Republic of Cameroon. Formerly French Cameroun and British Cameroons. 17,795,000.

National or official
languages: English, French. Literacy rate: 63.4%, including 75% males, 52.1% females (Encyclopedia Britannica
1995). Immigrant languages: Efai (890). Information mainly from J. Bendor-Samuel and Hartell 1989; R. Breton
1991; SIL 1973–2003. Blind population: 15,630 (1982 WCE). The number of individual languages listed for
Cameroon is 286. Of those, 278 are living languages, 3 are second languages without mother-tongue speakers,
and 5 have no known speakers.
Abar [mij] 2,000 (2001 SIL). North West Province, Menchum Division, Wum Subdivision,
Missong is center, with Munken, Abar, Ngun (Ngwen) and Za’ (Zak or Biya) villages.
Alternate names: Mijong, Missong. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Beboid, Western
More information.
Afade [aal] 5,000 in Cameroon (2004). Far North Province, Logone-and-Chari Division, south
Makari Subdivision, Afade area. Alternate names: Afadeh, Affade. Classification:
Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-Mandara, B, B.1, Kotoko Proper, North
More information.
Aghem [agq] 26,700 (2000). North West Province, Menchum Division, Wum Central
Subdivision, Wum area. Alternate names: Wum, Yum. Dialects: Similar to Isu [isu],
Weh [weh]. Minimal regional differences in speech. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Wide Grassfields,
Narrow Grassfields, Ring, West
More information.
Akoose [bss] 100,000 (2001 SIL). South West Province, Kupe-Muanenguba Division, Bangem
and Tombel Subdivisions; Littoral Province, Moungo Division, Manjo Subdivision.
Alternate names: Akosi, Bakossi, Bekoose, Koose, Kosi, Nkoosi, Nkosi. Dialects:
Northern Bakossi, Western Bakossi, Southern Bakossi, Mwambong, Ninong, Elung
(Elong, Along, Nlong), Mwamenam (Mouamenam). Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu,
Northwest, A, Lundu-Balong (A.10), Ngoe
More information.
Akum [aku] 1,400 in Cameroon (2002 SIL). Nigeria border area, North West Province,
Menchum Division, Furu-Awa Subdivision, Akum village. Also in Nigeria. Alternate
names: Anyar, Okum. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo,
Benue-Congo, Jukunoid, Yukuben-Kuteb
More information.
Ambele [ael] 2,600 (2000 SIL). North West Province, Momo Division, west Widikum-Menka
Subdivision. About 11 villages. Dialects: May be related to Busam [bxs] or Atong
[ato]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Wide Grassfields, Western Momo
More information.
Arabic, Shuwa [shu] 75,000 in Cameroon (2007). Far North Province, Mayo-Sava, Diamare, Mayo-
Danay, and Logone-and-Chari divisions; mostly between Lake Chad and Kousseri,
with pockets south of Kousseri. Alternate names: Arabe Choa, Chadian Spoken
Arabic, Choa, Shoa Arabic, Shoa, Shua. Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Semitic, Central,
South, Arabic
More information.
Atong [ato] 4,200 (2000 SIL). Northwest Province, Momo Division, extreme northwest
Widikum-Menka Subdivision. 5 villages. Alternate names: Etoh. Dialects: Related to
Menka [mea], Manta [myg]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-
Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Wide Grassfields, Western Momo
More information.
Awing [azo] 19,000 (2001 SIL). North West Province, Mezam Division, Awing-Bambaluwe
village. Alternate names: Awi, Bambuluwe, Mbwe’wi. Dialects: Related to Bafut
[bfd], Bambili-Bambui [baw], Kpati [koc], Mendankwe-Nkwen [mfd], Ngemba [nge],
Pinyin [pny]. Lexical similarity: 74% with Bamukumbit [bqt]. Classification: Niger-
Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Wide
 Grassfields, Narrow Grassfields, Mbam-Nkam, Ngemba
More information.
Baba [bbw] 24,500 (2005 SIL). North West Province, Ngo Ketunjia Division, Babessi
Subdivision, east of Ndop on Ndop Plain. Alternate names: Baba 1, Bapa, Bapakum,
Papia, Supapya’. Dialects: Related to Mungaka [mhk]. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Wide Grassfields,
Narrow Grassfields, Mbam-Nkam, Nun
More information.
Babanki [bbk] 22,500 (2000 SIL). North West Province, Mezam Division, Tuba Subdivision,
villages of Kejom-Ketingo and Kejom-Keku. Alternate names: Finge, Kedjom, Kejeng,
Kejom, Kidzem, Kidzom. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo,
Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Wide Grassfields, Narrow Grassfields, Ring, Center

More information.
Bafanji [bfj] 17,000 (2008). North West Province, Ngo-Ketunjia Division, south of Ndop on
Ndop Plain. Alternate names: Bafangi, Bafanyi, Chuufi, Nchufie. Dialects: Similar to
Bamali [bbq], Bamenyam [bce], Bambalang [bmo]. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Wide Grassfields,
Narrow Grassfields, Mbam-Nkam, Nun
More information.
Bafaw-Balong [bwt] 8,400 (1982 SIL). South West Province, Meme Division, north of Kumba along
Kumba-Mamfe Road and southeast of Ekondo-Titi; Littoral Province, Moungo
Division. Alternate names: Ngoe. Dialects: Bafaw (Bafo, Bafowu, Afo, Nho, Lefo’),
Balong (Balon, Balung, Nlong, Valongi, Bayi, Bai). Some linguists consider this 2
languages. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, A, Lundu-Balong (A.10), Ngoe
More information.
Bafia [ksf] 60,000 (1991 UBS). Center Province, Mbam and Inoubou Division, Bafia
Subdivision. Alternate names: Bekpak, Rikpa, Rikpa’, Ripey. Dialects: Kpa, Bape.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, A, Bafia (A.50)
More information.
Bafut [bfd] 105,000 (2005). North West Province, Mezam Division, Tuba Subdivision, Bafut.
Alternate names: Befe, Bufe, Fu, Fut. Dialects: Bafut, Bufe (Afughe). Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Wide
Grassfields, Narrow Grassfields, Mbam-Nkam, Ngemba
More information.
Baka [bkc] 40,000 in Cameroon (2007). 15,000 monolinguals, mainly women. Population
total all countries: 43,200. Ethnic population: 40,000. Scattered in southeast East
Province: Boumba and Ngoko, Kadey, and Upper Nyong divisions; South Province,
Dja and Lobo divisions. Also in Gabon. Alternate names: Babinga, Bebayaga,
Bebayaka, Bibaya, de L’est, Pygmee, Pygmees, Pygmy-E. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Sere-Ngbaka-Mba,
Ngbaka-Mba, Ngbaka, Western, Baka-Gundi
More information.
Bakaka [bqz] 30,000 (1998 SIL). Littoral Province, Moungo Division, Nlonako, Manjo, west
Loum, and south Nkongsamba Subdivisions. Alternate names: Central Mbo. Dialects:
Babong (Ihobe Mbog, Ihobe Mboong), Baneka (Mwaneka), Bakaka (Ehob Mkaa, Kaa,
Kaka), Manehas (Mwahed, Mwahet, Mvae), Balondo (Ehobe Belon), Bafun (Mbwase
Nghuy, Miamilo, Pendia). Related to Akoose [bss], Bassossi [bsi], Mbo [mtk].
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, A, Lundu-Balong (A.10), Ngoe
More information.
Bakoko [bkh] 50,000 (1982 SIL). Littoral Province, scattered communities: Wouri Division,
south of Douala; Moungo Division, south of Dibombari; Nkam Division, Nkondjok
area; Sanaga-Maritime Division, southwest of Edea; South Province, northwest
 Ocean Division. Alternate names: Basoo. Dialects: Adie (Elog Mpoo, Basoo Ba Die,
Basoo D’edea), Bisoo (Basso, Basoo Ba Likol, Adiangok), Mbang (Dimbambang),
Yabyang (Yabyang-Yapeke), Yakalak (Yakalag), Yapoma, Yassuku (Yasoukou, Yasug,
Yasuku). Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, A, Basaa (A.40)
More information.
Bakole [kme] 300 (1982 SIL). South West Province, Ndian Division, south of Meme estuary,
Bamusso area. Alternate names: Bakolle, Bamusso, Kole. Dialects: Intelligibility of
Mokpwe [bri]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-
Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, A, Duala (A.20)
More information.
Baldemu [bdn] 4 (2003 SIL). Far North Province, Diamare Division, Bogo, Balda, and Guingley
are east of Maroua; Lara is south of Maroua. Alternate names: Baldamu, Baldare,
Mbazla. Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-Mandara, A, A.5 Nearly extinct.
More information.
Balo [bqo] 2,230 (2000). South West Province, Manyu Division, Akwaya Subdivision.
Dialects: Lexical similarity: 60% with Osatu [ost], 40% with Ipulo [ass] and Caka [ckx],
35% with Esimbi [ags] and Mesaka [iyo]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Tivoid
More information.
Bamali [bbq] 10,800 (2008). North West Province, Ngo-Ketunjia Division, Ndop Subdivision,
south of Ndop. Alternate names: Chopechop, Ngoobechop. Dialects: Related to
Bafanji [bfj], Bamenyam [bce], Bambalang [bmo], Bangolan [bgj]. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Wide
Grassfields, Narrow Grassfields, Mbam-Nkam, Nun
More information.
Bambalang [bmo] 29,000 (2008). North West Province, Ngo-Ketunjia Division, Ndop Subdivision,
southeast of Ndop. Alternate names: Bambolang, Mboyakum, Tshirambo. Dialects:
Related to Bafanji [bfj], Bamenyam [bce], Bamun [bax], Bamali [bbq], Bangolan [bgj].
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Wide Grassfields, Narrow Grassfields, Mbam-Nkam, Nun
More information.
Bambili-Bambui [baw] 10,000 (Dieu and Renaud 1983). North West Province, Mezam Division, Tuba
Subdivision, along Ring Road, east of Bamenda, Bambili, and Bambui villages.
Alternate names: Bambili. Dialects: Bambili (Mbili, Mbele, Mbogoe), Bambui (Mbui).
Mutual inherent intelligibility is low with Mendankwe-Nkwen [mfd]. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Wide
Grassfields, Narrow Grassfields, Mbam-Nkam, Ngemba
More information.
Bamenyam [bce] 4,000 (1994 SIL). West Province, Bamboutos Division, northwest Galim
Subdivision, Bamenyam area; North West Province, southeast Mezam Division.
Alternate names: Bamenyan, Mamenyan, Mengambo, Pamenyan. Dialects: Bati [btc]
may be a dialect of Bamenyam. Similar to Bamali [bbq], Bafanji [bfj], Bambalang
[bmo]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Wide Grassfields, Narrow Grassfields, Mbam-Nkam, Nun
More information.
Bamukumbit [bqt] 12,000 (2008). North West Province, Ngo-Ketunjia Division, Balikumbat
Subdivision, southwest of Ndop on Ndop Plain, Bamukumbit village. Alternate
names: Bamenkombit, Bamenkoumbit, Bamoukoumbit, Bamunkum, Mangkong.
Dialects: Lexical similarity: 74% with Awing [azo]. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Wide Grassfields,
Narrow Grassfields, Mbam-Nkam, Ngemba
More information.
Bamun [bax] 215,000 (1982 SIL). West Province, most of Noun Division, Foumban area;
extreme north Mifi Division; extreme southeast Bamboutos Division. Alternate
names: Bamoum, Bamoun, Bamum, Shupamem. Dialects: Related to Bafanji [bfj],
 Bamali [bbq], Bambalang [bmo], Bangolan [bgj]. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Wide Grassfields,
Narrow Grassfields, Mbam-Nkam, Nun
More information.
Bamunka [bvm] 31,000 (2008). North West Province, Ngo Ketunjia Division, Ndop Subdivision,
Bamunka village area. Alternate names: Bamunkun, Mbika, Muka, Ndop-Bamunka,
Ngiemekohke, Niemeng. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo,
Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Wide Grassfields, Narrow Grassfields, Ring, South
More information.
Bana [bcw] 23,000 (2007). 14,000 Gamboura and 9,000 Guili. On Nigeria border, Far North
Province, Mayo-Tsanaga Division, Bourrah Subdivision, north and northeast of
Bourrah. Alternate names: Baza, Ka-Bana, Koma, Mizeran, Parole des Bana. Dialects:
Gamboura, Gili (Guili). Similar to Psikye [kvj], Hya [hya], Kamwe [hig]. Classification:
Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-Mandara, A, A.3
More information.
Bangandu [bgf] 2,700 in Cameroon (Voegelin and Voegelin 1977). East Province, Boumba and
Ngoko Division, Moloundou Subdivision. Also in Congo. Alternate names: Bagando,
Bangando, Bangantu, Southern Bangantu. Dialects: May be related to Ngombe [nmj]
in Central African Republic. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo,
North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Gbaya-Manza-Ngbaka, Southwest
More information.
Bangolan [bgj] 13,500 (2000). North West Province, Ngo-Ketunjia Division, Babessi Subdivision,
east of Ndop and south of Jakiri. Dialects: Most linguistically and culturally distinct of
the Ndop languages. Most closely related to Bambalang [bmo]. Classification: Niger-
Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Wide
Grassfields, Narrow Grassfields, Mbam-Nkam, Nun
More information.
Bankon [abb] 12,000 (2001 SIL). Littoral Province, Moungo Division, north of Douala and west
of Wouri River, and Dibombari. Alternate names: Abaw, Abo, Bo, Bon. Dialects:
Lexical similarity: 86% with Barombi [bbi]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-
Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, A,
Basaa (A.40)
More information.
Barombi [bbi] 3,000 (2001 SIL). South West Province, Meme Division, north of Mount
Cameroon around Lake Barombi-Koto and west of Kumba around Lake Barombi-
Mbo; and Ndian Division, northeast of Ekondo-Titi. Alternate names: Balombi,
Barumbi, Lambi, Lombe, Lombi, Rambi, Rombi. Dialects: Lexical similarity: 86% with
Bankon [abb]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-
Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, A, Basaa (A.40)
More information.
Basaa [bas] 230,000 (1982 SIL). Center Province, spread throughout Nyong-and-Kelle
Division; Littoral Province, Nkam and Sanaga-Maritime divisions. Alternate names:
Basa, Bassa, Bicek, Bikyek, Bisaa, Mbele, Mee, Mvele, Northern Mbene, Tupen.
Dialects: Bakem, Bon, Bibeng, Diboum, Log, Mpo, Mbang, Ndokama, Basso,
Ndokbele, Ndokpenda, Nyamtam. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-
Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, A, Basaa (A.40)
More information.
Bassossi [bsi] 5,000 (2004 SIL). South West Province, Kupe-Muanenguba Division, central part
of Nguti Subdivision, Nguti town and east and south. Alternate names: Asobse,
Basosi, Basossi, Ngen, Nsose, Nswase, Nswose, Sosi, Swose. Dialects: Mienge (Lower
Mbo). Related to Mbo [mbo], Akoose [bss], Bakaka [bqz]. Classification: Niger-
Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Northwest, A, Lundu-Balong (A.10), Ngoe
More information.
Bata [bta] 2,500 in Cameroon. North Province, Benoue Division, along Nigeria border (30
km northeast of Garoua), along Benoue River, west of Garoua and along a section of
 Faro River. Alternate names: Batta, Dii, Gbwata, Gwate. Dialects: Ndeewe (Bata-
Ndeewe). Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-Mandara, A, A.8
More information.
Batanga [bnm] 6,000 in Cameroon (1982 SIL). South Province, Ocean Division, Kribi area,
scattered along the coast. Alternate names: Bano’o, Banoho, Banoo, Noho, Noku.
Dialects: Bano’o (Banoo, Banaka, Banoko), Bapuku (Puku, Poko, Naka, Bapuu),
Batanga. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, A, Bube-Benga (A.30)
More information.
Bati [btc] 800 (1975 census). Littoral Province, Sanaga-Maritime Division, Ndom
Subdivision, Bati Canton. 4 villages. Alternate names: Bati Ba Ngong, Bati de Brousse.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Mbam, West (A.40)
More information.
Beba [bfp] 3,000 (2002 SIL). South West Province, Manyu Division, Akwaya Subdivision;
North West Province, Mezam Division, Benakuma Subdivision. Alternate names:
Baba’zhi, Babadji, Batadji, Bazhi, Beba’, Bebadji, Biba, Bombe, Mubadji, Shishong.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Wide Grassfields, Narrow Grassfields, Mbam-Nkam, Ngemba
More information.
Bebe [bzv] 2,500 (2001 SIL). North West Province, Donga-Mantung Division, Misaje
Subdivision, west of Nkambe and north of Ring Road, Bebe-Jama and Bebe-Jatto
villages. Alternate names: Yi Be Wu. Dialects: Member of the Eastern Beboid
subgroup. Lexical similarity: 85% with Kemezung [dmo]. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Beboid, Eastern
More information.
Bebele [beb] 24,000 (Welmers 1971). Center Province, Upper Sanaga Division, Minta
Subdivision; East Province, Lom-and Djerem Division, Diang Subdivision. Alternate
names: Bamvele. Dialects: Eki, Manyok. Related to Beti [btb], Bulu [bum], Eton [eto],
Ewondo [ewo], Fang [fak], Mengisa [mct]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-
Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, A,
Yaunde-Fang (A.70)
More information.
Bebil [bxp] 6,000 (1991 SIL). East Province, Lom-and-Djerem Division, Belabo Subdivision,
Belabo area. Alternate names: Bobilis, Gbigbil. Dialects: Related to Bebele [beb].
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, A, Yaunde-Fang (A.70)
More information.
Beezen [bnz] 450 (2001 SIL). North West Province, Menchum Division, Furu-Awa Subdivision,
Kpep (Beezen) village. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo,
Benue-Congo, Jukunoid, Yukuben-Kuteb
More information.
Befang [bby] 2,980 (2000). North West Province, straddling Mezam Division, Tuba
Subdivision and Menchum Division, Wum Subdivision, around Befang. Alternate
names: Beba-Befang, Biba-Bifang, Bifang, Menchum. Dialects: Modele (Beekuru, Iku,
Aku, Usheida, Modelle, Modeli, Idele, Ambabiko), Ushaku (Mukuru, Mokuru), Befang
(Ge, Beba-Befang, Bifang, Abefang), Bangui (Bangwe, Bangwi), Obang, Okomanjang
(Okoromandjang). Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-
Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Wide Grassfields, Menchum
More information.
Bekwil [bkw] East Province, Boumba-and-Ngoko Division, along Ngoko River north side,
Moloundou area. Alternate names: Bakwele, Bakwil, Bekwel, Okpele. Dialects: Esel
(Essel). Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, A, Makaa-Njem (A.80)
More information.
Beti [btb] 2,000,000. Fang, Ewondo, Bulu, Mengisa, etc. Major part of Center and South
 provinces; East Province, Lom-and-Djerem and Upper Nyong divisions. Dialects:
Related to Bebele [beb], Bebil [bxp], Bulu [bum], Eton [eto], Ewondo [ewo], Fang
[fak], Mengisa [mct]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo,
Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, A, Yaunde-Fang (A.70)
More information.
Bikya [byb] 1 (Breton 1986). North West Province, Menchum Division, Furu-Awa
Subdivision, Furubana village. Alternate names: Furu. Dialects: Reportedly in Furu
subgroup (2000 B. Connell). May be Eastern Beboid. Lexical similarity: 24% with
Noone [nhu] (Beboid), 14% with Akum [aku]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-
Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Unclassified Nearly extinct.
More information.
Bishuo [bwh] 1 (Breton 1986). North West Province, Menchum Division, Furu-Awa
Subdivision, Ntjieka, Furu-Turuwa, and Furu-Sambari villages. Alternate names:
Biyam, Furu. Dialects: Reportedly in Furu subgroup (2000 B. Connell). May be
Jukunoid. Lexical similarity: 16%–17% with Noone [nhu], 11% with Bikya [byb].
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Unclassified Nearly extinct.
More information.
Bitare [brt] 6,030 in Cameroon (2000). Adamawa Province, Mayo-Banyo Division, near
Banyo. Alternate names: Njwande, Yukutare. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-
Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Tivoid
More information.
Bokyi [bky] 3,700 in Cameroon. South West Province, Manyu Division, Akwaya Subdivision,
along Nigeria border northwest of Mamfe. Alternate names: Boki, Byoki, Nfua, Nki,
Okii, Osikom, Osukam, Uki, Vaaneroki. Dialects: Basua, Boki, Iruan. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Cross River, Bendi
More information.
Bomwali [bmw] 6,080 in Cameroon (2000). East of Moloundou, Malapa village. Alternate
names: Bomali, Boumoali, Bumali, Lino, “Sangasanga”. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu,
Northwest, A, Makaa-Njem (A.80)
More information.
Bonkeng [bvg] 2,980 (2000). Littoral Province, Moungo Division, Loum Subdivision. Alternate
names: Bongken, Bonkeng-Pendia, Bonkenge. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-
Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, A,
Lundu-Balong (A.10)
More information.
Bubia [bbx] 600 (Voegelin and Voegelin 1977). South West Province, Fako Division, Limbe
Subdivision. Alternate names: Bobe, Bobea, Bota, Ewota, Wovea. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Northwest, A, Duala (A.20)
More information.
Buduma [bdm] 200 in Cameroon. Far North Province, Logone and Chari Division, islands of
Lake Chad. Alternate names: Boudouma, Yadena, Yedima, Yedina. Classification:
Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-Mandara, B, B.1, Buduma
More information.
Bulu [bum] 858,000 (2007). South Province, entire Ntem and Dja-and-Lobo divisions;
south Upper Sanaga Division; Center Province, north Nyong-and-Mfoumou Division;
East Province, part of Upper Nyong Division. Alternate names: Boulou. Dialects:
Yelinda, Yembana, Yengono, Zaman, Bene. Intelligible with Eton [eto], Ewondo
[ewo], and Fang [fak] as part of the Beti group. Different from Bulu [syi] (Sekiyani) of
Gabon. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, A, Yaunde-Fang (A.70)
More information.
Bum [bmv] 21,400 (2001 SIL). North West Province, Boyo Division, Bum Subdivision,
mainly Fonfuka village. Alternate names: Bom. Dialects: Lexical similarity: 71% with
 Kom [bkm]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Wide Grassfields, Narrow Grassfields, Ring, Center
More information.
Bung [bqd] 3 (1995 B. Connell). Near the Kwanja [knp]. Dialects: It may have been a form
of Kwanja. Classification: Unclassified Nearly extinct.
More information.
Busam [bxs] 1,490 (2000). North West Province, Momo Division, Batibo Subdivision, Bifang,
Ambambo, and Dinku villages. Dialects: Related to Ambele [ael], Atong [ato].
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Wide Grassfields, Western Momo
More information.
Busuu [bju] 8 (Breton 1986). North West Province, Menchum Division, Furu-Awa
Subdivision, Furu-Awa and Furu-Nangwa villages. Alternate names: Awa, Furu.
Dialects: Reportedly in Furu subgroup (2000 B. Connell). May be Jukunoid. Lexical
similarity: 10% with Jukun languages, 7%–8% with Beboid languages. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern,
Unclassified Nearly extinct.
More information.
Buwal [bhs] 7,000 (2001 SIL). Far North Province, Mayo-Tsanaga Division, Mokolo
Subdivision, Gadala area, south of Mokolo. Alternate names: Bual, Gadala, Ma
Buwal. Dialects: Lexical similarity: 90% with Gavar [gou]. Classification: Afro-Asiatic,
Chadic, Biu-Mandara, A, A.7
More information.
Byep [mkk] 9,500 (1988 SIL). East Province, north Upper Nyong Division, Messamena,
Abong-Mbang, Doume, Nguelemendouka subdivisions; Lom and Djerem Division,
east Diang Subdivision, west of Bertoua. Alternate names: Maka, Makya, Meka,
Mekae, Mekay, Mekey, Mekye, Mika, Moka, North Makaa. Dialects: Byep, Besep
(Besha, Bindafum). Not intelligible with South Makaa [mcp]. Related to South Makaa
and Kol [biw]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-
Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, A, Makaa-Njem (A.80)
More information.
Caka [ckx] 5,000 (Dieu and Renaud 1983). South West Province, Manyu Division, Akwaya
Subdivision, Asaka, Basaka and Batanga villages. Dialects: Assaka (Adzu Balaka),
Batanga (Adzu Batanga). Lexical similarity: 50% with Ipulo [ass], 40% with Balo [bqo],
Osatu [ost], Iceve-Maci [bec], and Otank [uta], 35% with Esimbi [ags], 30% with
Mesaka [iyo], 80% between the Assaka and Batanga dialects. Classification: Niger-
Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Tivoid
More information.
Cung [cug] 2,000 (2001 SIL). North West Province, Menchum Division, west of Nkambe,
northeast of Wum. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-
Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Beboid, Eastern
More information.
Cuvok [cuv] 5,000 (Dieu and Renaud 1983). Far North Province, Mayo-Tsanaga Division,
Mokolo Subdivision, Tchouvok area, Matakam South Canton, near Zamay. Alternate
names: Tchouvok. Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-Mandara, A, A.5
More information.
Daba [dbq] 24,000 in Cameroon (2007). Population total all countries: 25,000. North
Province, Mayo-Louti Division, northwest of Guider in Mayo-Oulo and Guider
subdivisions; Far North Province, Mayo-Tsanaga Division, Hina and Bourrah
subdivisions. Also in Nigeria. Alternate names: Dabba. Dialects: Nive, Pologozom.
Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-Mandara, A, A.7
More information.
Dama [dmm] 50. North Province, Benoue Division, Rey-Bouba Subdivision, a small group.
Dialects: May be a dialect of Mono [mru]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-
Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Adamawa, Mbum-Day, Mbum,
Northern, Dama-Galke Nearly extinct.
 More information.
Dek [dek] 2,980 (2000). North Province. Dialects: It may be intelligible with Kari [kbn] or
Mbum [mdd]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North,
Adamawa-Ubangi, Adamawa, Mbum-Day, Mbum, Unclassified
More information.
Denya [anv] 11,200 (1982 SIL). South West Province, Manyu Division, central and south
Akwaya Subdivision; north Mamfe Central Subdivision. Partially in Takamanda Forest
Reserve. Alternate names: Agnang, Anyah, Anyan, Anyang, Eyan, Nyang, Obonya,
Takamanda. Dialects: Basho, Bitieku, Takamanda, Bajwo. Dialect subgrouping.
Kendem [kvm] is linguistically between Denya [anv] and Kenyang [ken]. Lexical
similarity: 70%–80% among dialects. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Mamfe
More information.
Dii [dur] 47,000 (1982 SIL). North Province, Mayo-Rey Division, Tchollire Subdivision;
Adamawa Province, Vina Division, Ngaoundere Subdivision, north and east of
Ngaoundere. Alternate names: Dourou, Durru, Duru, Nyag Dii, Yag Dii, Zaa. Dialects:
Mambe’, Mamna’a, Goom, Boow, Ngbang, Sagzee (Saadje, Saakye), Vaazin, Home,
Nyok. Goom may be a separate language. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-
Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Adamawa, Leko-Nimbari, Duru, Dii
More information.
Dimbong [dii] 140 (1992 SIL). Ethnic population: 50,000. Center Province, Mbam Division,
northwest of Bafia. 2 villages. Alternate names: Bape, Bumbong, Kaalong, Kalong,
Lakaalong, Lambong, Mbong, Palong. Dialects: Related to Bafia [ksf], Hijuk [hij],
Tibea [ngy]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, A, Bafia (A.50)
More information.
Doyayo [dow] 18,000 (1985). North Province, Benoue Division, north Poli Subdivision and Poli
area. Alternate names: Doayo, Donyanyo, Donyayo, Doohyaayo, Doowaayo,
Dooyaayo, Dooyayo, Dowayayo, Dowayo, Doyaayo, Doyau, “Namchi” , “Namci” ,
“Namshi” , Nomai, Tunga, Tungbo, Tuuno. Dialects: Marke, Teere (Poli), Sewe.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi,
Adamawa, Leko-Nimbari, Duru, Voko-Dowayo, Vere-Dowayo, Dowayo
More information.
Duala [dua] 87,700 (1982 SIL). Littoral Province, Nkam Division, toward Yabassi and along
Wouri River; Moungo Division, Dibombari area; Wouri Division, Cameroon estuary
area; South West Province, Fako Division, both sides of Mungo River. Alternate
names: Diwala, Douala, Dualla, Dwala, Dwela. Dialects: Bodiman, Mungo (Mungu,
Muungo), Oli (Ewodi, Ouri, Uli, Wuri, Wouri, Koli), Pongo. Related to Malimba [mzd].
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, A, Duala (A.20)
More information.
Dugun [ndu] 7,000 (1997 L. Lode). North Province, Faro Division, Poli Subdivision, southeast
of Poli. Alternate names: Pa’non, Pani, Panon, Pape, Saa. Dialects: Saan, Naan.
Similar to Duupa [dae]. Lexical similarity: 80% with Dii [dur]. Classification: Niger-
Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Adamawa, Leko-
Nimbari, Duru, Dii
More information.
Dugwor [dme] 5,000 (2001 SIL). Far North Province, Diamare Division, Meri Subdivision, west
of Tchere Canton between Maroua and Meri, in 6 villages. Alternate names:
Dougour, Memekere, Mofu-Dugwor, Tchakidjebe. Dialects: Mikere. Classification:
Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-Mandara, A, A.5
More information.
Duli [duz] Extinct. North Province, Benoue Division, near Pitoa. Alternate names: Dui.
Dialects: Might have been the same as Gey [guv]. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Adamawa, Leko-Nimbari,
Duru, Duli
 More information.
Duupa [dae] 5,000 (1991 UBS). North Province, Faro and Benoue divisions, East of Poli.
Alternate names: Doupa, Dupa, Nduupa, Saa. Dialects: Related to Dugun [ndu].
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi,
Adamawa, Leko-Nimbari, Duru, Dii
More information.
Dzodinka [add] 2,600 in Cameroon (2000). North West Province, Donga-Mantung Division,
extreme north Nwa Subdivision, Adere village. Also in Nigeria. Alternate names:
Adere, Adiri, Arderi, Dzodzinka. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-
Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Wide Grassfields, Narrow Grassfields,
Mbam-Nkam, Nkambe
More information.
Ejagham [etu] 49,400 in Cameroon (2000). South West Province, Manyu Division, Eyumodjok
Subdivision; south Mamfe Subdivision west of Mamfe. Alternate names: Edjagam,
Ejagam, Ejaham, Ejwe, Ekoi, Etung, Keaka, Kwa, Obang. Dialects: Western Ejagham,
Eastern Ejagham, Southern Ejagham (Ekin, Kwa, Qua, Aqua, Abakpa). Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Ekoid
More information.
Elip [ekm] 6,400 (1982 SIL). Center Province, Mbam Division, Elip Canton, southeast of
Bokito toward Mbam and Sanaga rivers, Yambasa. Alternate names: Belibi, Belip,
Central Yambassa, Libie, Nulibie. Dialects: Related to Mmaala [mmu], Yangben
[yav]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Mbam, Yambasa (A.60)
More information.
Eman [emn] 800 (1990 SIL). South West Province, Manyu Division, Akwaya Subdivision,
Amayo, Amanavil, Akalabo, and Akalam Gomo towns. Alternate names: Emane.
Dialects: Amayo, Amanavil (Aman, Amana, Amani, Elaka). Lexical similarity: 70% with
Caka [ckx], 60% with Ipulo [ass], 40% with Iceve-Maci [bec] and Otank [uta], 35%
with Esimbi [ags], 30% with Mesaka [lyo]. The Amayo and Amanavil dialects have
80% lexical similarity. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo,
Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Tivoid
More information.
English [eng] Mainly South West and North West provinces. Classification: Indo-European,
Germanic, West, English
More information.
Esimbi [ags] 20,000 in Cameroon (1982 SIL). North West Province, Menchum Division,
Menchum Valley Subdivision, from Benakuma into Nigeria. Also in Nigeria. Alternate
names: Aage, Age, Bogue, Essimbi, Isimbi, Mburugam, Simpi. Dialects: Lexical
similarity: 35% with Balo [bqo], Ipulo [ass], Iceve-Maci [bec]. Classification: Niger-
Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Tivoid
More information.
Eton [eto] 52,000 (1982 SIL). Center Province, most of Lekie Division. Alternate names:
Iton. Dialects: Essele, Mvog-Namve, Mvo-Nangkok, Beyidzolo. Intelligible with Bulu
[bum], Ewondo [ewo], Fang [fak] as part of the Beti [btb] language. Most similar to
Mengisa [met]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-
Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, A, Yaunde-Fang (A.70)
More information.
Evant [bzz] 1,000 in Cameroon (1996 SIL). South West Province, Manyu Division, Akwaya
Subdivision, Atolo and Matene I villages. Alternate names: Avand, Avande, Balegete,
Belegete, Evand, Ovand, Ovande, Ovando. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-
Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Tivoid
More information.
Ewondo [ewo] 578,000 (1982 SIL). Center Province, all except the east Mefou Division;
Mfoundi and Nyong-and-So divisions; south Nyong-and-Mfoumou Division; South
Province, north Ocean Division. Alternate names: Ewundu, Jaunde, Yaounde,
Yaunde. Dialects: Badjia (Bakjo), Bafeuk, Bamvele (Mvele, Yezum, Yesoum), Bane,
 Beti, Fong, Mbida-Bani, Mvete, Mvog-Niengue, Omvang, Yabekolo (Yebekolo),
Yabeka, Yabekanga, Enoah, Evouzok. It is intelligible with Bulu [bum], Eton [eto],
Fang [fak] as part of the Beti [btb] language. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-
Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, A,
Yaunde-Fang (A.70)
More information.
Fali, North [fll] 16,000 (1982 SIL). North Province, Mayo-Louti Division, Mayo-Oulo Subdivision,
Dourbeye and Mayo-Oulo area. Dialects: Dourbeye (Fali-Dourbeye), Bossoum (Fali-
Bossoum, Bonum), Bveri (Fali du Peske-Bori, Peske, Bori). Classification: Niger-
Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Adamawa, Fali
More information.
Fali, South [fal] 20,000 (1982 SIL). Hossere Bapara area, Tsolaram, Hossere Toro, and Ndoudja;
North Province, Benoue Division, northeast of Garoua, Pitoa Subdivision, south of
Dembo. Dialects: Fali-Tinguelin (Ndoudja, Mango, Ram, Toro), Kangou (Kaang, Kangu,
Fali Kangou), Bele (Ngoutchoumi, Fali-Bele, Fali du Bele-Fere). Classification: Niger-
Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Adamawa, Fali
More information.
Fang [fak] 2,400 (2001 SIL). North West Province, Menchum Division, Wum Subdivision,
northeast of Wum, Fang village. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-
Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Beboid, Western
More information.
Fang [fan] 121,000 in Cameroon (2006). South Province, half of Dja-and-Lobo Division
(south of Djoum); southeast Ntem Division (south of Mvangan); Ocean Division,
between Lolodorf and Kribi. Alternate names: Pahouin, Pamue. Dialects: Fang
(Okak), Mvae (Mvan, Mvay), Ntoumou (Ntumu). Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu,
Northwest, A, Yaunde-Fang (A.70)
More information.
Fe’fe’ [fmp] 124,000 (1982 SIL). West Province, Upper Nkam Division (except Kekem area
and small section in southeast corner); some in Mifi Division, Bangam. Alternate
names: Bafang, Bamileke-Fe’fe’, Fe’efe’e, Feefee, Fefe, Fotouni, Nufi. Dialects: Fa’
(Bafang), Nka’ (Banka), Nee (Bana), Njee-Poantu (Bandja-Babountou), Ntii (Fondanti),
Mkwet (Fondjomekwet), La’fi (Balafi), Tungi’ (Fotouni), Ngam (Bangan), Ca’. First 4
dialects listed belong to Central Fe’fe’, next 5 belong to North Fe’fe’. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Wide
Grassfields, Narrow Grassfields, Mbam-Nkam, Bamileke
More information.
French [fra] Used mainly in the Littoral, West, Center, South, East, Adamawa, North, and Far
North provinces. Classification: Indo-European, Italic, Romance, Italo-Western,
Western, Gallo-Iberian, Gallo-Romance, Gallo-Rhaetian, Oïl, French
More information.
Fulfulde, Adamawa [fub] 669,000 in Cameroon (1986). Possibly 13,000,000 speakers of all Fulfulde.
Population total all countries: 919,600. Widespead in Far North, North and Adamawa
provinces. Also in Chad, Nigeria, Sudan, United States. Alternate names: Adamawa
Fulani, Biira, Boulbe, Domona, Dzemay, Eastern Fulani, Foulfoulde, Ful, Fula, Fulbe,
Fulfulde, Gapelta, Palata, Paldena, Paldida, Pelta Hay, Peul, Peulh, Pladina, Pule,
Pullo, Sanyo, Taareyo, Zaakosa, Zemay. Dialects: Maroua, Garoua, Ngaondéré,
Kambariire, Nomadic Fulfulde, Bilkire Fulani (Bilkiri). Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Atlantic, Northern, Senegambian, Fulani-Wolof, Fula, Eastern
More information.
Fulfulde, Kano-Katsina- [fuv] North. Alternate names: Fulbe, Peul. Dialects: Kano-Katsina, Bororro (Bororo,
Bororro Mbororo, Ako, Nomadic Fulfulde). Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Atlantic, Northern, Senegambian, Fulani-Wolof, Fula, East Central
More information.
Gavar [gou] 7,000 (2001 SIL). Far North Province, Mayo-Tsanaga Division, Mokolo
Subdivision, Mogode Canton, Gawar area, south of Mokolo. One group of Gavar
 Hossere lives among Gavar-Fulfulde, and another isolated in mountains around
Kortchi village. Alternate names: Gauar, Gawar, Gouwar, Kortchi, Ma-Gavar, Rtchi.
Dialects: Lexical similarity: 90% with Buwal [bhs]. Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Chadic,
Biu-Mandara, A, A.7
More information.
Gbaya, Northwest [gya] 72,500 in Cameroon (1980). Vast area: North Province, Mayo-Rey Division,
south of Touboro; Adamawa Province, Mbere Division, Meiganga Subdivision;
Djerem Division, Ngaoundal and Tibati Subdivisions; Faro and Deo Division, Tignere
Subdivision; East Province, Lom and Djerem Division, Garoua Boulay, Betare-Oya,
and Bertoua subdivisions; Kadey Division, Kette Subdivision; Boumba and Ngoko
Division, Gari-Gombo Subdivision. Alternate names: Baya. Dialects: Banginda, Mbai,
Gaymona, Lai (Lay), Lombu, Mbere, Mombe, Yaáyuwee (Yaiwe, Kalla). Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Gbaya-
Manza-Ngbaka, Northwest
More information.
Gbaya-Mbodomo [gmm] 20,000 (2007 SIL). East Province, Lom and Djerem Division, Bétaré-Oya
Subdivision; Ngoura District. Dialects: Dooka. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-
Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Gbaya-Manza-Ngbaka,
Southwest
More information.
Gey [guv] No known speakers. Ethnic population: 1,900 (1982 SIL). North Province,
Benoue Division, east of Pitoa. Alternate names: Gewe, Gueve. Classification: Niger-
Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Adamawa, Gueve
More information.
Ghomálá’ [bbj] 260,000 (1982 SIL). West Province, most of Mifi Division (except extreme south
and pockets north and west); Mifi Division, Bamendjou Subdivision; east Menoua
Division; a pocket in south Bamboutos Division. Alternate names: Baloum, Bamileke-
Bandjoun, Bandjoun, Banjoun-Baham, Banjun, Batie, Mahum, Mandju. Dialects:
Ghomálá’ Central (Bandjoun, Jo, We, Hom, Yogam, Baham), Ghomálá’ North (Fusap,
Lang), Ghomálá’ South (Te, Pa, Dengkwop), Ngemba (Bamenjou, Fu’da, Sa, Monjo,
Meka, Mugum). Bameka, Bansoa, and Balessing are subdialects of South Ghomálá’,
North Ghomálá’ has 2 subdialects, Central Ghomálá’ 4, and Ngemba 5. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Wide
Grassfields, Narrow Grassfields, Mbam-Nkam, Bamileke
More information.
Gidar [gid] 54,000 in Cameroon (1982 SIL). Population total all countries: 65,700. North
Province, Mayo-Louti Division, Guider and Figuil subdivisions; Far North Province, a
small section of Diamare Division. Also in Chad. Alternate names: Baynawa, Gidder,
Guidar, Guider, Kada. Dialects: Lam. Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-
Mandara, C
More information.
Gimme [kmp] 3,000 (1982 SIL). North Province, Faro Division, on Saptou Plain, west of Poli
along Nigeria border in Alantika Mountains. Alternate names: Koma Kompana,
Kompana, Kompara, Panbe. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-
Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Adamawa, Leko-Nimbari, Duru, Voko-Dowayo,
Vere-Dowayo, Vere-Gimme, Gimme
More information.
Gimnime [gmn] 3,000 (1982 SIL). North Province, Faro Division, Wangay area in Alantika
Mountains, northwest of Poli along Nigeria border. Alternate names: Gimbe, Kadam,
Koma Kadam, Komlama, Laame, Yotubo. Dialects: Ritime. Similar to Gimme [kmp].
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi,
Adamawa, Leko-Nimbari, Duru, Voko-Dowayo, Vere-Dowayo, Vere-Gimme, Gimme
More information.
Giziga, North [gis] 20,000 (1982 SIL). Far North Province, Diamare Division, Meri Subdivision, in
Tchere and Mogazang massifs and Dogba plains, north and west of Maroua.
Alternate names: Dogba, Gisiga, Gisika, Giziga de, Guiziga, Maroua, Marva, Mi Marva,
 Tchere. Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-Mandara, A, A.5
More information.
Giziga, South [giz] 60,000 (1991 UBS). Far North Province, Diamare and Kaele divisions, in Diamare
plains, southwest of Maroua. Alternate names: Gisiga, Gisika, Guiziga. Dialects:
Muturami (Muturwa, Muturua, Giziga de Moutouroua, Loulou), Mi Mijivin (Giziga de
Midjivin), Rum. Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-Mandara, A, A.5
More information.
Glavda [glw] 2,800 in Cameroon (1982 SIL). Far North Province, Mayo-Tsanaga Division, Koza
Subdivision, on Nigeria Border, south of Ashigashia, Gelvaxdaxa village area.
Alternate names: Galavda, Galvaxdaxa, Gelvaxdaxa, Guelebda, Vale. Classification:
Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-Mandara, A, A.4, Mandara Proper, Glavda
More information.
Gude [gde] 28,000 in Cameroon. Far North Province, Mayo-Tsanaga Division, south
Bourrah Subdivision, north and northwest of Dourbeye; North Province, Mayo-Louti
Division, extreme north-west Mayo-Oulo Subdivision. Alternate names: Cheke,
Goude, Mapodi, Mocigin, Motchekin, Mubi, Mudaye, Shede, Tchade, Tcheke.
Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-Mandara, A, A.8
More information.
Gvoko [ngs] 1,000 in Cameroon (2000 SIL). Far North Province, Mayo-Tsanaga Division,
Mokolo Subdivision, north of Tourou, Ngoshi village (different from Nggoshe).
Alternate names: Gavoko, Gevoko, Ghboko, Kuvoko, Ngoshe-Ndhang, Ngoshi,
Ngossi. Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-Mandara, A, A.4, Mandara Proper,
Glavda
More information.
Gyele [gyi] 4,250 in Cameroon. Population total all countries: 4,279. South Province, Ocean
Division, Kribi and Lolodorf subdivisions, Kribi forest area, and along Kribi to Lolodorf
road. Also in Equatorial Guinea. Alternate names: Babinga, Bagiele, Bagyele, Bajele,
Bajeli, Bako, Bakola, Bakuele, Bekoe, Bogyel, Bogyeli, Bondjiel, Giele, Gieli, Gyeli,
Likoya. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, A, Makaa-Njem (A.80)
More information.
Hausa [hau] 23,500 in Cameroon (1982 SIL). Widespread. Alternate names: Haoussa,
Hawsa. Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, West, A, A.1
More information.
Hdi [xed] 25,000 in Cameroon (2001 SIL). Population total all countries: 29,000. Far North
Province, Mayo-Tsanaga Division, Mokolo Subdivision, Nigeria border northwest of
Mokolo. 15 villages. Also in Nigeria. Alternate names: Hedi, Hide, Turu-Hide, Xadi,
Xedi. Dialects: Tur (Turu, Tourou, Ftour). 51% intelligibility with Vemgo-Mabas
[vem], 48% with Lamang [hia], 35% with Gvoko [ngs]. Lexical similarity: 78% with
Vemgo-Mabas, 64% with Lamang, 56% with Gvoko. Classification: Afro-Asiatic,
Chadic, Biu-Mandara, A, A.4, Lamang
More information.
Hijuk [hij] 400 (1992 SIL). Center Province, Mbam Division, Bokito Subdivision, southwest
of Bokito. 1 village area. Dialects: Lexical similarity: 45% with Bafia [ksf], 84% with
Basaa [bas]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, A, Bafia (A.50)
More information.
Hya [hya] 940 in Cameroon (2002 SIL). Far North Province, Mayo-Tsanaga Division,
Mokolo Subdivision, Amsa. Also in Nigeria. Alternate names: Ghye, Za. Dialects:
Similar to Kamwe [hig] of Nigeria. Lexical similarity: 62% with Psikye [kvj].
Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-Mandara, A, A.3
More information.
Iceve-Maci [bec] 7,000 in Cameroon (1990). Population total all countries: 12,000. South West
Province, Manyu Division, north and south of Akwaya. Also in Nigeria. Alternate
names: Bacheve, Bechere, Becheve, Icheve, Ocebe, Ochebe, Ocheve, Utse, Utser,
Utseu. Dialects: Icheve (Bacheve), Oliti (Maci, Matchi, Oliti-Akwaya, Olithi, Olit,
 Kwaya, Akwaya Motom, Motomo, Ihekwot). Lexical similarity: 80% between the Maci
and Bacheve dialects, 60% with Otank [uta], 50% with Evant [bzz] and Tiv [tiv], 40%
with Eman [emn] and Mesaka [iyo], 35% with Esimbi [ags]. Classification: Niger-
Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Tivoid
More information.
Ipulo [ass] 2,500 (1990 SIL). South West Province, Manyu Division, Akwaya Subdivision,
southeast of Akwaya. Alternate names: Assumbo, Asumbo, Badzumbo. Dialects:
Olulu, Tinta, Etongo. Lexical similarity: 90% between the Olulu and Tinta dialects.
Lexical similarity 60% with Eman [emn], 50% with Caka [ckx], 40% with Balo [bqo]
and Osatu [ost], 35% with Esimbi [ags]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Tivoid
More information.
Isu [isu] 10,400 (1994 SIL). North West Province, Menchum Division, Wum Central
Subdivision, widespread to Nigeria border. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-
Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Wide Grassfields, Narrow
Grassfields, Ring, West
More information.
Isu [szv] 800 (1982 SIL). South West Province, Fako Division, Tiko Subdivision, Bimbia
estuary area east of Limbe and west of Douala. Alternate names: Bimbia, Isubu,
Isuwu, Su, Subu. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-
Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, A, Duala (A.20)
More information.
Iyive [uiv] 1,000 in Cameroon (1996 WT). Population total all countries: 2,000. South West
Province, Manyu Division, northeast of Akwaya on Nigeria border, Yive village. Also
in Nigeria. Alternate names: Uive, Yiive. Dialects: Lexical similarity: 75% with Tiv
[tiv]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Tivoid
More information.
Jimi [jim] 3,500 (1982 SIL). Far North Province, Mayo-Tsanaga Division, on Nigeria border,
Bourrha area. Alternate names: ’Um Falin, Djimi, Jimjimen. Dialects: Djimi, Zumo
(Zumu, Zomo, Zame), Jimo, Wadi (Wa’i), Malabu. Similar to Gude [gde].
Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-Mandara, A, A.8
More information.
Jina [jia] 1,500 (2001 H. Tourneux). 1,500 all Jina (2004 H. Tourneux). Far North Province,
Logone-and-Chari Division, south Logone-Birni Subdivision, Zina area and east of
Waza. Alternate names: Zina. Dialects: Jina (Zine), Sarassara, Tchide (Sede), Muxule
(Muxuli, Ngodeni), Mae. People in Zina say they understand Lagwan [kot] and Musgu
[mug] better than Jina. Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-Mandara, B, B.1, Jina
More information.
Jukun Takum [jbu] 2,440 in Cameroon (2000). Population total all countries: 2,451. North West
Province, Menchum Division, Furu-Awa Subdivision, Ntjieka, Furu-Turuwa, and Furu-
Sambari villages. Also in Nigeria. Alternate names: Diyu, Jukun, Njikum. Dialects:
Takum, Donga (Akpanzhi). Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo,
Benue-Congo, Jukunoid, Central, Jukun-Mbembe-Wurbo, Jukun
More information.
Kako [kkj] 100,000 in Cameroon (2003 SIL). Population total all countries: 119,460. East
Province, Kadey Division, Batouri and Ndelele Subdivisions. Also in Central African
Republic, Congo. Alternate names: Dikaka, Kaka, Mkako, Nkoxo, Yaka. Dialects:
Mbonjoku, Besembo, Bera, Ngbako. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, A, Kako
(A.90)
More information.
Kamkam [bgu] Adamawa Province, Mayo-Banyo Division, Mambila Plateau. Alternate names:
Bungnu, Bungun, Bunu, Gbunhu, Kakaba, Mbongno. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Northern, Mambiloid, Mambila-
Konja, Magu-Kamkam-Kila
 More information.
Kanuri, Central [knc] 56,500 in Cameroon (1982 SIL). Far North Province, Mayo-Sava Division, mainly
north of Mora between Limani and Bounderi, and Kolofata Subdivision; Diamare
Division, Maroua and Bogo Subdivisions; Kaele and Mayo-Danay divisions, as far as
Mindif and Guirvidig. Alternate names: “Baribari” , “Beriberi” , Bornouan, Bornouans,
Bornu, Kanouri, Kanoury, Kole, Kolere, Sirata, Yerwa Kanuri. Dialects: Mowor
(Movar), Dagara, Kaga (Kagama), Sugurti, Lare, Kwayam, Njesko, Kabari (Kuvuri),
Ngazar, Guvja, Mao, Temageri, Fadawa, Maiduguri. Classification: Nilo-Saharan,
Saharan, Western, Kanuri
More information.
Karang [kzr] 17,000 in Cameroon (1991 SIL). Population total all countries: 18,000. North
Province, Mayo-Rey Division, Madingring District [homeland], south border of Bouba
Ndjida National Park, south from Madingring, southeast to Lawzigoy (toward
Touboro). 25 villages. [displaced: Garoua, Ngong, Ngaoundéré, Touboro (and
surrounding villages), Tcholliré]. Also in Chad. Alternate names: Mbum, Mbum-East.
Dialects: Ngumi. Related to Pana [pnz], Nzakambay [nzy], Kuo [xuo], and Mbere
[mdt]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-
Ubangi, Adamawa, Mbum-Day, Mbum, Eastern Mbum, Karang
More information.
Kare [kbn] 4,460 in Cameroon (2000). Adamawa Province, Vina Division, Belel area; North
Province, Mayo-Rey Division. Alternate names: Kali, Kari, Karré. Dialects: Tale, Kari.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi,
Adamawa, Mbum-Day, Mbum, Eastern Mbum, Karang
More information.
Kemezung [dmo] 4,500 (2001 SIL). North West Province, Donga-Mantung Division, Misaje
Subdivision, northwest of Nkambe, Dumbu town, Kwei village. Alternate names:
Dumbo, Dzumbo, Kumaju. Dialects: Member of the Eastern Beboid subgroup. Lexical
similarity: 85% with Bebe [bzv]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-
Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Beboid, Eastern
More information.
Kendem [kvm] 1,500 (2001 SIL). South West Province, Manyu Division, Tinto and Upper
Bayang subdivisions, east of Mamfe: Kendem, Kekpoti, and Bokwa villages. Alternate
names: Bokwa-Kendem. Dialects: Higher lexical similarity with Denya [anv] but
higher intelligibility of Kenyang [ken]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Mamfe
More information.
Kenswei Nsei [ndb] 25,000 (2008). North West Province, Ngo Ketunjia Division, Ndop Subdivision,
west of Ndop on Ndop Plain, Bamessing village area. Alternate names: Bamessing,
Befi, Calebasses, Kensense, Melamba, Mesing, Ndop-Bamessing, Nsei, Veteng,
Vetweng. Dialects: Similar to Vengo [bav], Wushi [bse], Bamunka [bvm].
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Wide Grassfields, Narrow Grassfields, Ring, South
More information.
Kenyang [ken] 65,000 (1992 SIL). South West Province, Manyu Division, Mamfe Central and
Upper Banyang subdivisions, around and southwest of Mamfe; Kupe-Muanenguba
Division, west corner of Nguti Subdivision. Alternate names: Banjangi, Banyang,
Banyangi, Bayangi, Manyang, Nyang. Dialects: Upper Kenyang (Haut-Kenyang),
Lower Kenyang (Bas-Kenyang), Bakoni (Upper Balong, Northern Balong, Manyemen,
Kicwe, Kitwii, Twii, Manyeman). Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-
Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Mamfe
More information.
Kera [ker] 6,000 in Cameroon. Far North Province, Mayo-Danay Division, Southeast of
Doukoula. Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, East, A, A.3
More information.
Kol [biw] 12,000 (1988 SIL). 1,000 in Bikeng. East Province, Upper Nyong Division,
Messamena area. Alternate names: Bekol, Bikele-Bikay, Bikele-Bikeng. Dialects:
 Bikele, Bikeng, Kol North, Kol South. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, A, Makaa-
Njem (A.80)
More information.
Kolbila [klc] 2,500 (1997 L. Lode). North Province, Faro Division, Bantadje Canton, southeast
of Poli, and east between Ngaoundere and Garoua. Alternate names: Kolbilari,
Kolbili, Kolbilla, Kolena, Zoono. Dialects: Related to Samba Leko [ndi]. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Adamawa,
Leko-Nimbari, Leko
More information.
Kom [bkm] 233,000 (2005), increasing. 30% monolingual. Ethnic population:
232,600. North West Province, south Boyo Division; 20,000 in major urban centers.
Alternate names: Bamekon, Bikom, Kong, Nkom. Dialects: Mbizenaku (Mbesa,
Itangimbesa). Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-
Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Wide Grassfields, Narrow Grassfields, Ring, Center
More information.
Koma [kmy] 3,000 in Cameroon (1984 SIL). North Province, Faro Division, northwest of
Tchamba in Alantika Mountains along Nigeria border. Alternate names: Kuma.
Dialects: Koma Ndera, Koma Damti, Leelu, Bangru, Zanu, Liu, Yeru. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Adamawa,
Leko-Nimbari, Duru, Voko-Dowayo, Vere-Dowayo, Vere-Gimme, Vere
More information.
Koonzime [ozm] 30,000 (2000 SIL). East Province, Upper Nyong Division, Lomie area (north and
northwest, south and southeast to Dja River). Alternate names: Djimu, Dzimou,
Kooncimo, Koozhime, Koozime, Nzime, Zimu. Dialects: Nzime (Koonzime), Badwe’e
(Badjoue, Bajwe’e, Koozime). Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-
Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, A, Makaa-Njem
(A.80)
More information.
Korop [krp] 7,440 in Cameroon (2000). South West Province, Ndian Division, along Nigeria
border, northwest of Mundemba. Alternate names: Durop, Dyurop, Erorup, Ododop.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Cross River,
Delta Cross, Upper Cross, Kiong-Korop
More information.
Koshin [kid] 1,000 (2001 SIL). North West Province, Menchum Division, Wum Subdivision,
Koshin village. Alternate names: Kaw, Kosin, Kusheen Benubcouh. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Beboid,
Western
More information.
Kuk [kfn] 3,000 (2001 SIL). North-West Province, Menchum Division, Fungom Subdivision,
Ring Road between Weh and Bafmeng. 6 villages. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Wide Grassfields,
Narrow Grassfields, Ring, Center
More information.
Kung [kfl] 1,750 (2001 SIL). North-West Province, Menchum Division, Fungom Subdivision.
1 village. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Wide Grassfields, Narrow Grassfields, Ring, Center
More information.
Kuo [xuo] 2,980 in Cameroon (2000). North Province, between Sorombeo and Chad
border, and Garoua area. Alternate names: Ko, Koh. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Adamawa, Mbum-Day,
Mbum, Eastern Mbum, Koh
More information.
Kutep [kub] 1,400 in Cameroon (Breton 1986). North West Province, Menchum Division,
Furu-Awa Subdivision, Baji and Lubu villages near Nigeria border. Alternate names:
Ati, “Jompre” , Kuteb, Kutev, Mbarike, Zumper. Dialects: Jenuwa, Lissam, Fikyu,
 Kunabe, Kentin. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-
Congo, Jukunoid, Yukuben-Kuteb
More information.
Kwa’ [bko] 1,000 (2000 SIL). Littoral Province, Nkam Division, east Nkondjok Subdivision;
West Province, southwest corner of Nde Division. Alternate names: Bakoa, Bakwa,
Bamileke-Kwa. Dialects: Kwa’ (Bekwa’, Bakoua, Babwa, Mipa), Mbyam.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Wide Grassfields, Narrow Grassfields, Mbam-Nkam, Bamileke
More information.
Kwaja [kdz] 2,980 (2000). North West Province, Donga-Mantung Division, Nkambe
Subdivision. Dialects: Possibly intelligible with other Mfumte languages.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Wide Grassfields, Narrow Grassfields, Mbam-Nkam, Nkambe
More information.
Kwakum [kwu] 10,000 (2002 SIL). East Province, Upper Nyong Division, Dimako and Doume
subdivisions; Lom-and-Djerem Division, north of Bertoua; Belabo Subdivision.
Alternate names: Abakoum, Abakum, Akpwakum, Bakum, Kpakum, Pakum. Dialects:
Kwakum, Beten (Bethen, Petem), Til, Baki (Mbaki). Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu,
Northwest, A, Kako (A.90)
More information.
Kwanja [knp] 20,000 (1991 UBS). Adamawa Province, Mayo-Banyo Division, northeast Tikar
Plain, south of Mayo-Darle between Banyo and Bankim. Alternate names: Kondja,
Konja. Dialects: Nyasunda, Nyandung, Nyanjang (Njang, Njanga). Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Northern,
Mambiloid, Mambila-Konja, Konja
More information.
Kwasio [nmg] 9,000 in Cameroon (1982 SIL). Population total all countries: 17,500. South
Province, Ocean Division, Kribi and Lolodorf subdivisions, Kribi forests area; Kribi to
Lolodorf. Also in Equatorial Guinea. Alternate names: Ngumba. Dialects: Kwasio
(Kwassio, Bisio), Mvumbo (Ngumba, Ngoumba, Mgoumba, Mekuk), Mabi (Mabea).
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, A, Makaa-Njem (A.80)
More information.
La’bi [lbi] 4,400 (2006). North Province, Mayo-Rey Division, Touboro Subdivision.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi,
Adamawa, La’bi
More information.
Lagwan [kot] 1,500 in Cameroon (Tourneux 2004). 10,000 all Lagwan, 40,000 all Kotoko
languages (Tourneux 2004). Majority in Cameroon (2005 S. Allison). Far North
Province, Logone-and-Chari Division, north of Waza National Park in Logone-Birni
Subdivision, Logone River bank across to Nigeria border. Also in Chad. Alternate
names: Kotoko-Logone, Lagouane, Lagwane, Logone. Dialects: Logone-Birni, Logone-
Gana (Kotoko-Gana). Related to Mser [kqx], Afade [aal], Malgbe [mxf], Maslam
[msv], Mpade [mpi]. Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-Mandara, B, B.1, Kotoko
Proper, South
More information.
Laimbue [lmx] 5,000 (1994 SIL). North West Province, Menchum Division, Wum Central
Subdivision; Boyo Division, Fundong Subdivision. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Wide Grassfields,
Narrow Grassfields, Ring, West
More information.
Lamnso’ [lns] 125,000 in Cameroon (1987 SIL). North West Province, Bui Division, east Kumbo
and Jakiri Subdivisions, northeast of Bamenda, Kumbo area. Also in Nigeria. Alternate
names: Bansaw, Banso, Banso’, Lamnsok, Lamso, Nsaw, Nsho’, Nso, Nso’, Panso.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
 Southern, Wide Grassfields, Narrow Grassfields, Ring, East
More information.
Lefa [lfa] 10,000. Center Province, Mbam and Inoubou Division, Bafia Subdivision.
Alternate names: Balom, Fak, Lefa’. Dialects: Lefa, Cama (Tempanye), Tingong,
Letia. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, A, Bafia (A.50)
More information.
Leti [leo] Center Province, Lekie Division, north Sa’a Subdivision, Sanaga River bend.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Mbam, Sanaga (A.60)
More information.
Limbum [lmp] 73,000 in Cameroon (1982 SIL). North West Province, Donga-Mantung Division,
Nkambe Subdivision, Nkambe and Ndu area. Also in Nigeria. Alternate names: Bojiin,
Limbom, Llimbumi, Ndzungle, Ndzungli, Njungene, Nsungali, Nsungli, Nsungni,
Wimbum. Dialects: Wiyeh, Tang, Wat. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Wide Grassfields, Narrow Grassfields,
Mbam-Nkam, Nkambe
More information.
Longto [wok] 2,400 (1982 SIL). North Province, Faro Division, Poli Subdivision, southwest of
Poli to Faro Reserve, Voko area. Alternate names: Boko, Gobeyo, Longa, Longbo,
Lonto, Voko, Woko. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North,
Adamawa-Ubangi, Adamawa, Leko-Nimbari, Duru, Voko-Dowayo, Voko
More information.
Luo [luw] 1 (1995 B. Connell). A section of Atta. Classification: Unclassified Nearly
extinct.
More information.
Mada [mxu] 17,000 (1982 SIL). Far North Province, Mayo-Sava Division, Tokombere
Subdivision, Mada massif at edge of Mandara Mountains and neighboring plain.
Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-Mandara, A, A.5
More information.
Mafa [maf] 136,000 in Cameroon (1982 SIL). Population total all countries: 140,910. Far
North Province, Mayo-Tsanaga Division, from Mokolo north. Also in Nigeria.
Alternate names: “Matakam” , Mofa, Natakan. Dialects: West Mafa (Magoumaz,
Mavoumay), Central Mafa (Ouzal, Koza, Mokola, Mokolo, Ldamtsai), East Mafa
(Soulede, Roua). Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-Mandara, A, A.5
More information.
Majera [xmj] 500 in Cameroon (Tourneux 2004). 500 all Majera (Tourneux 2004). Far North
Province, Logone-and-Chari Division, extreme south Logone-Birni Subdivision, Majera
area. Also in Chad. Alternate names: Mazera. Dialects: Majera (Mazra), Kajire-’dulo,
Hwalem (Holom). Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-Mandara, B, B.1, Jina
More information.
Makaa [mcp] 80,000 (1987 SIL). East Province, north Upper Nyong Division, Messamena,
Abong-Mbang, Doume, Nguelemendouka Subdivisions. Alternate names: Mekaa,
South Makaa, South Mekaa. Dialects: Bebent (Bebende, Biken, Bewil, Bemina),
Mbwaanz, Sekunda. Related to Byep [mkk], Kol [biw]. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu,
Northwest, A, Makaa-Njem (A.80)
More information.
Malgbe [mxf] 6,000 in Cameroon (Tourneux 2004). Far North Province, Logone-and-Chari
Division, Chari River area, Goulfey and Goulfey Subdivision, north of Kousseri. Also in
Chad. Alternate names: Goulfei, Gulfe, Gulfei, Malbe, Malgwe, Ngwalkwe, Sanbalbe.
Dialects: Malgbe (Goulfei), Mara, Dro, Douguia (Dugiya). Related to Afade [aal],
Maslam [msv], Mpade [mpi], Mser [kqx], Lagwan [kot]. Classification: Afro-Asiatic,
Chadic, Biu-Mandara, B, B.1, Kotoko Proper, North
More information.
Malimba [mzd] 2,230 (2001 SIL). Littoral Province, Sanaga-Maritime Division, small pocket
north of Edea, and Sanaga River mouth area. Alternate names: Lemba, Limba,
Mudima, Mulimba. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-
Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, A, Duala (A.20)
More information.
Mambai [mcs] 8,000 in Cameroon (2002 SIL). Population total all countries: 10,000. North
Province, Benoue Division, extreme north Bibemi Subdivision, along Mayo-Kebi River
near Chad border. Also in Chad. Alternate names: Mambay, Mamgbay, Mamgbei,
Manbai, Mangbai, Mangbei, Mongbay. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Adamawa, Mbum-Day, Mbum, Northern,
Tupuri-Mambai
More information.
Mambila, Cameroon [mcu] 30,000 (1993 UBS). Adamawa Province, on Nigeria border, northwest Mayo-
Banyo Division, Banyo and Bankim Subdivisions. Alternate names: Bang, Bea, Ble,
Juli, Lagubi, Mambere, Mambilla, Nor, Tagbo, Tongbo, Torbi. Dialects: Ju Ba, Sunu
Torbi (Torbi), Ju Naare (Mambila de Gembu), Langa. Closely related to Mvanlip [mcj]
(Magu) in Nigeria. Similar to Mambila [mzk] of Nigeria. Dialect continuum; one end
unintelligible to speakers of the other. Langa inherently intelligible to some, but not
most, dialects. At least 4 dialects in Cameroon. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-
Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Northern, Mambiloid, Mambila-Konja,
Mambila
More information.
Manta [myg] 5,300 (2001 SIL). South West Province, Manyu Division northeast of Mamfe,
from Mom border, Akwaya Subdivision, to Manta, Mamfe Subdivision. About 20
villages. Alternate names: Anta, Banta, Bantakpa, Kisam, Menta, Tinta. Dialects:
Most similar to Atong [ato]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-
Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Tivoid
More information.
Masana [mcn] 103,000 in Cameroon (1982 SIL). Far North Province, southeast Mayo-Danay
Division, Yagoua area. Alternate names: “Banana” , Masa, Massa, Walia. Dialects:
Yagwa (Yagoua), Domo, Walya, Bongor, Wina (Viri), Gizay (Guissey), Budugum.
Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Masa
More information.
Maslam [msv] 250 in Cameroon (Tourneux 2004). Nearly all are in Cameroon. Far North
Province, Logone-and-Chari Division, Makari Subdivision, northwest of Kousseri,
Maltam and Saho. Also in Chad. Dialects: Maslam (Maltam), Sao (Sahu). Related to
Afade [aal], Mpade [mpi], Malgbe [mxf], Mser [kqx], Lagwan [kot]. Speakers may be
able to use literature in one of these languages. Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Chadic,
Biu-Mandara, B, B.1, Kotoko Proper, North
More information.
Matal [mfh] 18,000 (1982 SIL). Far North Province, Mayo-Sava Division, Mora Subdivision,
southwest of Mora, to the south, east edge of Mandara Mountains. Alternate names:
Balda, Mouktele, Muktele, Muktile. Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-Mandara,
A, A.5
More information.
Mazagway [dkx] 17,000 (1997). North Province, Mayo-Louti Division, northwest of Guider,
Mazagway: Guider, Baila, Boula Ibbi, Tam Djidde; Far North Province, southwest
corner of Diamare Division, Ndoukoula District, Kpala: Dagaï; Mayo-Tsanaga Division,
Mokolo Department, Hina District, Zouvoul, Mayo-Ladde. Alternate names:
Mazagway-Hidi. Dialects: Mazagway (Musgoi, Musgoy, Daba-Mousgoy), Kpala (Kola,
Daba-Kola). Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-Mandara, A, A.7
More information.
Mbedam [xmd] 6,000 (2001 SIL). Far North Province, Mayo-Tsanaga Division, Mokolo
Subdivision, Northeast of Hina. Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-Mandara, A,
A.7
More information.
Mbembe, Tigon [nza] 36,000 in Cameroon (1982 SIL). Population total all countries: 56,000. North
West Province, Donga-Mantung Division, Ako Subdivision, north of Nkambe. Also in
Nigeria. Alternate names: Akonto, Tigon, Tigong, Tigum, Tigun, Tikun. Dialects:
Ashuku (Kitsipki), Nama (Dama, Namu), Nzare (Ndzale, Nsare, Izale, Izare, Njari),
Kporo, Eneeme. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-
Congo, Jukunoid, Central, Jukun-Mbembe-Wurbo, Mbembe
More information.
Mbo [mbo] 45,000 (1995 Ewane). Mbo plain, Littoral Province, Moungo Division,
Nkongsamba and Melong subdivisions; West Province, Menoua Division, Santchou
Subdivision and Upper Nkam Division, Kekem Subdivision. Alternate names: Mboo,
Sambo. Dialects: Melong (Eho Mbo), Bareko (Ehow Mba, Minahe), Kekem
(Nlembuu), Santchou (Nla Mboo). Related to Akoose [bss], Bassossi [bsi].
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, A, Lundu-Balong (A.10), Ngoe
More information.
Mbo’ [mtk] 1,490 (2000). North West Province, Donga-Mantung Division, Nwa Subdivision,
Mbo canton. Alternate names: Mbaw, Mbe’, Mbo. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Wide Grassfields,
Narrow Grassfields, Mbam-Nkam, Nkambe
More information.
Mbonga [xmb] 1,490 (2000). East Province, Lom-and-Djerem Division, near Betare-Oya.
Alternate names: Mboa. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo,
Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Jarawan, Cameroon
More information.
Mbu’ [muc] 1,000 (2001 SIL). North West Province, Menchum Division, Wum Subdivision,
northeast of Wum, Mbu’ village. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-
Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Beboid, Western
More information.
Mbuko [mqb] 13,000 (2002 SIL). Far North Province, Diamare Division, Meri Subdivision east
of Meri, Mbuko massif and neighboring Mayo-Raneo plain. Alternate names:
Mbokou, Mboku, Mbuku. Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-Mandara, A, A.5
More information.
Mbule [mlb] 100 (2007), decreasing. No monolinguals. Center Province, Mbam Division,
south Bokito Subdivision, Mbola village. Alternate names: Dumbule, Mbola. Dialects:
Not intelligible with other Yambassa languages. 78% lexical similarity with Baca [baf];
77% with Yangben [yav]; 72% with Elip [ekm] and Mmaala [nmu]. 62% with Baca;
56% with Yangbe (1982 T. Scruggs); 51% with Elip and Mmaala (Boone, Bradley and
Grant 1999). Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-
Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Mbam, Yambasa (A.60)
More information.
Mbum [mdd] 38,600 in Cameroon (1982 SIL). Population total all countries: 51,260. West
Mbum, isolated in Adamawa Province, Vina and Djerem divisions, south and
southwest of Ngaoundere; North Province, Faro Division, Ngaoundere area to border
of Faro Reserve; East Province, Lom-and-Djerem Division, Belabo Subdivision, Gbete.
Also in Central African Republic, United States. Alternate names: Buna, Mboum,
Mboumtiba, Wuna. Dialects: Mboum (West Mbum, Bum), Gbete (Kepere, Kpere,
Pere, Ripere, Byrre, Pono, Vana). Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-
Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Adamawa, Mbum-Day, Mbum, Southern
More information.
Medumba [byv] 210,000 (1991 UBS). West Province, Nde Division, Tonga Bangangte
subdivisions east of Bangangte. Alternate names: Bagangte, Bamileke-Medumba,
Bangangte. Dialects: Batongtou. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-
Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Wide Grassfields, Narrow Grassfields,
Mbam-Nkam, Nun
More information.
Mefele [mfj] 11,000 (2002 SIL). Far North Province, Mayo-Tsanaga Division, Mokolo
 Subdivision, south and east of Mokolo. 6 villages. Alternate names: Boulahay, Bula,
Bulahai. Dialects: Mefele, Serak (Sirak), Muhura (Mouhour), Shugule (Chougoule).
Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-Mandara, A, A.5
More information.
Mendankwe-Nkwen [mfd] 23,100 (2001 SIL). North West Province, Mezam Division, Bamenda Central
Subdivision, north and east of Bamenda, either side of Ring Road, and mountainous
circle of Menda Nkwe. Alternate names: Mandankwe, Mendankwe. Dialects: Nkwen
(Bafreng), Mendankwe (Munda, Bamenda). The Mendankwe dialect has 74%
intelligibility of the Nkwen dialect; Nkwen 79% intelligibility of Mendankwe. Socially
very distinct groups. Related to Ngemba [nge], Bafut [bfd], Pinyin [pny], Awing [azo],
Bambili-Bambui [baw]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo,
Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Wide Grassfields, Narrow Grassfields, Mbam-
Nkam, Ngemba
More information.
Mengaka [xmg] 20,000 (1993 SIL). West Province, Bamboutos Division, South Galim
Subdivision, Bagam, Galim, and Bamendjing. Alternate names: Bamileke-Mengaka,
Benzing, Ghap, Megaka. Dialects: Bagam, Bamendjing (Bamendjin). Lexical similarity:
91% among villages, but no dialect differences reported. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Wide Grassfields,
Narrow Grassfields, Mbam-Nkam, Bamileke
More information.
Mengisa [mct] 20,000 (1979 SIL). Center Province, Lekie Division, Sa’a Subdivision, Sanaga
River bend area between the River and Sa’a. Alternate names: Mangisa, Mengisa-
Njowe. Dialects: May be intelligible with Ewondo [ewo]. The Mangisa people speak 2
languages: the Mengisa Njowi dialect, spoken daily, and Leti [leo], a secret language
of tradition. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, A, Yaunde-Fang (A.70)
More information.
Menka [mea] 5,200 (2000 SIL). North West Province, Momo Division, Widikum-Menka
Subdivision, west of Mbwengi, northwest of Batibo. 10 villages. Alternate names:
Mamwoh, Wando Bando. Dialects: Related to Atong [ato], Manta [myg].
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Wide Grassfields, Narrow Grassfields, Momo
More information.
Merey [meq] 10,000 (1982 SIL). Far North Province, Diamare Division, Meri Massif, west of
Meri. Alternate names: Meri, Mere, Mofu de Méri. Classification: Afro-Asiatic,
Chadic, Biu-Mandara, A, A.5
More information.
Mesaka [iyo] 14,000 (1982 SIL). South West Province, Manyu Division, on Nigeria border
northeast of Akwaya, isolated. Alternate names: Banagere, Iyon, Messaga, Messaga-
Ekol, Messaka, Ugare. Dialects: Batomo (Babasi). The Batomo dialect may be a
separate language, or may be the same as Motomo (Oliti, Matchi), a dialect of Iceve-
Maci [bec]. Lexical similarity: 70% with Tiv [tiv]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-
Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Tivoid
More information.
Meta’ [mgo] 87,000 (1982 SIL). North West Province, Momo Division, east and southeast
Mbengwi and east Batibo subdivisions; Bamenda Subdivision, Bafuchu and Nja
village areas. Alternate names: Bameta, Batibo, Chubo, Menemo-Mogamo, Metta,
Mitaa, Moghamo-Menemo, Muta, Widikum-Tadkon. Dialects: Menemo (Metta,
Meta’, Uta’, Bameta), Moghamo (Muywi, Iyirikum, Widekum, Tiwirkum, Batibo, Besi,
Kugwe). Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Wide Grassfields, Narrow Grassfields, Momo
More information.
Mfumte [nfu] 24,700 (1982 SIL). North West Province, Donga-Mantung Division, Nwa
Subdivision, Mfumte canton north of Nwa and east of Nkambe. 16 villages. Alternate
names: Nfumte. Dialects: Lus, Kom, Mballa, Bang, Koffa (Kofa), Jui, Mbat, Manang,
 Mbibji, Mbah. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-
Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Wide Grassfields, Narrow Grassfields, Mbam-Nkam,
Nkambe
More information.
Mina [hna] 11,000 (2000). Far North Province, Mayo-Tsanaga Division, Hina Subdivision,
south of Mokolo. 20 villages. Alternate names: Besleri, Hina. Dialects: Besleri,
Jingjing (Dzumdzum), Gamdugun. Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-Mandara,
A, A.7
More information.
Mmaala [mmu] 5,300 (1982 SIL). Center Province, Mbam Division, Mmala canton, in and
south of Bokito. Alternate names: Benyi, Central Yambassa, Mmala. Dialects: Related
to Elip [ekm] and Yangben [yav]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-
Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Mbam, Yambasa (A.60)
More information.
Mmen [bfm] 35,000 (2001 SIL). 1,000 Fungom (1994 SIL). North West Province, Menchum
Division, Wum Subdivision, along Fundong Road northwest of Fundong. Alternate
names: Bafmen, Bafmeng, Bafoumeng, Bafumen, Mme. Dialects: Fungom (Northern
Fungom, We), Cha’, Nyos. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo,
Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Wide Grassfields, Narrow Grassfields, Ring, Center

More information.
Mofu, North [mfk] 27,500 (1982 SIL). Far North Province, Diamare Division, massifs south of Meri.
Alternate names: Douvangar, Mofu-Douvangar, Mofu-Nord. Dialects: Douroun
(Mofu de Douroum, Durum), Wazan (Wazang). Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Chadic,
Biu-Mandara, A, A.5
More information.
Mofu-Gudur [mif] 60,000 (1998 SIL). Far North Province, Mayo-Tsanaga Division into Diamare
Division, Mokolo Subdivision, massifs south of Tsanaga River to Mayo-Louti River.
Alternate names: Mofou, Mofou de Goudour, Mofu South, Mofu-Sud. Dialects:
Mokong, Gudur, Zidim, Dimeo, Massagal (Massakal), Njeleng. Classification: Afro-
Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-Mandara, A, A.5
More information.
Mokpwe [bri] 32,200 (1982 SIL). South West Province, Fako Division, Muyuka, Tiko, Buea, and
Limbe subdivisions. Alternate names: Bakpwe, Bakwedi, Bakwele, Bakweri, Bekwiri,
Kwedi, Kweli, Kwili, Kwiri, Mokpe, Ujuwa, Vakweli, Vambeng. Classification: Niger-
Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Northwest, A, Duala (A.20)
More information.
Moloko [mlw] 8,500 (1992 SIL). Far North Province, Mayo-Sava Division, Tokombere
Subdivision, Makalingay Canton, Melokwo Mountain and plains around its base.
Alternate names: Melokwo, Mokyo, Molko, Molkoa, Molkwo, Molokwo. Dialects:
Surrounded by 4 related languages (including Muyang [muy], Giziga North [gis], and
the Mikiri dialect of Dugwor [dme]) plus one other. Classification: Afro-Asiatic,
Chadic, Biu-Mandara, A, A.5
More information.
Mom Jango [ver] 6,520 in Cameroon (2000). North Province, Faro Division, Beka Subdivision,
north of Tchamba on Nigeria border. Alternate names: Kobo, Vere, Verre, Were.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi,
Adamawa, Leko-Nimbari, Duru, Voko-Dowayo, Vere-Dowayo, Vere-Gimme, Vere
More information.
Mono [mru] 300 (2001 SIL). North Province, Mayo-Rey Division, north of Rey-Bouba,
Kongrong area along Mayo-Godi River. Alternate names: Mon-Non. Dialects: Related
to Dama [dmm]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North,
Adamawa-Ubangi, Adamawa, Mbum-Day, Mbum, Northern, Dama-Galke
More information.
Mpade [mpi] 16,000 in Cameroon (Tourneux 2004). 16,000 all Mpade (Tourneux 2004).
 Large majority in Cameroon. Far North Province, Logone-and-Chari Division, south of
Lake Chad, Makari area. Also in Chad, Nigeria. Alternate names: Makari, Makary.
Dialects: Shewe (Mani), Mpade (Makari), Bodo, Woulki, Digam. Related to Afade
[aal], Maslam [msv], Malgbe [mxf], Mser [kqx], Lagwan [kot]. Classification: Afro-
Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-Mandara, B, B.1, Kotoko Proper, North
More information.
Mpiemo [mcx] 5,000 in Cameroon (1991 SIL). East Province, Boumba-and-Ngoko Division,
Gari-Gombo Subdivision, along Gribi to Yokadouma road. Alternate names: Bimu,
Mbimou, Mbimu, Mpo, Mpyemo. Dialects: Jasua (Jasoa), Bidjuki (Bidjouki).
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, A, Makaa-Njem (A.80)
More information.
Mpongmpong [mgg] 45,000 (1991 SIL). East Province. Menzime and Bangantu are in Kadey Division,
Mbang Subdivision, south of Batouri; others in Boumba-and-Ngoko Division, south
and west of Yokadouma. Alternate names: Bombo, Mbombo, Mpompo, Mpopo,
Pongpong. Dialects: Mbobyeng (Pobyeng), Menzime (Medzime, Mezime,
Mendzime), Bageto (Baagato, Bangantu, Northern Bangantu), Kunabembe
(Konabembe, Nkumabem, Kunabeeb, Konabem), Mpomam (Boman, Mboman).
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, A, Makaa-Njem (A.80)
More information.
Mser [kqx] 500 in Cameroon (Tourneux 2004). 500 all Mser (Tourneux 2004). Far North
Province, Logone-and-Chari Division, Kousseri Subdivision. Also in Chad. Alternate
names: Kotoko-Kuseri, Kouseri, Kousseri, Kuseri. Dialects: Shewe (Mani), Mpade
(Makari), Bodo, Woulki, Digam. Comprehension of Lagwan [kot] is marginal. Related
to Lagwan, Afade [aal], Malgbe [mxf], Maslam [msv], Mpade [mpi]. Classification:
Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-Mandara, B, B.1, Kotoko Proper, South
More information.
Mundabli [boe] 1,000 (2001 SIL). North West Province, Menchum Division, Wum Subdivision,
northeast of Wum, Mundabli, Bu, and Mufu villages. Alternate names: Bu.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Beboid, Western
More information.
Mundang [mua] 44,700 in Cameroon (1982 SIL). Far North Province, Kaele Division, Kaele
Subdivision, near Chad border north and west of Kaele; North Province, Benoue
Division, south of Mayo-Kebi near Chad border. Alternate names: Kaele, Marhay,
Moundan, Moundang, Musemban, Nda. Dialects: Kiziere, Imbana (Bana, Mbana,
Imbara), Zasing (Yassing, Djasing, Yasing, Jasing, Zazing), Gelama. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Adamawa,
Mbum-Day, Mbum, Northern, Tupuri-Mambai
More information.
Mundani [mnf] 34,000 (1987 SIL). South West Province, Manyu Division, Mamfe and north
Fontem subdivisions, south of Batibo. Dialects: Bamumbo (Bamumbu), Bechati,
Besali, Banti, Folepi, Iguambo (Igumbo), Bangang, Nko (Nkong). Classification: Niger-
Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Wide
Grassfields, Narrow Grassfields, Momo
More information.
Mungaka [mhk] 50,100 (1982 SIL). North West Province, Mezam Division, Bali Subdivision;
West Province, Bamboutos Division, southeast Galim Subdivision; Mifi Division, north
Bafoussam Subdivision. Alternate names: Bali, Li, Munga’ka, Nga’ka, Ngaaka.
Dialects: Bali Nyonga (Bali), Ti (Bati), Nde (Bandeng). Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Wide Grassfields,
Narrow Grassfields, Mbam-Nkam, Nun
More information.
Musey [mse] 20,000 in Cameroon. Far North Province, Mayo-Danay Division, east of Guere
on Chad border. Alternate names: Bananna, Bananna Ho, Ho, Mosi, Moussei,
 Moussey, Musaya, Musei, Museyna, Musiina, Musoi, Mussoi, Mussoy. Dialects: Pe.
Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Masa
More information.
Musgu [mug] 61,500 in Cameroon (1982 SIL). Population total all countries: 85,900. Far
North Province, Mayo-Danay Division, Maga Subdivision. Also in Chad. Alternate
names: Mousgou, Mousgoum, Mousgoun, Munjuk, Musgum, Musuk, Muzuk.
Dialects: Mpus (Pus, Pouss, Mousgoum de Pouss), Beege (Jafga), Vulum (Vlum,
Mulwi), Ngilemong, Luggoy, Maniling (Mani-Iling), Muzuk (Mousgoum de Guirvidig).
Vulum dialect is mainly in Chad. Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-Mandara, B,
B.2
More information.
Muyang [muy] 30,000. Far North Province, Mayo-Sava Division, northeast of Tokombere,
Muyang, Mougouba, Gouadagouada, and Palbarar massifs. Alternate names:
Mouyenge, Mouyengue, Muyenge, Myau, Myenge. Classification: Afro-Asiatic,
Chadic, Biu-Mandara, A, A.5
More information.
Nagumi [ngv] Extinct. North Province, Benoue Division, Garoua Subdivision between Benoue
and Faro rivers and Poli Mountains. Alternate names: Bama, Mbama. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern,
Jarawan, Cameroon
More information.
Naki [mff] 3,000 (Breton 1993). 300 in Nse chiefdom. North West Province, Menchum
Division, Furu-Awa Subdivision, Nse chiefdom, Naki, Mekaf, Bukpang II, and Lebo
villages. Alternate names: Bunaki, Mekaf, Munkaf, Nkap. Dialects: Member of the
Eastern Beboid subgroup. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo,
Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Beboid, Eastern
More information.
Ncane [ncr] 15,500 (2002 SIL). North West Province, Donga-Mantung Division, Misaje
Subdivision, Nkanchi, Nfume, Chunge, Bem, Kibbo and Mungong villages; Menchum
Division, Bum Subdivision, Mungong. Alternate names: Cane, Nchane, Nchaney,
Nchanti, Ntshanti. Dialects: Ncane, Mungong (Mungom). Member of the Eastern
Beboid subgroup. Lexical similarity: 84% with Nsari [asj], 88% with Noone [nhu].
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Beboid, Eastern
More information.
Ndai [gke] 5. North Province, Mayo-Rey Division, Tchollire. Alternate names: Galke,
Pormi. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-
Ubangi, Adamawa, Mbum-Day, Mbum, Northern, Dama-Galke Nearly extinct.
More information.
Ndaktup [ncp] 2,980 (2000). North West Province, Donga-Mantung Division, northeast of
Nkambe. Dialects: Ncha, Bitui (Bitwi). Possibly mutually inherently intelligible with, or
bilingual in, other Mfumte languages. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Wide Grassfields, Narrow Grassfields,
Mbam-Nkam, Nkambe
More information.
Nda’nda’ [nnz] 10,000 (1990 SIL). West Province, straddling Upper Nkam (east of Bana), Nde
(north and west of Bangante), and Mifi (south of Bangou) divisions. Alternate names:
Bamileke-Nda’nda’. Dialects: Undimeha (East Nda’nda’), Ungameha (West Nda’nda’,
South Nda’nda’). Batoufam is a subdialect of East Nda’nda’. Classification: Niger-
Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Wide
Grassfields, Narrow Grassfields, Mbam-Nkam, Bamileke
More information.
Ndemli [nml] 5,950 (2000). Littoral Province, Nkam Division, between Yabassi, Yingui, and
Nkondjok. Alternate names: Bandem, Bayong, Ndemba. Dialects: Related to Tikar
[tik]. The Bandobo dialect of Tikar is very similar to Ndemli. Classification: Niger-
Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Ndemli
 More information.
Ndoola [ndr] 2,120 in Cameroon (2000). Adamawa Province, Faro-and-Deo Division, south
Mayo-Baleo Subdivision, upper Mayo-Deo River, Dodeo village near Nigeria border;
North West Province, Donga-Mantung Division, north of Nkambe. Alternate names:
Ndoro, Njoyame, Nundoro. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo,
Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Northern, Mambiloid, Ndoro
More information.
Ngamambo [nbv] 8,000 (2002 SIL). North West Province, Momo Division, east and southeast
Mbengwi and east Batibo subdivisions; Mezam Division, Santa Subdivision, Bafuchu
and Nja village areas. Alternate names: Bafuchu, Banja, Mbu, Mungyen, Nga,
Ngembo. Dialects: Lexical similarity: 88% with Meta’ [mgo]. Classification: Niger-
Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Wide
Grassfields, Narrow Grassfields, Momo
More information.
Ngambay [sba] North Province, along the route to Garoua, Mayo-Rey Division, Rey-Bouba
Subdivision, near the Chad border east of Tchollire; Benoue Division, in Garoua.
Alternate names: Gamb-Lai, Gamba, Gambai, Gambaye, Ngambai, Sara, Sara
Ngambai. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, West, Bongo-Bagirmi, Sara-
Bagirmi, Sara, Sara Proper
More information.
Ngemba [nge] 18,800 (2002 SIL). North West Province, Mezam Division, Tuba and west
Bamenda subdivisions. Alternate names: Megimba, Mogimba, Ngomba, Nguemba.
Dialects: Bagangu (Akum), Njong (Banjong), Mbutu (Bambutu, Alamatu, Mbotu),
Songwa (Nsongwa, Bangwa, Ngwa), Mankon (Bida), Shomba (Bamechom, Almatson),
Mangkunge (Ngemba, Bandeng, Bande, Bande’, Nkune, Mukohn), Mbrerewi
(Mundum 1, Bamundum 1), Anyang (Mundum 2, Bamundum 2), Alatening
(Alatining). Related to Bafut [bfd], Mendankwe-Nkwen [mfd], Pinyin [pny], Awing
[azo]. Distinct from Ngiemboon [nnh] (Nguemba). Lexical similarity: 87% between
the Mbrerewi and Anyang dialects, 78% between Mbrerewi and Bafut, 85% between
Mbrerewi and the Mankon dialect, 74% between Bafut and Mankon. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Wide
Grassfields, Narrow Grassfields, Mbam-Nkam, Ngemba
More information.
Ngie [ngj] 37,000 (2001 SIL). North West Province, Momo Division, west Mbengwi
Subdivision, Andek area. Alternate names: Angie, Baminge, Baninge, Mingi, Ngi, Ugie,
Ungie. Dialects: Mengum. Lexical similarity: 56% between Ngie [ngj] and the
Mengum dialect, which may be a separate language. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Wide Grassfields,
Narrow Grassfields, Momo
More information.
Ngiemboon [nnh] 250,000 (2000), increasing. 80,000 monolinguals. Many young Ngiemboon
moving to urban areas because little room left in rural home area. West Province,
Bamboutos Division, Batcham Subdivision and west Mbouda Subdivision in Balatchi;
Menoua Division, north of Penka-Michel. Alternate names: Bamileke-Ngiemboon,
Bamileke-Ngyemboon, Nguemba, Ngyemboon. Dialects: Batcham, Balessing,
Bangang, Bamougong, Balatchi, Batang. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Wide Grassfields, Narrow Grassfields,
Mbam-Nkam, Bamileke
More information.
Ngomba [jgo] 63,000 (1999 SIL). West Province, Bamboutos Division, south Mbouda
Subdivision, southeast of Mbouda. 5 villages, each a separate dialect. Alternate
names: Bamileke-Ngomba, Nda’a, Ndaa. Dialects: Bamendjinda, Bamenkumbo,
Bamesso, Babete (Bamete), Bamendjo. Dialect speakers appear to understand each
other well. Bamendjinda, Bamesso, and Bamenkumbo are most similar.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Wide Grassfields, Narrow Grassfields, Mbam-Nkam, Bamileke
 More information.
Ngombale [nla] 45,000 (1993 SIL). West Province, Bamboutos Division, north Mbouda
Subdivision, northwest of Mbouda. Alternate names: Bamileke-Ngombale. Dialects:
Babadjou (Basso, Nchobela), Bamessingue (Bassing). Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Wide Grassfields,
Narrow Grassfields, Mbam-Nkam, Bamileke
More information.
Ngong [nnx] 2 (Dieu and Renaud 1983). North Province, Benoue Division, south of Garoua
on road to Ngaoundere, Ngong village. Alternate names: Gong, Nagumi, Puuri.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Jarawan, Cameroon Nearly extinct.
More information.
Ngoshie [nsh] 9,200 (2001 SIL). North West Province, Momo Division, east Njikwa Subdivision.
Alternate names: Ngishe, Oshie. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-
Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Wide Grassfields, Narrow Grassfields,
Momo
More information.
Ngwe [nwe] 73,200 (2001 SIL). South West Province, Lebialem Division. Alternate names:
Bamileke-Ngwe, Fomopea, Fontem, Nwe, Nweh. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Wide Grassfields,
Narrow Grassfields, Mbam-Nkam, Bamileke
More information.
Ngwo [ngn] 22,000 (2004 SIL). North West Province, Momo Division, Njikwa Subdivision.
Alternate names: Ngwaw. Dialects: Ngwo (Nguni, Ngwaw, Miguhni, Ngunu), Konda,
Basa (Bassa), Ikweri (Ekperi), Banya, Bako, Okorobi, Zang. Classification: Niger-
Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Wide
Grassfields, Narrow Grassfields, Momo
More information.
Nimbari [nmr] No known speakers. Ethnic population: 130. North Province, Benoue Division,
Basheo Subdivision, Gorimbari village; Mayo-Louti Division, Guider Subdivision,
Padjara-Djabi and Badjire villages. Alternate names: Bari, Niamniam, Nimbari-Kebi,
Nyam-Nyam du Mayo-Kebi, Nyamnyam. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Adamawa, Leko-Nimbari, Nimbari
More information.
Njen [njj] 1,800 (2002 SIL). North West Province, Momo Division, southeast of Batibo, Njen
village. Alternate names: Nyen, Nzin. Dialects: Lexical similarity: 47% with Meta
[mgo]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Wide Grassfields, Narrow Grassfields, Momo
More information.
Njyem [njy] 3,500 in Cameroon. 85% monolingual. Population total all countries: 7,000. East
Province, Upper Nyong Division, Ngoila Subdivision. Also in Congo. Alternate names:
Djem, Dzem, Ndjem, Ndjeme, Ndzem, Ngyeme, Njem, Nyem. Classification: Niger-
Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Northwest, A, Makaa-Njem (A.80)
More information.
Nkongho [nkc] 2,230 (2000). South West Province, Kupe-Muanenguba Division, Nguti
Subdivision. Alternate names: Kinkwa, Lekongo, Upper Mbo. Classification: Niger-
Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow
Bantu, Northwest, A, Lundu-Balong (A.10)
More information.
Nomaande [lem] 6,000 (1982 SIL). Center Province, Mbam Division, west and north Bokito
Subdivision, southwest of Bafia. Alternate names: Lemande, Mande, Mandi,
Noomaante, Numand, Pimenc. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-
Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Mbam, West (A.40)
More information.
Noone [nhu] 25,000 (2001 SIL). North West Province, Bui Division, northwest Kumbo
Subdivision. Alternate names: Noni, Nooni. Dialects: Member of the Eastern Beboid
subgroup. Lexical similarity: 88% with Ncane [ncr]. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Beboid, Eastern
More information.
Nubaca [baf] 4,500 (2007). No monolinguals. Ethnic population: 5,000. Center Province,
Mbam Division, Bokito Subdivision, Yangben Canton, south of Yangben, village of
Bongo, 8 quarters: Puéméné, Galala, Bupili, Buyatolo, Gafogo, Buaya, Ganok, Nikoss.
Alternate names: Baca, Bango, Bongo, Central Yambassa, Nu Baca. Dialects: Centre
Nubaca, Kélendé, Nibiég. No significant dialect differences. Not intelligible with other
Yambassa language varieties. Related to Elip [ekm], Dimli [diq], Mmaala [mmu].
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Mbam, Yambasa (A.60)
More information.
Nugunu [yas] 35,000 (1987 SIL). Center Province, Mbam Division, Ombessa and Bokito
subdivisions, Ombessa area southwest. Alternate names: Behie, Beke, Gounou,
Gunu, Nu Gunu, Ombessa, Yambasa, Yambassa. Dialects: Northern Gunu, Southern
Gunu. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Mbam, Yambasa (A.60)
More information.
Nyong [muo] 30,000 in Cameroon (2008). North West Province, Ngo-Ketunjia Division,
Balikumbat Subdivision, near Ndop Plain in Balikumbat, Baligansin, and Baligashu
villages; Mezam Division, Baligham. Also in Nigeria. Alternate names: Daganonga,
Daganyonga, Mubako, Mumbake, Ndagam, Nyongnepa, Samba Bali. Dialects: They
consider themselves the same ethnically as Samba Leko [ndi], but inherent
intelligibility is low. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North,
Adamawa-Ubangi, Adamawa, Leko-Nimbari, Leko
More information.
Nzakambay [nzy] 13,000 in Cameroon (2000). North Province, Mayo-Rey Division, Touboro
Subdivision, Touboro area. Alternate names: Mbay, Nzak Mbai, Nzak Mbay,
Nzakmbay. Dialects: Gonge (Ngonge). Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Adamawa, Mbum-Day, Mbum, Eastern
Mbum, Karang
More information.
Nzanyi [nja] 9,000 in Cameroon. North Province, Mayo-Louti Division, Mayo-Oulo
Subdivision, Doumo region, west of Dourbeye near Nigeria border. Alternate names:
Jeng, Kobochi, Kobotshi, Mzangyim, Njai, Njanyi, Njegn, Njei, Njeng, Njeny, Nzangi,
Zani, Zany. Dialects: Holma. Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-Mandara, A, A.8

More information.
Oblo [obl] Benoue Division, Pitoa Subdivision, Gobtikéré, Ouro Bé, and Ouro Badjouma
areas. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-
Ubangi, Adamawa, Unclassified Nearly extinct.
More information.
Oku [oku] 40,000 (1991 SIL). North West Province, Bui Division, west Jakiri Subdivision,
Mt. Oku and Lake Oku area. Alternate names: Bvukoo, Ebkuo, Ekpwo, Kuo, Ukfwo,
Uku. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Wide Grassfields, Narrow Grassfields, Ring, Center
More information.
Oroko [bdu] 106,000 (2000). South West Province, Meme Division, Kumba Subdivision,
west, north, and south of Kumba; Ndian Division, east Ekondo-Titi Subdivision.
Alternate names: Bakundu-Balue, Oroko-East, Oroko-West. Dialects: Lokundu
(Bakundu, Kundu, Lakundu, Bekunde, Bawo, Nkundu), Lolue (Balue, Barue, Babue,
Western Kundu, Lue), Mbonge, Ekombe (Bekombo, Ekumbe), Londo (Balondo Ba
Nanga, Balondo Ba Diko), Longolo (Ngolo), Bima, Lotanga (Batanga), Lokoko
(Bakoko). The Batanga dialect is distinct from Batanga [bnm] (Banoho) of Bantu A.30,
 and the Batanga dialect of Caka [ckx]; the Bakoko dialect is distinct from Bakoko
[bkh] of Bantu A.40. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo,
Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, A, Lundu-Balong (A.10),
Oroko
More information.
Osatu [ost] 400 (2002 SIL). South West Province, Manyu Division, Akwaya Subdivision,
southeast of Asumbo. Alternate names: Ihatum, Ossatu. Dialects: Lexical similarity:
60% with Balo [bqo], 40% with Ipulo [ass] and Caka [ckx], 35% with Mesaka [iyo] and
Esimbi [ags]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Tivoid
More information.
Pam [pmn] 30 (2003 SIL). North Province, Mayo-Rey Division, near Tchollire. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Adamawa,
Mbum-Day, Mbum, Unclassified Nearly extinct.
More information.
Pana [pnz] 2,980 in Cameroon (2000). North Province, Mayo-Rey Division, Touboro
Subdivision. Some urban areas. Alternate names: Pani. Dialects: Man. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Adamawa,
Mbum-Day, Mbum, Eastern Mbum, Karang
More information.
Parkwa [pbi] 30,000 (1993 SIL). Far North Province, Mayo-Sava Division, Mora Subdivision,
west and southwest of Mora. Alternate names: Gwadi Parekwa, Kudala, Padogo,
Padokwa, Paduko, Parekwa, Pawdawkwa, Podogo, Podoko, Podokwo. Classification:
Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-Mandara, A, A.4, Mandara Proper, Podoko
More information.
Peere [pfe] 15,000 in Cameroon (1993). Northwestern Tignere Subdivision between Tignere
and Nigeria border, Faro and Deo Division; northeast of Banyo, Mayo-Banyo Division,
Adamawa Province. Also in Nigeria. Alternate names: Kotofo, Kotopo, Kotpojo,
Koutin, Koutine, Kutin, Kutine, Kutinn, Patapori, Peer, Pere, Potopo, Potopore.
Dialects: Peer Muure, Zongbi (Djonbi), Dan Muure (Potopo, Kotopo, Kpotopo,
Kotofo). Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-
Ubangi, Adamawa, Leko-Nimbari, Duru, Voko-Dowayo, Kutin
More information.
Pévé [lme] 5,720 in Cameroon (2000). North Province, Mayo-Rey Division, northeast of
Tchollire, Bouba-Ndjida Park area. Alternate names: Ka’do, Lamé. Classification:
Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Masa
More information.
Pidgin, Cameroon [wes] Primarily South West and North West provinces; widespread elsewhere.
Alternate names: Cameroon Creole English, Wes Cos. Dialects: Similar to Krio [kri] of
Sierra Leone and Pidgin English of various West African countries; probably an
offshoot of 19th century Krio. Also similar to Sranan [srn] (I. Hancock). There are
dialect variations. Classification: Creole, English based, Atlantic, Krio
More information.
Pinyin [pny] 24,600 (2001 SIL). North West Province, Mezam Division, southwest Bamenda
Subdivision, southwest of Bamenda. Alternate names: Bapinyi, Pelimpo. Dialects:
Related to Awing [aal], Ngemba [nge], Bafut [bfd], Mendankwe-Nkwen [mfd].
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Wide Grassfields, Narrow Grassfields, Mbam-Nkam, Ngemba
More information.
Pol [pmm] 38,700 in Cameroon (2000). Population total all countries: 44,130. East
Province, Upper Nyong Division, Dimako Subdivision, east of Doume; Lom and
Djerem Division, east of Belabo. Also in Congo. Alternate names: Congo Pol, Pomo,
Pori, Pul. Dialects: Azom (Pori Asom, Asom), Bobili, Dondi, Mambaya, Pori Kinda
(Kinda). Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, A, Kako (A.90)
More information.
Psikye [kvj] 40,500 in Cameroon (1982 SIL). Population total all countries: 52,500. Far North
Province, Mayo-Tsanaga Division, southwest Mokolo Subdivision. Also in Nigeria.
Alternate names: Kamsiki, Kapsiki, Ptsake. Dialects: Psikye (Kapsiki, Kamu), Zlenge.
Similar to Hya [hya], Kamwe [hig] of Nigeria. Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-
Mandara, A, A.3
More information.
Saari [asj] 7,000 (2001 SIL). North West Province, Donga-Mantung Division, Misaje
Subdivision, both sides of Ring Road between Misaje and Nkambe. 3 villages: Mbissa,
Kamine, and Akweto. Alternate names: Akweto, Nsari, Pesaa, Sali. Dialects: Member
of the Eastern Beboid subgroup. Lexical similarity: 84% with Ncane [ncr].
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Beboid, Eastern
More information.
Samba Leko [ndi] North Province, Faro Division, between Tchamba and Mayo-Louti River, west of
Poli; south Beka Subdivision along Nigeria border. Alternate names: Chamba Leeko,
Samba. Dialects: Samba Leko (Ndii, Lekon, Lego, Leko, Laeko, Suntai), Deenu (Koola),
Bangla, Samba de Wangai, Sampara. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Adamawa, Leko-Nimbari, Leko
More information.
Sharwa [swq] 5,100 (2000 SIL). Far North Province, Mayo-Tsanaga Division, South Bourrah
Subdivision; a few in North Province, Mayo-Louti Division. Alternate names: Sarwaye,
Sherwin, Tchevi. Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-Mandara, A, A.8
More information.
So [sox] 9,000 (1992 SIL). Center Province, Nyong-and-Mfoumou Division, Akonolinga
Subdivision, Melan and Emvane cantons; East Province, a few in Upper Nyong
Division. Alternate names: Fo, Shwo, Sso. Dialects: Melan So, Emvane So. Dialects
have vocabulary and pronunciation differences, but no reported problem with
mutual intelligibility. The Melan So dialect has been influenced by Beti [btb], Ewondo
[ewo], and Bulu [bum]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo,
Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, A, Makaa-Njem (A.80)
More information.
Suga [sgi] 10,000 (1985). Adamawa Province, Faro-and-Deo Division, Galim area
southwest of Tignere; Mayo-Banyo Division, north Banyo Subdivision, Sambolabbo
area. Alternate names: Galim, “Jemjem” , Nizaa, “Njemnjem” , “Nyamnyam” , Ssuga.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Northern, Mambiloid, Suga-Vute, Suga
More information.
Tibea [ngy] 1,400 (1992 SIL). Center Province, Mbam Division, extreme north Ngoro
Subdivision, northeast of Bafia. 3 villages. Alternate names: Djanti, Minjanti,
Ngayaba, Njanti, Nyabea, Zangnte. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, A, Bafia
(A.50)
More information.
Tikar [tik] 25,000 (1989 SIL). Center Province, Mbam Division, Ngambe-Tikar Subdivision,
scattered over northwest Yoko and northeast of Foumban; Adamawa Province,
Mayo-Banyo Division, Bankim Subdivision; West Province, Noun Division, Magba
Subdivision. Alternate names: Ndob, Ndome, Tikali, Tikar-East, Tikari, Tingkala.
Dialects: Twumwu (Tumu, Tikar de Bankim), Tige (Tikar de Ngambe), Nditam, Kong,
Mankim, Gambai, Bandobo. Bandobo may be a separate language. The Bankim call
their dialect Twumwu, the Ngambe call theirs Tige. Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Tikar
More information.
Tiv [tiv] Few in Cameroon. South West Province, Manyu Division, northeast of Akwaya
on Nigeria border, Njobo (Njawbaw) village. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-
Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Tivoid
More information.
To [toz] North Province, Mayo-Rey Division, Touboro Subdivision. Also in Central
African Republic. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North,
Adamawa-Ubangi, Adamawa, Mbum-Day, Mbum, Unclassified
More information.
Tsuvan [tsh] 2,300 (2000 SIL). Far North Province, Mayo-Tsanaga Division, southeast Bourrah
Subdivision, northeast of Dourbeye, Tchevi village, 5 quarters found in an area 10 km
in diameter; some in North Province, Mayo-Louti Division. Alternate names:
Matsuvan, Motsuvan, Tchede, Telaki, Teleki, Terki. Classification: Afro-Asiatic,
Chadic, Biu-Mandara, A, A.8
More information.
Tuki [bag] 26,000 (1982 SIL). Center Province, Mbam Division, along Sanaga River north of
Saa; north of Sanaga River between Ombessa and Ntui. Alternate names: Bacenga,
Baki, Batchenga, Betsinga, Betzinga, Ki, Oki, Osa Nanga, Sanaga. Dialects: Kombe
(Tukombe, Wakombe, Bakombe), Tocenga (Tiki, Bacenga), Tsinga (Chinga, Tutsingo,
Batsingo), Bundum, Tonjo (Bunju, Boudjou), Ngoro (Tu Ngoro, Uki, Aki), Mbere
(Tumbele, Mbele, Bambele, Mvele, Bamvele). Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-
Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Mbam, Sanaga (A.60)
More information.
Tunen [baz] 35,300 (1982 SIL). Center Province, Mbam Division, Ndikinimeki and Makenene
subdivisions; Littoral Province, Nkam Division, south to east Yingui Subdivision.
Alternate names: Banen, Banend, Nenni Nyo’o, Penin, Penyin. Dialects: Eling (Alinga,
Tuling), Itundu, Logananga, Ndogbang, Ndokbiakat, Ndoktuna, Ni Nyo’o (Nyo’on,
Nyokon, Fung), Mese (Paningesen, Ninguessen, Sese). Classification: Niger-Congo,
Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Mbam, West (A.60)
More information.
Tuotomb [ttf] 1,000 (1984). Center Province, Mbam Division, Bafia Subdivision, Ndikinemeki
area, Bonek village. Urban. Alternate names: Bonek, Ponek. Classification: Niger-
Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Mbam, West
(A.40)
More information.
Tupuri [tui] 125,000 in Cameroon. Population total all countries: 229,000. Far North
Province, Kaele Division, southeast Moulvouday plain east of Kaele; Mayo-Danay
Division, Kar-Hay Subdivision. Also in Chad. Alternate names: Dema, Honya, Mata,
Ndoore, Ndore, Tongoyna, Toubouri, Toupouri, Tuburi, Wina. Classification: Niger-
Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Adamawa, Mbum-
Day, Mbum, Northern, Tupuri-Mambai
More information.
Twendi [twn] 30 (2000 B. Connell). Ethnic population: 1,000 or fewer (1991 SIL). Adamawa
Province, Mayo-Banyo Division, north of Bankim, Sanga village. Classification: Niger-
Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Northern, Mambiloid,
Mambila-Konja, Konja Nearly extinct.
More information.
Usaghade [usk] 10,000 in Cameroon (1990 B. Connell). South West Province, Ndian Division,
Isangele Subdivision, near the coast. Also in Nigeria. Alternate names: Isangele,
Usakade, Usakedet. Dialects: Distinct from Efik [efi] (1998 B. Connell, Crozier and
Blench 1992). Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-
Congo, Cross River, Delta Cross, Lower Cross, Obolo, Usaghade
More information.
Vame [mlr] 8,500 (1992 SIL). Far North Province, Mayo-Sava Division, Mora and Tokombere
subdivisions, Southern Mora massif south of Mora. Alternate names: Maslava,
Pelasla. Dialects: Mayo-Plata (Pelasla, Plasla, Platla, Plata, Gwendele, Damlale),
Mberem (Mbreme, Maslava), Demwa (Dmwa, Doume), Hurza (Hurzo, Ourza, Ourzo,
Ouzza), Ndreme. Mayo-Plata is more similar to Wuzlam than the other dialects are.
Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-Mandara, A, A.5
More information.
Vemgo-Mabas [vem] 5,000 in Cameroon (Dieu and Renaud 1983). Far North Province, Mayo-
 Tsanaga Division, Mabas village on Nigeria border northwest of Mokolo. Dialects:
Vemgo, Mabas. Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-Mandara, A, A.4, Lamang
More information.
Vengo [bav] 27,000 (2008). North West Province, Ngo Ketunjia Division, north of Ndop on
Ndop Plain. Alternate names: Babungo, Nge, Ngo, Nguu, Ngwa, Pengo, Vengi,
Vengoo. Dialects: Similar to Wushi [bse], Kenswei-Nsei [ndb], Bamunka [bvm].
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Wide Grassfields, Narrow Grassfields, Ring, South
More information.
Vute [vut] 20,000 in Cameroon (1997 L. Lode). 300 in Banyo (1995 B. Connell). Population
total all countries: 21,000. Center Province, northeast Mbam Division; Upper Sanaga
Division, near Nanga-Eboko and Mbandjok; Adamawa Province, Mayo-Banyo and
Djerem divisions (near Tibati and Banyo); some in East Province, west Lom and
Djerem Division. Also in Nigeria. Alternate names: ’Abotee, ’Abwetee, Baboute,
Bamboute, Boute, Bubure, Bule, Bute, Foute, Luvure, Nbule, Pute, Voute, Voutere,
Woute, Wute. Dialects: Bute Bamnyo (Vute de Banyo), Vute Mbanjo (Vute de
Mbandjok), Nudoo (Vute de Yangba), Nujum (Vute de Linte), Nduvum (Vute de
Tibati), Nugane (Vute de Doume), Kumbere (Vute de Sangbe), Ngoro (Vute de
Ngorro). Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo,
Bantoid, Northern, Mambiloid, Suga-Vute, Vute
More information.
Wandala [mfi] 23,500 in Cameroon (1982 SIL). Population total all countries: 43,500. Far North
Province, Mayo-Sava Division, east of Mora, north and northwest in a semicircle, to
Nigeria border. Also in Nigeria. Alternate names: Mandara, Mandara Montagnard,
Ndara. Dialects: Kamburwama, Masfeima, Jampalam, Ziogba, Mazagwa, Gwanje,
Wandala (Mandara), Mura (Kirdi-Mora, Mora Brousse, Mora Massif, Duwe),
Gamargu (Gamergou, Gamergu, Malgo, Malgwa). A dialect subgroup. Classification:
Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-Mandara, A, A.4, Mandara Proper, Mandara
More information.
Wawa [www] 3,000 (1991 SIL). Adamawa Province, Mayo-Banyo Division, Bankim
Subdivision, west of Banyo, 13 villages. Dialects: Gandua. Classification: Niger-
Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Northern, Mambiloid,
Suga-Vute, Vute
More information.
Weh [weh] 6,900 (1994 SIL). North West Province, Menchum Division, Wum Central
Subdivision, Weh village. Dialects: Little dialect variation. Similar to Aghem [agq].
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Wide Grassfields, Narrow Grassfields, Ring, West
More information.
Wumboko [bqm] 4,000 (2000). South West Province, Fako Division, Buea Subdivision; Meme
Division, Kumba Subdivision. Alternate names: Bamboko, Bambuku, Bomboko,
Bumboko, Mboko, Womboko. Dialects: Probably intelligible with Mokpwe [bri], but
different enough from Duala [dua] to possibly need separate literature.
Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid,
Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, A, Duala (A.20)
More information.
Wushi [bse] 25,000 (2008). North West Province, Ngo Ketunjia Division, Babessi Subdivision,
east of Ndop. Alternate names: Babessi, Pesii, Sii, Vesi. Dialects: Similar to Vengo
[bav], Kenswei-Nsei [ndb], Bamunka [bvm]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-
Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Wide Grassfields, Narrow
Grassfields, Ring, South
More information.
Wuzlam [udl] 10,500 (1982 SIL). Far North Province, Mayo-Sava Division, Tokombere
Subdivision, Wuzlam Massif south of Mora. Alternate names: Mizlime, Ouldeme,
Udlam, Uldeme, Uzam, Uzlam. Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-Mandara, A,
A.5
 More information.
Yamba [yam] 40,800 in Cameroon (2000). North West Province, Donga-Mantung Division,
Central Nwa Subdivision. Seasonal immigrants in Nigeria, Mambila Plateau. Also in
Nigeria. Alternate names: Bebaroe, Boenga Ko, “Kaka” , Kakayamba, Mbem,
Mbubem, Muzok, Swe’nga. Dialects: Ntem, Mfe, Nkot, Ntong, Kwak. Classification:
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Wide
Grassfields, Narrow Grassfields, Mbam-Nkam, Nkambe
More information.
Yambeta [yat] 3,700 (1982 SIL). Center Province, Mbam Division, Bafia Subdivision northwest
of Bafia. Alternate names: Njambeta, Yambetta. Dialects: Nedek, Nigii (Nigi, Begi-
Nibum, Kibum). Related to Bati [btc], Mbule [mlb], Elip [ekm], Leti [leo], Mmaala
[mmu], Nubaca [baf], Nugunu [yas], Tuki [bag], Yangben [yav]. Classification: Niger-
Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Mbam, West
(A.40)
More information.
Yangben [yav] 2,300 (1994 SIL). Center Province, Mbam Division, Bokito Subdivision, Yangben
Canton south of Bokito. Alternate names: Central Yambassa, Kalong, Nuasue,
Nukalonge. Dialects: Similar to Elip [ekm] and Mmaala [mmu]. Classification: Niger-
Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Mbam,
Yambasa (A.60)
More information.
Yasa [yko] 1,490 in Cameroon (2000). Population total all countries: 2,400. South
Province, Ocean Division, Campo Subdivision, on the coast near Equatorial Guinea.
Also in Equatorial Guinea, Gabon. Alternate names: Bongwe, Lyaasa, Maasa, Yassa.
Dialects: A subgroup of dialects. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-
Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, A, Bube-Benga
(A.30), Yasa
More information.
Yemba [ybb] 300,000. West Province, Menoua Division, Dschang area. Alternate names:
Atsang-Bangwa, Bafou, Bamileke-Yemba, Bangwa, Dschang, Tchang. Dialects:
Yemba, Foreke Dschang (Dschang, Tchang). Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-
Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Wide Grassfields, Narrow
Grassfields, Mbam-Nkam, Bamileke
More information.
Yeni [yei] Extinct. Nyalang area north of Mayo Darle village. Classification: Unclassified
More information.
Yukuben [ybl] 950 in Cameroon (Breton 1986). North West Province, Menchum Division, west
of Furu-Awa, near Nigeria border. Alternate names: Ayikiben, Balaabe, Balaaben,
Boritsu, Gohum, Nyikobe, Nyikuben, Uuhum, Uuhum-Gigi. Classification: Niger-
Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Jukunoid, Yukuben-Kuteb
More information.
Zhoa [zhw] North-West Province, Menchum Division, Fungom Subdivision. 1 village.
Dialects: Most similar to Weh [weh]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo,
Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Wide Grassfields, Narrow Grassfields,
Ring, West
More information.
Zizilivakan [ziz] 2,800 in Cameroon (2002). Far North Province, Mayo-Tsanaga Division, Bourrah
Subdivision, near Nigeria border. Also in Nigeria. Alternate names: Àmzírív, Fali of
Jilbu, Ziliva, Ziziliveken. Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-Mandara, A, A.8
More information.
Zulgo-Gemzek [gnd] 26,000 (2002 SIL). Far North Province, Mayo-Sava Division, Tokombere
Subdivision, east edge of Mandara Mountains, north of Maroua. 16 villages.
Alternate names: Gemjek, Guemshek, Zulgo. Dialects: Gemzek (Gaduwa), Mineo
(Minew), Zulgo (Zoulgo, Zulgwa, Zelgwa). Slight dialect differences between villages.
Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Biu-Mandara, A, A.5
More information.
Zumaya [zuy] 25 (1987 SIL). Far North Province, Diamare Division, Maroua Subdivision, Ouro-
Lamorde. Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, Masa Nearly extinct.
More information.