Shabo

Primary tabs

Chabu, Sabu, “Mekeyer” (pej.), “Mikair” (pej.), “Mikeyir” (pej.), “Shako” (pej.)

400 (2000 M. Brenzinger), decreasing. Ethnic population: 600 (2000).

Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples’ region: Sheka zone; Oromia region: Illubabor zone.

Language Maps

6b (Threatened).

None known. Distinct from Sheko [she]. Lexical similarity: 30% with Majang [mpe], 12% with other West Cushitic (Omotic) languages.

SOV; postpositions; gender in all 3 persons.

Most domains. Some young people, all adults. Neutral attitudes. Also use Majang [mpe]. Also use Shekkacho [moy].

Unwritten [Qaax].

They live in family units, not villages. Traditional religion.