Mbugu

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A language of Tanzania

ISO 639-3
mhd
Alternate Names
Kibwayo, Kibwyo, Kimaa, Kimbugu, Ma’a, Mbougou, Wa Maathi, Wa-Ma’a, Wama’a
User Population

7,000 (1997). Ethnic population: 32,000.

Location

Tanga region: Lushoto district, Usambara mountains.

Language Maps
Language Status

7 (Shifting).

Classification
Mixed language, Bantu-Cushitic
Dialects

Inner Mbugu (Mbugu cha ndani), Normal Mbugu (Mbugu cha kawaida).

Language Use

Shifting to Swahili [swh]. Also use Asu [asa]. Also use Shambala [ksb].

Language Resources
OLAC resources in and about Mbugu
Writing

Unwritten [Qaax].

Other Comments

A mixed language; Bantu inflectional (prefix and concord) system with Cushitic vocabulary. Derivational morphemes are Bantu and Cushitic (or non-Bantu). The Bantu influence is from Pare and Shambala.