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Ekaeku, Ikaiku, Kaeku, Kaiko. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Bira-Nyali (D.312).
Kakwa
[keo] Haut-Uele province: Faradje territory; Ituri province: Aru territory, north of Aru. Users: 20,000 in Democratic Republic of the Congo. Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Bari Kakwa. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Core, Eastern Sudanic, Southern (n languages), Nilotic, Eastern, Bari.
Kaliko
[kbo] Ituri province: north Aru territory, along South Sudan border. Users: 7,500 in Democratic Republic of the Congo (1989 SIL). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Kaliko-Ma’di, Keliko, Ma’di, Maditi. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Satellites, Central Sudanic, East, Moru-Madi, Central.
Kango
[kzy] Tshopo province: Bafwasende territory, Bakundumu and Bemili collectivités. Users: 2,000 (1998 T. Harvey). Status: 6b* (Threatened). Alternate Names: Dikango, Kango Pygmy, Kikango, Likango, “Dibatchua” (pej.), “Kibatchua” (pej.). Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Lega-Holoholo (D.211).
Kango
[kty] Bas-Uele province: Uélé river banks and tributaries. Users: 5,900 (2002). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Likango. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Ngombe (C.403).
Kanu
[khx] Nord-Kivu province: Walikale territory, Kabunga area; some in Sud-Kivu province. Users: 3,500 (Welmers 1971a). Status: 6b* (Threatened). Alternate Names: Kaanu, Kano, Likanu. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Lega-Holoholo (D.251).
Kanyok
[kny] Lomami province: Mwene-Ditu territory, between Bushimaie and Luembe rivers. Users: 200,000 (1991 UBS). Status: 5* (Developing). Alternate Names: Kanioka, Kanyoka. Autonym: Kanyok. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, L, Luba (L.32).
Kaonde
[kqn] Haut-Katanga province: west; Lualaba province: east Kolwezi territory. Users: 36,000 in Democratic Republic of the Congo (1995). Status: 6b (Threatened). Alternate Names: Chikahonde, Chikaonde, Kahonde, Kawonde, kiiKaonde. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, L, Kaonde (L.41).
Kari
[kbj] North Bas-Uele province: scattered north of Uele river. Users: 1,000. May be nearly extinct (Dimmendaal and Voeltz 2007). Status: 8b (Nearly extinct). Alternate Names: Kare, Li-Kari-Li. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Bira-Nyali (D.301).
Kela
[kel] Sankuru province: Lomela territory. Users: 180,000 (1972 D. Barrett et al.). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Ikela, Lemba, Okela. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Tetela (C.75).
Kele
[khy] Tshopo province: Isangi territory, on Lomami and Congo rivers. Users: 160,000 (1980 UBS). Status: 5* (Developing). Alternate Names: Ekele, Kili, Likelo, Lokele, Yakusu. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Soko-Kele (C.55).
Kete
[kcv] Kasai-Central province: northeast of Mweka; Lomami province: south. Users: 8,400 (2002). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Ciket, Kikete, Lukete, Tshikete. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, L, Songe (L.21).
Kinyarwanda
[kin] Nord-Kivu province: Rwanda border lakes area; Sud-Kivu province: west of Bujumbura. Users: 250,000 in Democratic Republic of the Congo (UBS). Status: 5* (Dispersed). Alternate Names: Ikinyarwanda, Ruanda, Rwanda. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, J, Ruanda-Rundi (D.61).
Kituba
[ktu] Kwango and Kwilu provinces. Users: 5,000,000, all users. L1 users: 4,200,000 (1990 UBS). L2 users: 800,000. Status: 2 (Provincial). Statutory provincial language in Bas-Congo, Bandundu regions (2006, Constitution, Article 1(8)). Alternate Names: Kibulamatadi, Kikongo, Kikongo Commercial, Kikongo Simplifié, Kikongo-Kituba, Kikongo-Kutuba, Kileta. Autonym: Kikongo ya leta, Kituba. Classification: Creole, Kongo based.
Kobo
[okc] Nord-Kivu province: Walikale territory, 20 villages. Users: 50,000 (2014 SIL). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Ikobo. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, J, Konzo-Ndandi (D.40).
Komo
[kmw] Maniema province: Lubutu and Punia territories; Nord-Kivu province: Walikale; Tshopo province: Bafwasende territory, Opienge. Lubutu is center. Users: 400,000 (1998 SIL). Status: 6b (Threatened). Alternate Names: Kikumo, Kikumu, Kikuumu, Kumo, Kumu, Kuumu. Autonym: Kikomo. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Lega-Holoholo (D.23).
Kongo
Kongo, San Salvador
[kwy] Kongo Central province: Congo river area below Kinshasa. Users: 537,000 (2000). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Congo, Iwoyo, Kikoongo, Kisikongo. Autonym: Kikongo. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, H, Kikongo (H.16).
Konzo
[koo] Nord-Kivu province: west slope Ruwenzori Mountains. Users: Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Konjo. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, J, Konzo-Ndandi (D.41).
Koongo
[kng] Kinshasa province; Kongo Central province: Mbanza Manteke area; Fioti north of Boma, and scattered along Congo River from Brazzaville to its mouth. Users: 8,000,000 in Democratic Republic of the Congo, all users. L1 users: 3,000,000 in Democratic Republic of the Congo (1982 UBS). L2 users: 5,000,000. Total users in all countries: 11,236,500 (as L1: 6,236,500; as L2: 5,000,000). Status: 4 (Educational). Alternate Names: Congo, Kikoongo, Kongo. Autonym: Kikongo. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, H, Kikongo (H.16).
Kpala
[kpl] Nord-Ubangi province: Bosobolo territory; Sud-Ubangi territory: Libenge territory, scattered. Users: 3,000 (1986 SIL). Status: 6b* (Threatened). Alternate Names: Gbakpwa, Kpwaala, Kwala. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Sere-Ngbaka-Mba, Ngbaka-Mba, Ngbaka, Western, Monzombo.
Kusu
[ksv] Lomami province: west; Maniema province: southwest corner, Kibombo territory. Users: 100,000 (Tshonda 2011). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Fuluka, Kikusu, Kongola, Kutsu, Lokutsu. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Tetela (C.72).
Kwami
[ktf] Maniema and Nord-Kivu provinces: between Kasese and Walikale. Users: 400. Status: 6b* (Threatened). Alternate Names: Kikwame, Kikwami, Kwame. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Lega-Holoholo (D.251).
Kwese
[kws] Kwango province: Feshi territory; Kwilu province: Bulungu and Gungu territories. Users: 60,000. Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Kikwese, Kwezo, Pindi, Ukwese. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, L, Pende (L.13).
Lala-Bisa
[leb] Haut-Katanga province: extreme southeast corner. Users: Status: 5* (Developing). Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, M, Lala-Bisa-Lamba (M.51).
Lalia
[lal] Tshuapa province: Ikela territory, Loile, Lofume, Lokina, Tshwapa, and Tumbenga collectivités, Yalosaka is center. Some in Tshopo province. Users: 55,000 (1993). Status: 6a (Vigorous). Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Mongo-Nkundo (C.62).
Lamba
[lam] Haut-Katanga province: southeast corner, Lubumbashi area. Users: Status: 6b (Threatened). Alternate Names: Chilamba, Ichilamba. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, M, Lala-Bisa-Lamba (M.54).
Langbashe
[lna] Nord-Ubangi province: Bosobolo territory, along Ubangi river, Bada, Banga, Boduna, Sidi, and Zimango villages, scattered. Users: 3,000 in Democratic Republic of the Congo (1984 census). Status: 6b* (Threatened). Alternate Names: Langbase, Langbashi, Langbasi, Langbwasse, Langwasi. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Banda, South Central.
Lega-Mwenga
[lgm] Sud-Kivu province: Mwenga territory. Users: 44,900 (2000). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Ileka Ishile, Ishile, Isile, Kilega, Kirega, Lega-Ntara, Leka-Shile, Leka-Sile, Mwenga Lega, Rega, Shile. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Lega-Holoholo (D.25).
Lega-Shabunda
[lea] Maniema and Sud-Kivu provinces: Pangi and Shabunda territories; Nord-Kivu province: southwest. Users: 400,000 (1982 UBS). Status: 5* (Developing). Alternate Names: Igonzabale, Ileka-Igonzabale, Kilega, Kirega, Lega, Lega Shubanda, Lega-Malinga, Leka-Igonzabale, Rega, Shabunda Lega. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Lega-Holoholo (D.251).
Lele
[lel] Kasai province: west edge Ilebo and Tshikapa territories; extreme east Kwilu province. Users: 26,000 (Welmers 1971a). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Bashilele, Usilele. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Bushoong (C.84).
Lendu
[led] Ituri province: Djugu territory, west and northwest of Lake Albert. Users: 750,000 (1996 SIL). Status: 5* (Developing). Alternate Names: Bale, Baledha, Balendru, Baletha, Batha, Bbadha, Hema-Nord, Kihema-Nord, Kilendu. Autonym: Bbaledha. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Satellites, Central Sudanic, East, Lendu.
Lengola
[lej] Maniema province: Lubutu and Punia territories; Tshopo province: Ubundu territory. Lualaba river area between Opienge, Lowa, and a point called ‘Km 100’ on Kisangani-Lubutu road. Users: 100,000 (1998). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Kilengola, Lengora. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Mbole-Enya (D.12).
Lese
[les] Haut-Uele province: Watsa territory; Ituri province: Djugu, Irumu, and Mambasa territories; Nord-Kivu province: border enclave north of Beni. Users: 50,000 (1991 SIL). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Balese, Lesa, Lesse, Lissi, Mbuti, Walese, Walisi. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Satellites, Central Sudanic, East, Mangbutu-Efe.
Libinza
[liz] Equateur province: north Bomongo territory, Boniange and Monia villages on Mwanda and Ngiri rivers; on islands as far as Bomongo; Sud-Ubangi province: Kungu territory. Users: 10,000 (1986 SIL). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Binza, Libindja, Libinja. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Bangi-Ntomba (C.321).
Ligenza
[lgz] Bas-Uele province: Aketi territory (Benza dialect); Mongala province: small areas in Bumba territory. Users: 43,000 (1986 SIL). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Digenja, Gendja, Gendza-Bali, Ligendza. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Ngombe (C.414).
Lika
[lik] Haut-Uele province: Rungu territory, Mongomasi collectivité; Wamba territory, Balika-Toriko collectivité. Users: 60,000 (1989 SIL). 57,000 in Wamba Territory, 3,000 in Rungu Territory. Status: 5* (Developing). Alternate Names: Kilika, Kpongo, Liko, Mabiti, Maliko, Toriko. Autonym: Liliko. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Lega-Holoholo (D.201).
Likila
[lie] Equateur province: Makanza town area, Congo river north bank. Users: 8,400 (2002). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Balobo, Bangela. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Bangi-Ntomba (C.31).
Lingala
[lin] Widespread in Bas-Uele, Equateur, Haut-Uele, Kinshasa, Mai-Ndombe, Mongala, Nord-Ubangi, Orientale, Sud-Ubangi, and Tshopo provinces. Users: 40,000,000 in Democratic Republic of the Congo, all users. L1 users: 20,000,000 in Democratic Republic of the Congo (2021 M. Meeuwis). L2 users: 20,000,000 (2021 M. Meeuwis). Total users in all countries: 40,252,520 (as L1: 20,252,520; as L2: 20,000,000). Status: 2 (Provincial). Statutory provincial language in northwestern regions (2006, Constitution, Article 1(8)). Developed as a trade language around 1900 about halfway between Kinshasa and Kisangani. It then spread along the river, ultimately becoming entrenched in Kinshasa, where it has become the L1 of most people. Alternate Names: Ngala. Autonym: Lingala. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Bangi-Ntomba (C.30).
Lobala
[loq] Equateur province: Bomongo territory, Dongo northeast road to Mokusi village; Dongo road south following Ubangi river, and forest south and west; Sud-Ubangi province: Kungu territory. Users: 60,000 (2000 D. Morgan). Very few monolinguals. Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Autonym: Loɓala. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Ngondi (C.16).
Logo
[log] Haut-Uele province: Faradje territory, and Watsa town. Users: 210,000 (1989 SIL). 100,000 Ogambi. Status: 5* (Developing). Alternate Names: Logoti. Autonym: Lògòti. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Satellites, Central Sudanic, East, Moru-Madi, Central.
Lombi
[lmi] Nord-Kivu province: northwest; Tshopo province: Bafwasende territory, Barumi and Bekeni collectivités, Bangolu, Banguruye, and Opienge areas. Users: 12,000 (1993 SIL). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Lumbi, Odyalombito, Rombi, Rumbi, Rumli. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Satellites, Central Sudanic, East, Mangbetu.
Lombo
[loo] Tshopo province: Isangi area, both sides of Congo river. Users: 10,000 (Welmers 1971a). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Olombo, Turumbu, Ulumbu. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Soko-Kele (C.54).
Lonzo
[lnz] Kwango province: Kenge territory. Users: 300. Status: 6b* (Threatened). Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, H, Yaka (H.31).
Luba-Kasai
[lua] Kasai-Oriental; Kasai province: southeastern third; Sankuru province. Users: 7,000,000 in Democratic Republic of the Congo, all users. L1 users: 6,300,000 in Democratic Republic of the Congo (1991 UBS). L2 users: 700,000. Total users in all countries: 7,060,000 (as L1: 6,360,000; as L2: 700,000). Status: 2 (Provincial). Statutory provincial language in Kasai Region (2006, Constitution, Article 1(8)). Alternate Names: Bena-Lulua, Ciluba, Luba-Lulua, Luva, Western Luba. Autonym: Tshiluba. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, L, Luba (L.31).
Luba-Katanga
[lub] Haut-Lomami province; Sankuru province: southeast. Users: 1,510,000 (1991 UBS). Status: 6b (Threatened). Alternate Names: Luba, Luba-Shaba. Autonym: Kiluba. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, L, Luba (L.33).
Lugbara
[lgg] Ituri province: Aru territory, 6 collectivités. Users: 840,000 in Democratic Republic of the Congo (Johnstone and Mandryk 2001). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: High Lugbara, Lugbarati, Lʉgbara tɨ. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Satellites, Central Sudanic, East, Moru-Madi, Central.
Luna
[luj] Sankuru province: Lusambo territory. Users: 50,000. Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Inkongo, Kuba, Luna-Inkongo, Northern Luba. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, L, Songe (L.24).
Lunda
[lun] Kwango province: southeast, Kahemba territory; Lualaba province. Users: Status: 5* (Dispersed). Alternate Names: chiLunda. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, L, Lunda (L.52).
Lusengo
[lse] Equateur province: Makanza territory; Mongala province: Bumba and Lisala territories, Congo river area. Users: 42,000 (2002). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Losengo. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Bangi-Ntomba (C.36).
Lwalu
[lwa] Kasai-Central province: Luiza territory. Users: 21,000 in Democratic Republic of the Congo (Welmers 1971a). Total users in all countries: 41,000. Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Lwalwa. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, L, Songe (L.221).
Ma
[msj] Haut-Uele province: north of Niangara, near Kapili river. Users: 4,700 (Voegelin and Voegelin 1977). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Amadi, Madi, Madyo. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Sere-Ngbaka-Mba, Ngbaka-Mba, Mba.
Mabaale
[mmz] Equateur province: Ngiri river area. Users: 42,000 (2002). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Lomabaale, Mabale, Mbali. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Bangi-Ntomba (C.311).
Mamvu
[mdi] Haut-Uele province: Watsa territory, west and southwest of Watsa. Users: 60,000 (1991 SIL). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Autonym: Tengo. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Satellites, Central Sudanic, East, Mangbutu-Efe.
Mangbetu
[mdj] Bas-Uele province: Poko territory; Haut-Uele province: Niangara, Rungu, Wamba, and Watsa territories; Tshopo province: northeast corner of Banalia territory. Haut-Uele province: Wamba territory (Aberu dialect); Tshopo province: Banalia territory (Popoi dialect). Users: 620,000. Status: 5* (Developing). Alternate Names: Amangbetu, Kingbetu, Mambetto, Mangbɛtʉ, Mangbettu, Mangbέtʉ, Nemangbetu. Autonym: Nɛ́mangbɛtʉ. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Satellites, Central Sudanic, East, Mangbetu.
Mangbutu
[mdk] Haut-Uele province: Watsa territory, south of Kibali river and east of Moto river. Users: 15,000 (1991 SIL). 1,200 Andinai. Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Mangu-Ngutu, Mombuttu, Wambutu. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Satellites, Central Sudanic, East, Mangbutu-Efe.
Mayeka
[myc] Nord-Ubangi province: border area with Central African Republic, Congo river vicinity. Users: 21,000 (2004). Ethnic population: 25,500 (2000). Status: 8a (Moribund). Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Bira-Nyali (D.307).
Mayogo
[mdm] Haut-Uele province: Isiro area, mostly Rungu and Wamba territories. Users: 100,000 (1991 SIL). Status: 5* (Developing). Alternate Names: Kiyogo, Madyɵgɵ́, Maigo, Maiko, Majugu, Mayko, Mayugo, Màdìmádòkò. Autonym: Madyɵgɵ. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Sere-Ngbaka-Mba, Ngbaka-Mba, Ngbaka, Eastern, Mayogo-Bangba.
Mba
[mfc] Tshopo province: Banalia territory, Banjwade area. Users: 36,100 (2000). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Kimanga, Kimbanga, Manga, Mbane. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Sere-Ngbaka-Mba, Ngbaka-Mba, Mba.
Mbala
[mdp] Kwilu province: Bulungu-Kikwit territory, Kipuka, Kwilu-Kimbata, and Luniungu sectors; Masi-Manimba territory, Bindungi, Kinzenga, Kitoy, Mokamo, Mosango, Pay-Kongila, and Sungu sectors. Users: 200,000 (Nida 1972). Status: 6a (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Rumbala. Autonym: Gimbala. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, H, Mbala-Hunganna (H.41).
Mbandja
[zmz] Sud-Ubangi, Nord-Ubangi, and west Mongala provinces. Users: 352,000 in Democratic Republic of the Congo (2000). Total users in all countries: 367,400. Status: 5* (Developing). Alternate Names: Mbandza, Mbanja, Mbanza. Autonym: Mbandja. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Banda, Southern.
Mbesa
[zms] Tshopo province: north Yahuma territory, south of Congo river. Users: 8,400 (2002). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Mobesa, Mombesa. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Soko-Kele (C.51).
Mbo
[zmw] Ituri province: Mambasa territory, Bombo collectivité; some in Nord-Kivu province. Users: 11,000 (1994 SIL). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Imbo, Kimbo. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Bira-Nyali (D.334).
Mbole
[mdq] Tshopo province: southwest of Kisangani; Tshuapa province: east. Users: 100,000 (Welmers 1971a). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Lombole. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Mbole-Enya (D.11).
Mfinu
[zmf] Kinshasa province. Users: 8,400 (2002). Status: 7 (Shifting). Alternate Names: Emfinu, Funika, Mfununga. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, B, Tiene-Yanzi (B.83).
Mituku
[zmq] Tshopo province: Ubundu territory, west of Lualaba river. Users: 50,900 (2000). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Kinya-Mituku, Metoko. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Mbole-Enya (D.13).
Moingi
[mwz] Tshopo province: Yahuma territory, south of Congo river, opposite Basoko town. Users: 4,200 (2002). Status: 6b* (Threatened). Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Unclassified.
Mongo-Nkundu
[lol] Equateur province: south half; Mai-Ndombe province: northeast; Tshuapa province: west half. Users: 400,000 (1995). Status: 5* (Developing). Alternate Names: Lomongo, Mongo. Autonym: Lɔmɔngɔ. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Mongo-Nkundo (C.61).
Mono
[mnh] Nord-Ubangi province: Bosobolo territory; Sud-Ubangi province: some in Libenge territory. Bili is center. Users: 65,000 (1984 census). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Amono. Autonym: Mɔnɔ. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Banda, Central, Central Core, Mid-Southern.
Monzombo
[moj] Sud-Ubangi province: Ubangi river east bank, south of Libenge. Users: 5,000 in Democratic Republic of the Congo (1986 SIL). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). 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.
Mpuono
[zmp] Kwilu province: Bulungu-Kikwit, Gungu, and Idiofa territories. Users: 165,000 (Nida 1972). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Mbuun. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, B, Tiene-Yanzi (B.84).
Mündü
[muh] Haut-Uele province: north and northeast of Faradje. Users: 2,800 in Democratic Republic of the Congo. Status: 6a (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Mondo, Mountou, Mundo. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Sere-Ngbaka-Mba, Ngbaka-Mba, Ngbaka, Eastern, Mundu.
Mvuba
[mxh] Nord-Kivu province: Beni territory, Oicha area. Users: 5,100 in Democratic Republic of the Congo (2000). Total users in all countries: 7,980. Status: 6b* (Threatened). Alternate Names: Bambuba, Bamvuba, Mbuba, Mvuba-A, Obiye. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Satellites, Central Sudanic, East, Mangbutu-Efe.
Nande
[nnb] Ituri province: southeast; Nord-Kivu province: mainly Beni and Lubero territories. Users: 903,000 (1991 UBS). Status: 5* (Developing). Alternate Names: Banande, Bayira, Kinandi, Nandi, Ndande, Ndandi, Northern Nande, Orundande. Autonym: Kinande. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, J, Konzo-Ndandi (D.42).
Ndaka
[ndk] Ituri province: Mambasa territory, Bandaka collectivité, along Bunia to NiaNia road. Users: 25,000 (1994 SIL). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Indaaka, Ndaaka. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Bira-Nyali (D.333).
Ndo
[ndp] Ituri province: Aru and Mahagi territories, south of Lowa river, west and northwest of Djalasiga. Oke’bu dialect on Uganda border. Users: 100,000 in Democratic Republic of the Congo. Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Ke’bu, Kebutu, Ndu, Oke’bu. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Satellites, Central Sudanic, East, Mangbutu-Efe.
Ndobo
[ndw] Equateur province: between Bomongo and Congo rivers. Users: 10,200 (2000). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Ndoobo. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Bangi-Ntomba (C.312).
Ndolo
[ndl] Sud-Ubangi province: Budjala territory, Ndolo-Liboko collectivité; Moeko river, south of Budjala between Ndama and Bokala villages, and Lisombo and Tando villages. Users: 8,000 (1983 census). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Mosange, Ndoolo, Tando. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Bangi-Ntomba (C.36).
Ndrulo
[dno] Ituri province: Mahagi territory, Walendu Watsi collectivity. Users: 126,800 in Democratic Republic of the Congo, all users. L1 users: 87,200 in Democratic Republic of the Congo (2018 SIL). L2 users: 39,600 (2018 SIL). Total users in all countries: 145,700 (as L1: 106,100; as L2: 39,600). Status: 5* (Developing). Alternate Names: Ddradha, Ddraló, Ndralo, “Lendu North” (pej.), “Lendu-Ndrŭló” (pej.). Autonym: Ndrŭló. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Satellites, Central Sudanic, East, Lendu.
Ndunga
[ndt] Mongala province: Lisala territory, 8 villages. Users: 2,500 (Voegelin and Voegelin 1977). Status: 6b* (Threatened). Alternate Names: Bondonga, Modunga, Mondugu, Mondunga. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Sere-Ngbaka-Mba, Ngbaka-Mba, Mba.
Ngando
[nxd] Tshopo province; Tshuapa province: Maringa river area, north of Ikela. Users: 220,000 (1995). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Bongando, Longandu, Ngandu. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Mongo-Nkundo (C.63).
Ngbaka
[nga] Sud-Ubangi province: Gemena territory area, 850 villages. Users: 1,010,000 in Democratic Republic of the Congo (2000). 600,000 monolinguals. Total users in all countries: 1,016,650. Status: 5 (Developing). Alternate Names: Ngbaka Gbaya, Ngbaka Minagende. Autonym: Ngbaka. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Gbaya-Manza-Ngbaka, East.
Ngbaka Ma’bo
[nbm] Sud-Ubangi province: Libenge territory, on the road north and south of Zongo town, and a belt north of Libenge. Users: 11,000 in Democratic Republic of the Congo (1984 census). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Bouaka, Bwaka, Gbaka, Gwaka, Ma’bo, Mbacca, Mbaka, Mbwaka, Nbwaka, Ngbaka Limba. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Sere-Ngbaka-Mba, Ngbaka-Mba, Ngbaka, Western, Bwaka.
Ngbandi, Northern
[ngb] Bas-Uele province: Bondo territory; Nord-Ubangi province: Businga, Mobayi-Mbongo, and Yakoma territories. Users: 250,000 in Democratic Republic of the Congo (2000 SIL). 75,000 monolinguals. Total users in all countries: 250,290. Status: 5* (Developing). Alternate Names: Baza, Mongwandi, Ngbandi du Nord, Ngwandi. Autonym: Ngbandi. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Ngbandi.
Ngbandi, Southern
[nbw] Sud-Ubangi province: Budjala, Kungu, and Libenge territories. Users: 105,000. Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Mbati, Mongbandi, Mongwandi, Ngbandi-Sud, Ngwandi. Autonym: Ngbandi-Ngiri. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Ngbandi.
Ngbee
[jgb] Haut-Uele province: scattered in Rungu, Niangara, Wamba, and Watsa territories. Users: No known L1 speakers. The last speaker probably died by the 1960s (Sommer 1992). Status: 10 (Extinct). Alternate Names: Lingbe, Lingbee, Majuu, Mangbele, li-Ngbee. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Bira-Nyali (D.336).
Ngbinda
[nbd] Nord-Ubangi province. Users: 4,200 (2002). Status: 8b (Nearly extinct). Alternate Names: Bangbinda, Bungbinda, Ngminda. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Bira-Nyali (D.303).
Ngbundu
[nuu] Sud-Ubangi province: Libenge territory, north of Libenge, from Boyabo crossroads east to Budu and north to Oro; south of Libenge, mixed with Mbandja [zmz] and other language groups. Users: 16,000 (1984 census). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Banda, Southwestern.
Ngelima
[agh] Tshopo province: Banalia and Basoko territories. Users: 13,600 (2000). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Angba, Bangalema, Bangelima, Leangba. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Ngombe (C.45).
Ngiti
[niy] Ituri province: Irumu territory, south of Bunia. Users: 100,000 (1991). Status: 5* (Developing). Alternate Names: Bindi, Dru, Druna, Kingeti, Kingiti, Lendu-Sud, Ngeti. Autonym: Ndruna. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Satellites, Central Sudanic, East, Lendu.
Ngombe
[ngc] Mongala province and adjacent parts of Sud-Ubangi and Equateur provinces. Widespread along both sides of the Congo River, possibly some in Tshopo province. Users: 150,000 (Welmers 1971a). Status: 6a (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Lingombe. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Ngombe (C.41).
Ngongo
[noq] Kwilu province: Bulungu-Kikwit and Masi-Manimba territories. Users: 4,080 (2000). Status: 6a (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Ngong. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, B, Tiene-Yanzi (B.864).
Ngul
[nlo] Kwilu province: Idiofa territory, Bulwem and Kapia sectors, Mangai town. Users: 8,400 (2002). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Ingul, Ngoli, Nguli, Ngulu, Ngwii. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, B, Tiene-Yanzi (B.861).
Ngundu
[nue] Nord-Ubangi province. Users: 5,100 (2000). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Banda, Central, Central Core, Mid-Southern.
Nkutu
[nkw] Sankuru province. Users: 40,000 (Nida 1972). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Bankutu, Nkuchu, Nkucu, Nkutshu. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Tetela (C.73).
Ntomba
[nto] Equateur province: near Lake Tumba; Mai-Ndombe province: Lake Mai-Ndombe area. Users: 100,000 (1980 UBS). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Lontomba, Luntumba, Ntomba-Bolia, Ntumba. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Bangi-Ntomba (C.35).
Nyali
[nlj] Ituri province: Djugu territory, Kilo collectivité. Users: 43,000 (1993 SIL). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Huku, Linyali, North Nyali, Nyali-Kilo, Nyari. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Bira-Nyali (D.33).
Nyanga
[nyj] Nord-Kivu province: Walikale territory, Wanyanga collectivité. Users: 150,000 (1994 census). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Inyanga, Kinyanga. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Nyanga (D.43).
Nyanga-li
[nyc] Haut-Uele province: Watsa territory, southwest of Watsa. Between Isiro and Watsa, north of Mungbere (Gbati-ri dialect). Users: 69,000 (2002). 21,000 Gbati-ri (2002). Status: 8a (Moribund). Alternate Names: Linyanga-le. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Bira-Nyali (D.305).
Nyindu
[nyg] Sud-Kivu province: west of Lake Kivu. Users: 8,400 (2002), decreasing. Status: 6b (Threatened). Autonym: Kinyindu. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, J, Shi-Hunde (D.501).
Nzadi
[nzd] Kasai province: Ilebo territory, Mapangu sector; Kwilu province: Idiofa territory, Kapia and Sedzo sectors. Users: Several thousand speakers (2017 I. Maddieson). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: indzéé. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, B, Tiene-Yanzi (B.865).
Nzakara
[nzk] Bas-Uele province: northwest Bondo territory, on Central African Republic border. Users: Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Ansakara, N’sakara, Nzakala, Sakara, Zakara. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Zande, Zande-Nzakara.
Ombo
[oml] Maniema province: northwest of Kindu; some in Tshopo province. Users: 8,400 (2002). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Hombo, Loombo, Songola. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Tetela (C.76).
Omi
[omi] Ituri province: Aru territory, between Nzoro and Lowa rivers along Aru to Aba road. Users: 91,000 (2005 SIL). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Kaliko-Omi. Autonym: Òmíti. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Satellites, Central Sudanic, East, Moru-Madi, Central.
Pagibete
[pae] Mongala province: Bumba territory; Nord-Ubangi province: Businga and Yakoma territories. Nord-Ubangi province: along road south of Businga (Mongbapele dialect); Nord-Ubangi province: Yakoma territory, Butu, around Ngakpo on Dua river north side, across from Gumba (Momveda dialect); Mongala province: north Bumba territory, south of Butu and at Ndundu-Sana (Ndundusana dialect). Users: 28,000 (2000 SIL). 6,000 Momveda, 4,500 Mongbapele. Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Apagibete, Apagibeti, Apakabeti, Apakibeti, Pakabete. Autonym: Pagabete. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Ngombe (C.401).
Pambia
[pmb] Bas-Uele province. Users: 21,000 (1982 SIL). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Apambia. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Zande, Barambo-Pambia.
Pelende
[ppp] Kwango province: Kenge territory. Users: 8,400 (2002). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, H, Yaka (H.31).
Phende
[pem] Kwango province: Feshi territory, northeast; Kwilu province: Gungu and Idiofa territories; Kasai province: Kamonia territory, Tshikapa. Users: 420,000 (1991 UBS). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Gipende, Giphende, Kipende, Pende, Pheende, Pindi, Pinji. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, L, Pende (L.11).
Poke
[pof] Tshopo province: Isangi territory, south of Congo river downstream from Kisangani. Users: 46,000 (Welmers 1971a). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Pfoke, Puki, Tofoke, Topoke, Tovoke. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Soko-Kele (C.53).
Ruund
[rnd] Lomami province: small border area south; Lualaba province: west. Users: 153,000 in Democratic Republic of the Congo (2000). Total users in all countries: 251,500. Status: 5* (Developing). Alternate Names: Chiluwunda, Kilunda, Kiluunda, Lunda Kambove, Lunda-Kamboro, Luunda, Luwunda, Muatiamvua, Northern Lunda, Ru-unda. Autonym: Uruund. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, L, Lunda (L.53).
Sakata
[skt] Mai-Ndombe province: Inongo, Kutu, and Mushie territories, Lukenie river, and Semendua area. Users: 75,000 (1982 UBS). Status: 6a (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Kisakata, Lesa, Odual, Saka. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Bangi-Ntomba (C.34).
Salampasu
[slx] Kasai-Central province: southest, east of Luiza. Users: 60,000 (Voegelin and Voegelin 1977). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Chisalampasu. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, L, Lunda (L.51).
Samba
[smx] Kwango province: Feshi, Kasongo-Lunda, Kenge, and Popokabaka territories; Kwilu province: Bulungu-Kikwit and Masi-Manimba territories. Users: 4,200 (2002). Status: 6b* (Threatened). Alternate Names: Saamba, Shankadi, Tsaam, Tsamba, Usamba. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, L, Pende (L.12).
Sanga
[sng] Haut-Katanga province: north of Likasi, dispersed in Mitwaba and Pweto territories; Lualaba province: Lubudi territory. Users: 431,000 (1991 UBS). Status: 5* (Developing). Alternate Names: Garengaze, Kiluba, Luba-Garenganze, Luba-Sanga, Southern Luba. Autonym: Kisanga. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, L, Luba (L.35).
Sango
[sag] Nord-Ubangi province: extreme north border on Oubangui river. Users: Few in Democratic Republic of the Congo. Status: 3 (Wider communication). Alternate Names: Sangho. Classification: Creole, Ngbandi based.
Seba
[kdg] Haut-Katanga province: Kasenga territory. Users: 167,000 (2002). Status: 6b* (Threatened). Alternate Names: Kunda, Sewa, Shishi. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, M, Lala-Bisa-Lamba (M.55).
Sengele
[szg] Mai-Ndombe province: west of Lake Mai-Ndombe. Users: 17,000 (2002). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Kesengele, Sengere. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Bangi-Ntomba (C.33).
Sere
[swf] Bas-Uele province: northeast of Ango, among the Zande [zne]. Users: 2,500 in Democratic Republic of the Congo. Total users in all countries: 2,528. Status: 8b (Nearly extinct). Alternate Names: Basili, Basiri, Chere, Serre, Shaire, Shere, Sheri, Sili, Siri. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Sere-Ngbaka-Mba, Sere, Sere-Bviri, Ndogo-Sere.
Shi
[shr] Sud-Kivu province: north, west, and south of Bukavu. Users: 654,000 (1991 UBS). Status: 5* (Developing). Alternate Names: Kishi, Nyabungu. Autonym: Mashi. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, J, Shi-Hunde (D.53).
So
[soc] Tshopo province: north of Basoko. Users: 6,000 (Welmers 1971a). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Eso, Gesogo, Heso, Soa, Soko. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Soko-Kele (C.52).
Sonde
[shc] Kwango province: Feshi territory. Users: 96,000 (2002). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Kilua, Kisonde, Kisoonde, Soonde. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, H, Yaka (H.321).
Songe
[sop] Lomami province: mainly Kabinda territory; Sankuru province: between Lualaba and Sankuru rivers; Tanganyika province: Kabolo and Kongolo territories; Kasai and Maniema provinces. Users: 1,000,000 (Hoffman 1991). 150,000 in Western Kalebwe (1982 UBS). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Kalebwe, Kisonge, Kisongi, Kisongye, Luba-Songi, Lusonge, Northeast Luba, Songye, Yembe. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, L, Songe (L.23).
Songo
[soo] Kwilu province: Bulungu-Kikwit territory. Users: 13,000 (2002). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Itsong, Kisongo, Nsong, Ntsuo, Tsong. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, B, Tiene-Yanzi (B.85).
Songomeno
[soe] Kasai province: Dekese territory. Users: 50,000 (Barrett 1982). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Hendo, Lohendo. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Bushoong (C.82).
Songoora
[sod] Maniema province: Kindu, Punia, and Shabunda territories, small area in Sud-Kivu province. Maniema province: Kindu territory (Gengele dialect). Users: 49,600 (2019 M. Kate-ke-sombe), all users. 152 villages. L1 users: 1,300 (Welmers 1971a). Status: 6b* (Threatened). Alternate Names: Binja, Kesongola, Songola. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Lega-Holoholo (D.24).
Suku
[sub] Kwango province: Feshi and Kasongo-Lunda territories; Kwilu province: Bulungu-Kikwit and Masi-Manimba territories. Users: 50,000 in Democratic Republic of the Congo (1980 UBS). Total users in all countries: 80,000. Status: 6a (Vigorous). Autonym: Kisuku. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, H, Yaka (H.32).
Swahili, Congo
[swc] Widespread in Haut-Katanga, Haut-Lomami, Ituri, Lualaba, Maniema, Nord-Kivu, Sud-Kivu, and Tanganyika provinces. Users: 11,100,000 in Democratic Republic of the Congo, all users. L1 users: 2,000,000 in Democratic Republic of the Congo (2019). L2 users: 9,100,000 (1991 UBS). Total users in all countries: 11,143,000 (as L1: 2,043,000; as L2: 9,100,000). Status: 2 (Provincial). Statutory provincial language in eastern regions (2006, Constitution, Article 1(8)). Alternate Names: Zaïre Swahili. Autonym: Kiswahili. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, G, Swahili (G.40).
Taabwa
[tap] Tanganyika province: on Lake Tanganyika, south of Moba. Users: 250,000 in Democratic Republic of the Congo (Barrett 1982). Total users in all countries: 281,600. Status: 5* (Developing). Alternate Names: Ichitaabwa, Kitabwa, Lungu, Rungu, Taabua, Tabwa, Zabwa. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, M, Bemba (M.41).
Tagbu
[tbm] Scattered. Users: 17,000 (2002). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Tagba, Tagbo. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Sere-Ngbaka-Mba, Sere, Sere-Bviri, Ndogo-Sere.
Talinga-Bwisi
[tlj] Nord-Kivu province: Beni territory, Butalinga county, Virunga National Park boundary, up to Uganda border. Users: 30,900 in Democratic Republic of the Congo (2000). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Bwisi, Kitalinga, Lubwisi, Lubwissi, Mawissi, Olubwisi, Talinga. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, J, Nyoro-Ganda (E.102).
Teke, Eboo
[ebo] Mai-Ndombe province: Mushie territory. Users: Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Aboo. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, B, Teke (B.74).
Teke, Ibali
[tek] Kinshasa and Mai-Ndombe provinces. Users: 167,000 in Democratic Republic of the Congo (2000). Total users in all countries: 203,200. Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Bali, Eastern Teke, Ibali, Kiteke, Teke-Ibali. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, B, Teke (B.75).
Tembo
[tbt] Nord-Kivu and Sud-Kivu provinces: Kalehe territory. Users: 150,000 (1994 SIL). Status: 5* (Developing). Alternate Names: ChiTembo, Kitembo. Autonym: Chitembo. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, J, Shi-Hunde (D.531).
Tembo
[tmv] Equateur province: Bomongo territory, 1 or 2 villages on Mongala river southwest of Akula; Sud-Ubangi province: Budjala territory, Bokele, Bosanga, and Libanza villages on Banga-Melo river; Sumba island. Users: 5,000 (1986 SIL). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Litembo, Motembo. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Bangi-Ntomba (C.371).
Tetela
[tll] Sankuru province; border areas of Haut-Lomami, Tshopo, and Tshuapa provinces. Users: 750,000 (1991 UBS). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Otetela, Sungu. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Tetela (C.71).
Tiene
[tii] Mai-Ndombe province: Bolobo area on Congo river, inland savannah and forest. Users: 24,500 (1977 SIL). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Kitiene, Kitiini, Tende. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, B, Tiene-Yanzi (B.81).
Vanuma
[vau] Ituri province: Irumu territory, Tchabi collectivité; Nord-Kivu province. Users: 6,700 (1993 SIL). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Bambutuku, Bvanuma, Livanuma, Nyali-Tchabi, South Nyali. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Bira-Nyali (D.331).
Wongo
[won] Kasai province: Ilebo and Tshikapa territories; Kwilu province: Idiofa territory, Belo, Kipuku, and Musanga-Idiofa sectors. Users: 12,700 (2000). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Bakong, Gongo, Kiwongo, Ndjembe, Tukkongo, Tukongo, Tukungo, Wonk. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Bushoong (C.85).
Yaka
[yaf] Kwango province: Kasongo, Lunda, and Popokabaka territories. Users: 700,000 in Democratic Republic of the Congo (2000 SIL). Total users in all countries: 900,000. Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Iaka, Iyaka, Kiyaka. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, H, Yaka (H.31).
Yakoma
[yky] Nord-Ubangi province. Users: 10,000 in Democratic Republic of the Congo. Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Ngbandi.
Yamongeri
[ymg] Equateur province: south of Congo river. Users: 13,000 (2002). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Yamongiri. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Bangi-Ntomba (C.36).
Yango
[yng] Sud-Ubangi province: Kungu and Libenge territories, Gbendere village, Esobe river area. Users: 3,000 (1986 SIL). Status: 6a (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Gbendere. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Sere-Ngbaka-Mba, Ngbaka-Mba, Ngbaka, Western, Monzombo.
Yela
[yel] Sankuru province; Tshuapa province: mainly Bokungu territory. Users: 33,000 (Voegelin and Voegelin 1977). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Boyela, Kutu. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, C, Tetela (C.74).
Yombe
[yom] Kongo Central province: west in Mayombe forest. Users: 669,000 in Democratic Republic of the Congo (2002). Total users in all countries: 734,400. Status: 5* (Developing). Alternate Names: Bayombe, Ciyoombe, Kiombi, Kiyombe, Yoombe. Autonym: Kiyoombi. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, H, Kikongo (H.16).
Yulu
[yul] Haut-Lomami province: near Kamina. Users: 3,000 in Democratic Republic of the Congo (2011 SIL). Status: 6b* (Threatened). Alternate Names: Youlou. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Satellites, Central Sudanic, West, Bongo-Bagirmi, Kara.
Zande
[zne] Bas-Uele and northern Haut-Uele provinces. Users: 730,000 in Democratic Republic of the Congo. Total users in all countries: 1,892,000 (as L1: 1,792,000; as L2: 100,000). Status: 5* (Developing). Alternate Names: Asande, Azande, Badjande, Bazande, Bazenda, Kizande, Pa-Dio, Pazande, Sande, Zandi, pa Zande, paZande. Autonym: Pa-Zande. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Zande, Zande-Nzakara.
Zimba
[zmb] Maniema province: Kasongo territory, Maringa and Mulu collectivités; small area in Sud-Kivu province. Users: 120,000 (1994 census). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Nyangwe. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Lega-Holoholo (D.26).
Zula
[zla] Maniema province: Kasongo territory, Wazula collectivité. Users: 25,000 (2020 SIL). Status: 6a (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Ba-Shuula, Kishuula, Shuula, Wa-Zula, Zura. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Mbolle-Enya (D.141).