Epena

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A language of Colombia

ISO 639-3
sja
Alternate Names
Cholo, Embena, Embera, Emberá-Saija, Epená Saija, Saija, Southern Empera
Autonym
Epéna Pedée, Eperã pedee
User Population

3,500 in Colombia (2004 IMB), increasing. Ethnic population: 7,050 (2018 census). Total users in all countries: 3,552.

Location

Cauca, Nariño, and Valle del Cauca departments: 2 separate areas on South Pacific coast.

Language Maps
Language Status

4 (Educational).

Classification
Chocoan, Emberá, Southern Emberá
Dialects

Basurudó.

Typology

17 consonants and 21 vowels, contrasting in length and nasality.

Language Use

Vigorous. Home, religion, fiestas, ceremonies, commerce. Positive attitudes. Also use Spanish [spa]. Also use Woun Meu [noa].

Language Development

Literacy rate in L1: 1%–5%. Literacy rate in L2: 25%–50%. 400 readers, 50 can write. Taught in primary schools. Dictionary. Grammar. NT: 2005–2015.

Language Resources
OLAC resources in and about Epena
Writing

Latin script [Latn].

Other Comments

Traditional religion, Christian.

Also spoken in:

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