Sudan

Summary

Official Name: Republic of the Sudan
Population: 44,385,000
Principal Languages: English, Standard Arabic
Literacy Rate: 61% (2018 UNESCO)
International Conventions: ACHPR (1987), CPPDCE (2006), CSICH (2012), ICCPR (1966), UNCRPD (2006), UNDRIP (2007)
General References: Bender 1975, Bender 1983a, Bender 1989b, Bendor-Samuel and Hartell 1989, Doornbos and Bender 1983, Schadeberg and Bender 1981, Stevenson 1984
Deaf Population: 48,900
Language Counts: The number of established languages listed for Sudan is 77. Of these, 75 are living and 2 are extinct. Of the living languages, 70 are indigenous and 5 are non-indigenous. Furthermore, 3 are institutional, 18 are developing, 8 are vigorous, 34 are in trouble, and 12 are dying. Also listed are 6 unestablished languages.

Languages

Acheron acz: South Kordofan state: Saraf Aj-Jaamous area, east of Moro hills. Users: 20,000 (2006 R. Norton). 9,830 speakers in home area (2006 R. Norton). Status: 5 (Developing). Alternate Names: Aceron, Achurun, Asheron Autonym: Garme Classification: Niger-Congo, Kordofanian, Talodi, Talodi Proper, Tocho
Afitti aft: North Kordofan state: east Jebel ed Dair, main center is Sidra. Users: 4,000 (de Voogt 2009). Status: 6b (Threatened). Alternate Names: Affitti, Dinik, Ditti, Unietti Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Core, Eastern Sudanic, Northern (k languages), Nyimang
Aka soh: Blue Nile state: Jebel Silak, southwest of Ingessana hills. Users: 300 (Bender 1983a). Status: 8a (Moribund). Alternate Names: Fa-c-aka, Jebel Silak, Jebels Sillok, Sillok Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Core, Eastern Sudanic, Southern (n languages), Eastern Jebel, Aka-Kelo-Molo
Ama nyi: South Kordofan state: Al Fous, Fuony, Hajar Sultan, Kakara, Kalara, Koromiti, Nitil, Salara, Tundia, and other villages in Jebel Mandal range, Nyimang hills. Users: 158,000 (2017). Elderly and young children are monolingual. Status: 5 (Developing). Alternate Names: Inyimang, Nyima, Nyiman, Nyimang, Nyuwing Autonym: Ámá Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Core, Eastern Sudanic, Northern (k languages), Nyimang
Amharic amh: Users: 99,000 in Sudan (2017). Status: Unestablished. Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Semitic, South, Ethiopian, South, Transversal, Amharic-Argobba
Andaandi dgl: Northern state: Dongola district; north boundary is Burgeg. Users: 70,000 (2014 M. Jaeger). Status: 6b* (Threatened). Alternate Names: Danaagla, Danaqla, Dongola, Dongola Nubian, Dongolawi, Dongolawi Nubian, Dongolese Autonym: Andaandi Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Core, Eastern Sudanic, Northern (k languages), Nubian, Central, Dongolawi
Arabic, Algerian Spoken arq: Users: 39,000 in Sudan (2017). Status: Unestablished. Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Semitic, Central, South, Arabic
Arabic, North Levantine Spoken apc: Users: 96,000 in Sudan (2017). Status: Unestablished. Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Semitic, Central, South, Arabic
Arabic, Standard arb: Users: 26,900,000 in Sudan (2015 SIL), all users. Status: 1 (National). Statutory national working language (2005, Interim Constitution, Article 8(3)). Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Semitic, Central, South, Arabic
Arabic, Sudanese Spoken apd: Widespread. Users: 39,100,000 in Sudan, all users. L1 users: 30,100,000 in Sudan (2017). L2 users: 9,000,000 (2019). Total users in all countries: 42,332,360 (as L1: 33,332,360; as L2: 9,000,000). Status: 3 (Wider communication). De facto language of national identity. Language of wider communication with the coming of the Arabs between the 14th and 15 centuries. More widespread in the 1890s under British rule. Spoken throughout Sudan and part of Eritrea. Language of religion and trade. Alternate Names: Khartoum Arabic, Sudanese Arabic Autonym: Dārijīya, سوداني‎ (sūdānī) Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Semitic, Central, South, Arabic
Baygo byg: South Darfur state: southeast of Nyala, east Kube hills, Jebel Beygo. Users: No known L1 speakers. The last speakers probably survived into the 1960s (Sommer 1992). Ethnic population: 850 (1978 GRN). Status: 9 (Dormant). Alternate Names: Baigo, Bego, Beigo, Beko, Beygo, Béogé Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Core, Eastern Sudanic, Southern (n languages), Daju, Western Daju
Bedawiyet bej: Red Sea state; Gedaref, Kassala, and River Nile states, southeast river Nile. Users: 2,220,000 in Sudan (2017). Total users in all countries: 2,498,000. Status: 5 (Developing). Alternate Names: Beḍauye, Bedawi, Bedawiye, Bedja, Bedàwie, Beja, Biďaːwyéːt, Tibďaːwyě, To Bedawiat, To Bedawie, Tu Bdhaawi, Tu-Bedawie Autonym: Bidhaawyeet, Tubdhaawi, بجاوية‎ (Bidhaawyeet), تُبڈاوِ‎ (Tubdhaawi) Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Cushitic, North
Berta wti: Blue Nile state: Geissan, Kurmuk, and south Roseires districts, Ethiopia border area. Users: 180,000 in Sudan (Osman 2006). Status: 6b* (Threatened). Alternate Names: Barta, Beni Shangul, Benishangul, Bertha, Burta, Funj, Gwami, Ndú Berthú, Rotana, Rut’ana, Wetawit Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Satellites
Berti byt: North Darfur state: Tagabo hills. Users: No known L1 speakers. The last speakers probably died or shifted to Arabic by the 1980s (Sommer 1992). Status: 10 (Extinct). Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Saharan, Eastern
Birked brk: North Darfur state: between Jebel Harayt and Rizaykat (Arab) country, north of Nyala; North Kordofan: south of El Obeid. Users: No known L1 speakers. Last speakers survived into the 1970s; ethnic Birked shifted to Arabic (Sommer 1992). Status: 10 (Extinct). Alternate Names: Birgid, Birguid, Birkit, Birqed, Kajjara, Murgi Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Core, Eastern Sudanic, Northern (k languages), Nubian, Central, Birked
Bornu knc: Scattered, in South Darfur, South Kordofan, West Darfur, and West Kordofan states and other regions. Users: 348,000 in Sudan (2017). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Bornouans, Central Kanuri, Kanouri, Kanoury, Kanuri, Kole, Sirata, Yerwa Kanuri, “Beriberi” (pej.) Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Saharan, Western, Kanuri
Burun bdi: Blue Nile state: north Kurmuk district. Users: 46,000 (2017). Status: 5 (Developing). Alternate Names: Borun, Cai, Kurmuk, Lange Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Core, Eastern Sudanic, Southern (n languages), Nilotic, Western, Luo, Northern, Mabaan-Burun, Burun
Dagik dec: South Kordofan state: Mesakin hills, Buram, Kamlela, Reikha, Taballa, and Tosari villages. Users: 61,000 (2017). Status: 5 (Developing). Alternate Names: Dagig, Dharuwa, Duwa, Masakin Dagig, Ruwa, Thakik, “Masakin” (pej.), “Masakin Gusar” (pej.) Autonym: Dhaduwa Classification: Niger-Congo, Kordofanian, Talodi, Talodi Proper, Ngile-Dengebu
Dair drb: North Kordofan state: west and south of Jebel Dair. Users: 1,000 (1978 GRN). Status: 8a (Moribund). Alternate Names: Dabab, Daier, Thaminyi Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Core, Eastern Sudanic, Northern (k languages), Nubian, Central, Hill, Unclassified
Daju, Dar Fur daj: West Darfur state: Geneina district; South Darfur state: Daju hills 40 km northeast of Nyala; South Kordofan state: Dar el Kabira, Jebel Miheila, Lagawa, Nyukri, Silecce, Tamanyik, and Warina area villages (Lagowa dialect). Users: 98,000 (2017). Status: 5 (Developing). Alternate Names: Beke, Dagu, Daju Ferne, Fininga, Nyala-Lagowa Autonym: Bekke Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Core, Eastern Sudanic, Southern (n languages), Daju, Western Daju
Daju, Dar Sila dau: West Darfur state: Habilla district. Users: 7,000 in Sudan (2009 T. Alaki). Status: 6b (Threatened). Alternate Names: Bokor, Bokorike, Bokoruge, Mongo-Sila, Sila, Sula Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Core, Eastern Sudanic, Southern (n languages), Daju, Western Daju
Dilling dil: South Kordofan state: Dilling town and surrounding hills, including Kudur. Users: 12,000 (2017), decreasing. No monolinguals. Status: 8a (Moribund). Alternate Names: Delen, Warkimbe Autonym: Warki Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Core, Eastern Sudanic, Northern (k languages), Nubian, Central, Hill, Unclassified
El Hugeirat elh: North Kordofan and South Kordofan states: Baboy, Bija, Sija, and Shenshin villages in El Hugeirat hills, divided by border. Users: 50 (2007 SIL), decreasing. Status: 8a (Moribund). Alternate Names: El Hagarat, Hill Nubian, Kordofan Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Core, Eastern Sudanic, Northern (k languages), Nubian, Central, Hill, Unclassified
English eng: Status: 1 (National). Statutory national working language (2005, Interim Constitution, Article 8(3)). Classification: Indo-European, Germanic, West, English
Fulfulde, Adamawa fub: Blue Nile, Gedaref, Sennar, and South Darfur states; possibly North Kordofan and South Kordofan states, scattered. Users: 204,000 in Sudan (2017). Status: 6b* (Threatened). Alternate Names: Fellata, Fulfulde Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Atlantic, Northern, Senegambian, Fula-Wolof, Fula, Eastern
Fur fvr: North Darfur, South Darfur, and West Darfur states; some villages in east Sudan. Users: 744,000 in Sudan (2004 SIL). Ethnic population: 1,100,000 (2017). Total users in all countries: 745,800. Status: 5 (Developing). Alternate Names: Dala, For, Fora, Fordunga, Forok, Forta, Furakang, Furawi, Kadirgi, Konjara, Korra, Kungara, Kurka, Lali, Onage, Yerge, bèle fòòr, fòòraŋ bèle Autonym: Poor’íŋ Belé’ŋ Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Satellites, Fur
Gaam tbi: Blue Nile state: Baw district, Jebel Tabi and outlying hills. Users: 104,000 (2017). Status: 5 (Developing). Alternate Names: Gaahmg, Ingassana, Ingessana, Kamanidi, Kor é Gəəmg, Mamedja, Mamidza, Metabi, Muntabi, Tabi Autonym: Gəəməndən Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Core, Eastern Sudanic, Southern (n languages), Eastern Jebel, Gaam
Ganza gza: Blue Nile state: Kurmuk district, Dahmoh, Darsoma, Korbum, Tugubele, and Yeshkab villages between Daga and Yabus rivers. Users: 2,600 in Sudan (2007 A. Krell). Total users in all countries: 3,000. Status: 6a (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Ganzo, Gwami, Koma, Koma-Ganza Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Omotic, North, Mao
Gbaya krs: South Darfur state: Radom district, Kafia Kingi and south. Users: 28,000 in Sudan (2017). Total users in all countries: 48,000 (as L1: 44,000; as L2: 4,000). Status: 5 (Developing). Autonym: Gbäyä Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Satellites, Central Sudanic, West, Kresh
Ghulfan ghl: South Kordofan state: Dabri, Karkandi, Katang, Kurgul, Namang, Ninya, Moring, Ota, Shigda, and Tarda villages in Ghulfan Kurgul and Ghulfan Morung hills south of Dilling. Users: 37,000 (2017), decreasing. No monolinguals. Status: 7 (Shifting). Alternate Names: Gulfan, Uncu, Uncunwee, Wunci, Wuncimbe Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Core, Eastern Sudanic, Northern (k languages), Nubian, Central, Hill, Kadaru-Ghulfan
Gula kcm: South Darfur state: Kafia Kingi. Users: 200 in Sudan (1987 SIL). Status: 6b (Threatened). Alternate Names: Kara, Kara of Sudan, Yamegi Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Satellites, Central Sudanic, West, Bongo-Bagirmi, Kara
Gule gly: Blue Nile state: Damazin district, Jebel Gule, San and Roro hills. Users: No known L1 speakers. The last speakers survived into the 1980s (Sommer 1992). Ethnic population: 1,000 (Bender 1983a). Status: 9 (Dormant). Alternate Names: Anej, Fecakomodiyo, Hamej Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Core, Koman
Gumuz guk: Blue Nile state: east Er Roseires district, Famaka and Fazoglo areas on the Blue Nile; Sennar state: Dinder district, north along Ethiopia border. Users: 88,000 in Sudan (2017). Status: 6a* (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Debatsa, Deguba, Dehenda, Gombo, Gumis, Kadallu, Mendeya, Sa-Gumuz, “Shankillinya” (pej.), “Shanqilla” (pej.) Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Core, B’aga
Hausa hau: Blue Nile and Khartoum states; scattered in Khartoum, along Blue Nile river; Kordofan. Users: 740,000 in Sudan, all users. L1 users: 80,000 in Sudan (2007). L2 users: 660,000 (2017). Status: 5* (Dispersed). Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, West, A, A.1
Heiban hbn: South Kordofan state: Abul and Heiban towns. Users: 4,410 (Stevenson 1984). Status: 7 (Shifting). Alternate Names: Abul, Ebang Classification: Niger-Congo, Kordofanian, Heiban, West-Central, Central, Ebang-Logol, Ebang-Laru
Jumjum jum: Blue Nile state: west Kurmuk district, Jebels Tunga, Terta, and Wadega areas on South Sudan border. Users: 78,000 in Sudan (2017). Status: 5 (Developing). Alternate Names: Berin, Jiik Mäbaan, Olga, Wadega, Wadkai Autonym: Tüŋ Mäbaan Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Core, Eastern Sudanic, Southern (n languages), Nilotic, Western, Luo, Northern, Mabaan-Burun, Mabaan
Kadaru kdu: South Kordofan state: Jibaal as Sitta hills between Delami and Dilling. Users: 25,000 (2013 T. Alaki and R. Norton). Status: 7 (Shifting). Alternate Names: Kadaro, Kadero, Kaderu, Kodhin, Kodhinniai, Kodoro, Tamya Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Core, Eastern Sudanic, Northern (k languages), Nubian, Central, Hill, Kadaru-Ghulfan
Kanga kcp: South Kordofan state: Miri hills, west and southwest of Kadugli; Kufa village cluster southeast of Miri, northeast of Lima, and north of Kanga. Bilenya, Dologi, Lenyaguyox, Lima, Kilag, Kufa, Mashaish, and Toole (center) villages (Kufa-Lima dialect). Users: 15,000 (2017). Status: 6b (Threatened). Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Core, Kadugli-Krongo
Karko kko: South Kordofan state: Karko hills, 35 km west of Dilling, includes Dulman. Users: 7,000 (2004 A. Farah). Status: 7 (Shifting). Alternate Names: Garko, Kaak, Karme, Kithonirishe Autonym: Kakenbi Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Core, Eastern Sudanic, Northern (k languages), Nubian, Central, Hill, Unclassified
Katcha-Kadugli-Miri xtc: South Kordofan state. Belanya, Dabakaya, Farouq, Kafina, Katcha, and Tuna villages (Katcha dialect); ’Daalimo, Kadugli, Kulba, Murta, Takko, and Thappare villages (Kadugli dialect); Hayar al-Nimr, Kadoda, Kasari, Kuduru, Kya, Luba, Miri Bara, Miri Guwa, Nyimodu, Sogolle, Tulluk, and Umduiu villages (Miri dialect). Users: 75,000 (2004 SIL). 30,000 Katcha and Kadugli (2004), 4,000 Miri. Status: 6b (Threatened). Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Core, Kadugli-Krongo
Katla kcr: South Kordofan state: Katla hills southwest of Dilling. Kabog, Kabog North, Kabosh, Kambai, Karkando, Karkarya, Kary, Kimndang, Kitanngo, Kolbi, Koto Kork, Octiang, Rumber, Sabba, Tolot, (Julud dialect); Bombori, Karoka, Kateik, Kiddu, Kirkpong, and Koldrong (Katla dialect). Users: 25,000 (2009). Population for Julud. Status: 6b (Threatened). Alternate Names: Akalak, Kalak Classification: Niger-Congo, Kordofanian, Katla
Keiga kec: South Kordofan state: Jebel Demik, northwest of Kadugli; Ambong area, Ambong, Ambongadi, Arungekkaadi, Bila Ndulang, Kandang, Kuluwaring, Lakkadi, Roofik, Saadhing, Taffor, and Tingiragadi villages; Lubung area, Kuwaik, Miya Ndumuru, Miya Ntaarang, Miya Ntaluwa, Semalili, and Tungunungunu villages; Tumuro area, Jughuba, Kayide, Koolo, and Tumuro villages. Users: 6,070 (Stevenson 1984). Status: 6b (Threatened). Alternate Names: Deiga, Kayigang, Kayikang, Keiga-Al-Kheil, Keiga-Timero, Sani ma-yɛgaŋ, Yega Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Core, Kadugli-Krongo
Kelo xel: Blue Nile state: Geissan district, Beni Sheko and Keeli villages. Users: 200. Status: 8b (Nearly extinct). Alternate Names: Kelo-Beni Sheko, Ndu-Faa-Keelo, Tornasi Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Core, Eastern Sudanic, Southern (n languages), Eastern Jebel, Aka-Kelo-Molo
Ko fuj: South Kordofan state: isolated hills between Talodi and the White Nile. Users: 2,680 (Stevenson 1984). Status: 6b (Threatened). Alternate Names: Fungor, Fungur, Kau Classification: Niger-Congo, Kordofanian, Heiban, Eastern
Koalib kib: South Kordofan state: Delami area. Hadra, Nyukwur, and Umm Heitan (Nginyukwur dialect); Abri area villages scattered on the plain (Ngirere dialect); Koalib hills area (Ngunduna dialect); Turum and Umm Berumbita (Nguqwurang dialect). Users: 100,000 (Quint 2009). Status: 5* (Developing). Alternate Names: Abri, Kandiza Kethi Koalib, Kawaaliib, Kawalib, Kowalib, Lgalige, Nirere, Rere Autonym: Kwɐ̀ɐlîp Classification: Niger-Congo, Kordofanian, Heiban, West-Central, Central, Rere
Komo xom: Blue Nile state: Kurmuk district, Ahmar, Tombak, and Yabus rivers area. Users: 10,000 in Sudan (1979 W. James). Total users in all countries: 37,000. Status: 6a (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Central Koma, Como, Gokwom, Hayahaya, Koma of Daga, Madiin Autonym: Tta Komo Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Core, Koman
Krongo kgo: South Kordofan state: Angolo, Tabanya, and Toroji in Krongo hills; Buram, Damaguto, Dar, Dimadragu, and Dimodongo. Users: 49,000 (2017). Status: 5 (Developing). Alternate Names: Dimodongo, Kadumodi, Korongo, Kurungu, Tabanya Autonym: Niino mo-di Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Core, Kadugli-Krongo
Lafofa laf: South Kordofan state: central Eliri hills. Users: 5,140 (Stevenson 1984). Status: 6b (Threatened). Alternate Names: Kidie, Kidie Lafofa Classification: Niger-Congo, Kordofanian, Talodi, Tegem
Laro lro: South Kordofan state: Oya, Rodong (Hajar Medani), Hajar Baco, Gunisaia, Serif, Tondly, Reli, Lagau (Serfinila), Getaw (Hajar Tiya), Orme (Ando) villages in Alleira hills north of Heiban town. Users: 40,000 (Kuku 2012). Status: 5 (Developing). Alternate Names: Al-Leira, Leera, Liira, Ngwullaro, Yillaro Autonym: Laru Classification: Niger-Congo, Kordofanian, Heiban, West-Central, Central, Ebang-Logol, Ebang-Laru
Logol lof: South Kordofan state: isolated hills between Talodi and the White Nile. Users: 12,000 (2017). Status: 8a (Moribund). Alternate Names: Lukha Classification: Niger-Congo, Kordofanian, Heiban, West-Central, Central, Ebang-Logol, Logol
Logorik liu: South Kordofan state: Jebel Liguri and hills 15 km northeast of Kadugli. Users: 2,000 (Welmers 1971a). Status: 6b (Threatened). Alternate Names: Laggori, Liguri, Logori Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Core, Eastern Sudanic, Southern (n languages), Daju, Eastern Daju
Lumun lmd: South Kordofan state: Canya’ru, Toromathan, and To’ri villages in Limon hills. Users: 15,000 (2014 SIL). Home area population 9,500 (2011 census). Ethnic population: 20,000 (2014 SIL). Status: 5* (Developing). Alternate Names: Kuku-Lumun, Lomon Autonym: Lumun Classification: Niger-Congo, Kordofanian, Talodi, Talodi Proper, Tocho
Masalit mls: South Darfur state: scattered; West Darfur state: Geneina and Habila districts. North and east of Geneina (Northern Masalit dialect). Users: 350,000 in Sudan (2011 SIL). Total users in all countries: 462,000. Status: 6a (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Kana Masalaka, Kana Masaraka, Kanaa Masaraka, Masaraka, Massalit, Mesalit Autonym: Kanaa Masarak, Masarak Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Satellites, Maban, Masalit
Midob mei: Khartoum state: scattered throughout, and Omdurman district, Gezirat Aba island; White Nile state; North Darfur state: Mellit district, Malha area. Users: 85,000 (2017). Status: 6a (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Meidob, Meidob Nubian, Midobi, Tid, Tid-N-Aal, Tidda Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Core, Eastern Sudanic, Northern (k languages), Nubian, Western
Molo zmo: Blue Nile state: Jebel Malkan. Users: 100 (1988 M. Bender), decreasing. Status: 8b (Nearly extinct). Alternate Names: Malkan, Tura-Ka-Molo Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Core, Eastern Sudanic, Southern (n languages), Eastern Jebel, Aka-Kelo-Molo
Moro mor: South Kordofan state: Moro hills. Users: 72,000 (2017). Status: 5 (Developing). Autonym: Dhimorong Classification: Niger-Congo, Kordofanian, Heiban, West-Central, Western
Nding eli: South Kordofan state: East Nuba hills, south Eliri range. Users: 400 (Welmers 1971a). Status: 6b (Threatened). Alternate Names: Eliri Classification: Niger-Congo, Kordofanian, Talodi, Talodi Proper, Nding
Ngile jle: South Kordofan state: Mesakin hills. Masakin and Togosilu villages (Masakin Tuwal dialect); Daloka and El Aheimar villages (Daloka dialect). Users: 11,700 (Stevenson 1984), including Dagik [dec] speakers. Status: 6b* (Threatened). Alternate Names: Angire, Arra, Daloka, Darra, Masakin, Mesakin, Taloka Classification: Niger-Congo, Kordofanian, Talodi, Talodi Proper, Ngile-Dengebu
Nobiin fia: Northern state: Wadi Halfa district, Burgeg to Wadi Halfa; possibly east of Khartoum city, New Halfa area. Users: 144,000 in Sudan (2017). Total users in all countries: 546,000. Status: 6b (Threatened). Alternate Names: Fiadidja-Mahas, Mahas-Fiadidja, Mahas-Fiyadikkya Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Core, Eastern Sudanic, Northern (k languages), Nubian, Northern
Oromo, West Central gaz: Users: 96,000 in Sudan (2017). Status: Unestablished. Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Cushitic, East, Oromo
Otoro otr: South Kordofan state: Otoro hills south of Heiban town. Users: 10,000 (2001). Status: 6b (Threatened). Alternate Names: Dhitoro, Kawama, Kawarma, Litoro, Utoro Autonym: Ḏuṯuɽu Classification: Niger-Congo, Kordofanian, Heiban, West-Central, Central, Ebang-Logol, Utoro
Shatt shj: South Kordofan state: Shatt Daman, Shatt Safia, and Shatt Tebeldia; Abu Hashim and Abu Sinam areas. Users: 30,000 (2014 T. Stirtz). Status: 6b* (Threatened). Alternate Names: Caning Autonym: Ikä Caning Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Core, Eastern Sudanic, Southern (n languages), Daju, Eastern Daju
Shwai shw: South Kordofan state: 20 km west of Heiban town. Users: 3,500 (1989). Status: 6b (Threatened). Alternate Names: Ludumor, Shirumba, Shuway Autonym: Cwaya Classification: Niger-Congo, Kordofanian, Heiban, West-Central, Shirumba
Sulaihab mde: South Kordofan: Nuba mountains. Users: 25,000 in Sudan (2017). Status: Unestablished. Alternate Names: Maba Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Satellites, Maban, Maba
Tagoi tag: South Kordofan state: Moreb, Tagoi, Tukum, Tuling, Tumale, Turjok, and Turum. Users: 27,000 (2017). Status: 6b* (Threatened). Alternate Names: Tagoy Classification: Niger-Congo, Kordofanian, Rashad
Talodi tlo: South Kordofan state: Talodi town, Tasomi and Tata villages. Users: 1,500 (1989). Status: 8b (Nearly extinct). Alternate Names: Ajomang, Gajomang, Jomang Classification: Niger-Congo, Kordofanian, Talodi, Talodi Proper, Jomang
Tama tma: South Darfur state: west of Nyala; West Darfur state. Sirba area, Abu Shadra, Abu Suruj, Agar, Bir Dagig, Budiflo, Gezin, Giilint, Goboron, Immed Marloga, Kengrem, Kondobe, Kuma Mardok, Matinoor, Muburung, Rigilmur, Saraf Jidad, Shitkol, Tord, and Zere (Erenga dialect:); Jabal Muun area, Salia town (Mileere dialect). Users: 227,000 in Sudan (2017). 155,000 Kimr and 72,000 Tama. Status: 6b (Threatened). Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Core, Eastern Sudanic, Northern (k languages), Tama, Tama-Sungor
Tegali ras: South Kordofan state: Tegali and Rashad hills and Rashad town. Users: 99,000 (2017). 80,000 Tegali and 19,000 Tingal. Status: 6b (Threatened). Alternate Names: Orig, Tagale, Tegele, Tekele, Togole, Turjok Classification: Niger-Congo, Kordofanian, Rashad
Temein teq: South Kordofan state: Farik, Kuris, Kwiye, Nekring, Tokoing, Tukur, and Tulu villages between Jebels Ghulfan Morung and Julud. Users: 13,000 (2006). 6,000 in home area villages; 7,000 in other towns in Sudan. Status: 6b* (Threatened). Alternate Names: Rone, Ronge, Temainian Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Core, Eastern Sudanic, Southern (n languages), Temein
Tese keg: South Kordofan state: Keiga Jirru, and 6 villages northeast of Kadugli. Users: 1,400 (Welmers 1971a). Status: 6b (Threatened). Alternate Names: Keiga Girru, Keiga Jirru, Teis-Umm-Danab, These Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Core, Eastern Sudanic, Southern (n languages), Temein
Tigré tig: Red Sea state: Tokar and Garora regions; Gedaref and Kassala states. Users: 19,000 in Sudan (2017). Status: 6b* (Threatened). Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Semitic, South, Ethiopian, North
Tigrigna tir: Users: 48,000 in Sudan (2017). Status: Unestablished. Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Semitic, South, Ethiopian, North
Tima tms: South Kordofan state: Jebel Tima village, 15 km southwest of Katla, north of Lagawa. Users: Ethnic population: 5,000 (Dimmendaal and Voeltz 2007). Status: 8a (Moribund). Alternate Names: Domurik, Lomorik, Lomuriki, Tamanik, Yibwa Classification: Niger-Congo, Kordofanian, Katla
Tira tic: South Kordofan state: hills between Kauda and Talodi. Users: 31,000 (2017). Status: 5 (Developing). Alternate Names: Lithiro, Littiro, Thiro, Tiro Autonym: Zittiro Classification: Niger-Congo, Kordofanian, Heiban, West-Central, Western
Tocho taz: South Kordofan state: 15 villages near Saraf aj Jamus, and Delabaya. Users: 2,650 (2013 T. Alaki and R. Norton). Home area population: 2,000. Status: 6b (Threatened). Alternate Names: Tacho, Toicho Classification: Niger-Congo, Kordofanian, Talodi, Talodi Proper, Tocho
Torona tqr: South Kordofan state: Limon hills. Users: No known L1 speakers. The last known proficient speaker died in January 2014 (Norton and Alaki 2015). Status: 9 (Dormant). Classification: Niger-Congo, Kordofanian, Talodi, Talodi Proper, Tocho
Tulishi tey: South Kordofan state: Lagawa and northeast at Aabiisa, Aliyooro Manadaha, Jebels Tulishi, Kamdang, Kirakaati, Laati, Lawwa, Nattilongke, Ntukungnge, and Thudhi villages. 25km southwest of Lagawa (Dar el Kabira dialect). Users: 2,500 (Dimmendaal and Voeltz 2007). Status: 6b (Threatened). Alternate Names: Kuntulishi, Thulishi, Tulesh Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Core, Kadugli-Krongo
Tumtum tbr: South Kordofan state: Kurondi south of Eliri Hills. North Eliri hills (Talassa dialect); west Talodi hills (Tumtum dialect). Users: 15,000 (2017). Status: 6b (Threatened). Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Core, Kadugli-Krongo
Uduk udu: Blue Nile state: Kurmuk district, from Belila north, south to Yabus river. Users: 22,000 in Sudan and South Sudan (split between the two not known). Few monolinguals (Killian 2015). Status: 5 (Developing). Alternate Names: Cai, Kamus, Kebeirka, Korara, Kwanim Pa, Othan, Tam Autonym: Twampa Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Core, Koman
Wali wll: South Kordofan state: 12 km northeast of Katla. Users: 9,000 (2007 SIL). Many monolinguals. Status: 6a (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Walari, Walarishe, Wele Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Core, Eastern Sudanic, Northern (k languages), Nubian, Central, Hill, Unclassified
Warnang wrn: South Kordofan state: isolated hills between Talodi and the White Nile. Users: 1,100 (1956 census). Status: 6b (Threatened). Alternate Names: Werni Classification: Niger-Congo, Kordofanian, Heiban, Eastern
Yulu yul: South Darfur state: Habbaniya area. Users: 3,000 in Sudan (1987 SIL). Population is total for both Sudan and South Sudan. 2,000 Yulu, 1,000 Binga. Status: 7 (Shifting). Alternate Names: Youlou Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Satellite-Core, Satellites, Central Sudanic, West, Bongo-Bagirmi, Kara
Zaghawa zag: North Darfur and West Darfur states, scattered. Users: 180,000 in Sudan (Osman 2006). Total users in all countries: 348,400. Status: 6a (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Beri, Beri-Aa, Berri, Bideyat, Kebadi, Kuyuk, Merida, Soghaua, Zagaoua, Zagawa, Zauge, Zeggaoua, Zeghawa, Zorhaua Autonym: Beria Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Saharan, Eastern

Maps

Sudan

Graphs

Language Vitality Profile
Full explanation
This graph shows the profile of languages in Sudan with respect to their level of language vitality. Each individual language that has an entry for Sudan is included in the profile. The horizontal axis represents the estimated level of vitality. The height of each bar indicates the number of languages that are estimated to be at the given level.
The vitality levels and the color coding of the bars match the scheme used in the guide on How many languages are endangered? In this scheme, the levels and colors are as follows:
- Dark green = Institutional (EGIDS 0-4) — The language has been developed to the point that it is used and sustained by institutions beyond the home and community.
- Light green = Stable (EGIDS 5-6a) — The language is not being sustained by formal institutions, but It is still the norm in the home and community that all children learn and use the language.
- Red = Endangered (EGIDS 6b-9) — It is no longer the norm that children learn and use this language.
These three summary levels have been derived by grouping levels in the Expanded Graded Intergenerational Disruption Scale (EGIDS), which is the more fine-grained scale that Ethnologue uses to assess the status of every language in terms of development versus endangerment; see the Language Status page for a description of the levels of that scale. See also the pages on Development and Endangerment for more discussion.
Language Status Profile
Full explanation
This graph shows the profile of languages in Sudan with respect to their status of language development versus language endangerment. Each individual language that has an entry for Sudan is included in the profile. The horizontal axis represents the estimated level of development or endangerment as measured on the EGIDS scale. (See the pages on Development and Endangerment for a fuller explanation.) The height of each bar indicates the number of languages that are estimated to be at the given level. Consult the Status listings for Sudan in order to see the specific languages for each level.
The color coding of the bars matches the color scheme used in the summary profile graphs on the navigation maps for the site. In this scheme, the EGIDS levels are grouped as follows:
- Purple = Institutional (EGIDS 0-4) — The language has been developed to the point that it is used and sustained by institutions beyond the home and community.
- Blue = Developing (EGIDS 5) — The language is in vigorous use, with literature in a standardized form being used by some though this is not yet widespread or sustainable.
- Green = Vigorous (EGIDS 6a) — The language is unstandardized and in vigorous use among all generations.
- Yellow = In trouble (EGIDS 6b-7) — Intergenerational transmission is in the process of being broken, but the child-bearing generation can still use the language so it is possible that revitalization efforts could restore transmission of the language in the home.
- Red = Dying (EGIDS 8a-9) — The only fluent users (if any) are older than child-bearing age, so it is too late to restore natural intergenerational transmission through the home; a mechanism outside the home would need to be developed.
- Black = Extinct (EGIDS 10) — The language has fallen completely out of use and no one retains a sense of ethnic identity associated with the language.

Resources

View Terms
Each Ethnologue country digest is a licensed product with restricted terms of use. Before downloading the product, you must agree to the following terms:
- This is a license for individual use. Just as with a conventionally published book, it is a violation of copyright to make a copy and give it to others.
- You may not redistribute this work in any form, including ingesting the contents into a database that is shared with others or posting it on a web site (whether public or private).
To inquire about permission for reuse or redistribution, please use the Contact Us form in the footer.
I agree to the digest terms of use.
Digest of the languages of Sudan ($299.95, 56 page PDF)

Sudan

Summary

Languages

Languages by Status

Maps

Sudan

Graphs

Language Vitality Profile

Language Status Profile

Resources

Contributions

Editorial Action