South Sudan

The Republic of Sudan is the newest country in the world, with their independence from Sudan only made official on July 9, 2011. The new nation’s capital is located in Juba, the largest city in South Sudan. Juba is considered as one of the fastest-growing cities in the world due to oil exploration with China, Malaysia and India owning most of the stakes. It has attracted many Chinese who have started to come for work. The autonomous region of South Sudan was formed after the end of the first civil war in 1972, when peace reigned for almost 10 years. Another civil war broke out in 1983 which lasted for over 20 years. The Comprehensive Peace Agreement that was signed by the Government of Sudan and the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement was meant to stop the second civil war. Some of the agreements include the sharing of oil revenues, democratic governance and a 6-year autonomy after which a referendum will be held to decide if they want to be independent. Despite the oil exploration in South Sudan, it is currently one of the poorest nations in the world. It is also the considered to have the worst situation in terms of the health conditions of its population.

:: Background of South Sudan ::

France and Britain tried to gain control of the region in the 1800s, with Sahel and part of the Sahara to be under the French. However the plan of the French to build an irrigation dam on the Nile caused the British to panic. They thought that would mean that the water will no longer reach Cairo, which leads to India which is a territory of Britain and where they have a very high stake. They also thought that they had to take control of Egypt. So after the standoff the French withdrew and Britain was able to have control of the region and Sudan was created. North Sudan was ruled through the government officials that served under the Ottoman Empire while the southern region was ruled through the kings and leaders of the numerous tribes. But the development was not forthcoming for the southern part of Sudan. They were discriminated and basically left to fend for themselves. Rebellion started and escalated into a civil war from 1955 to 1972. It ended with a peace treaty that lasted until the next civil war broke out in 1983. This time the war lasted until 2005 with a peace treaty brokered by supporting countries. The war brought death to about 2.5 million South Sudanese, who mostly died from drought and starvation. In January 2011, a referendum was held. This was part of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement, which brought the second civil war to an end, with South Sudan gaining autonomy once again. There was a huge turnout and an overwhelming 98% of the voters were in favor of independence. South Sudan got won its independence on July 11, 2011 and became a member of the United Nations on July 14, 2011.

:: Geography of South Sudan ::

South Sudan has fertile plains and some mountainous areas and the majority of the land area is covered by swamps, grassland and tropical forests. Part of the White Nile River passes through South Sudan, particularly in the region of Juba. The White Nile and its tributaries contribute to the creation of the Sudd, one of the largest freshwater wetlands in the whole world.

Location
South Sudan is located north of Kenya and Uganda and to the west of Ethiopia. It is in the Sahel region of northeastern Africa, and south of Sudan. It lies 8° 00’ north of the Equator and 30° 00’ east of Greenwich.

Area
Slightly smaller than Texas, South Sudan has a total landmass of 619,745 square kilometers, composed of 10 states namely East Equatoria, West Equatoria, Central Equatoria and also includes Jonglei or Junqali, Unity, Upper Nile, North Bahr el Ghazal, West Bahr el Ghazal, Warrap and Lakes. These 10 states were formed from the three historic provinces of Equatoria, Upper Nile and Bahr el Ghazal, respectively.

Land Boundaries
South Sudan is a landlocked nation, so it does not have a coastline and has no maritime claims. The country has a very long land boundary totaling 5,413 kilometers. Its southern section is bordered by the Democratic Republic of Congo for 639 kilometers, Uganda by 435 kilometers and Kenya by 232 kilometers. Along the eastern section, South Sudan shares a border with Ethiopia for 934 kilometers and the Central African Republic borders it for 989 kilometers on its western section. Its longest border is with Sudan on the north, which extends for 2.184 kilometers.

Climate
Being near the equator, South Sudan experiences a predominantly tropical climate. The annual shift of the inter-tropical convergence zone affects the seasonal rainfall of the country, with the northern portion of the country receiving less rainfall than the higher regions in the south. Heaviest rainfall occurs during the months of April up to October, averaging 37.54 inches annually. The rest of the year is generally hot.

Terrain
South Sudan’s terrain is a mix of plains on the northern and central regions with highlands located in the southern region near the border with Kenya and Uganda. Numerous tropical rainforests can be seen in South Sudan, evidence of its tropical climate and its nearness to the Equator. Other areas are dominated by grassland and swamps, particularly the one that is fed by the White Nile River, an area that is more than 100,000 square kilometers that is near the center of South Sudan. It is a place called Sudd or Bahr al Jabar. It is considered one of the largest wetlands in the world. In the Nile River basin, the Sudd is considered to be the largest freshwater wetland.

Elevation Extremes
The highest peak in South Sudan is Mount Kinyeti, which rises to a height of 3,187 meters. It is located in the state of Eastern Equatoria, near the border with Uganda. Mount Kinyeti is part of the Imatong Mountains in South Sudan, which is part of the mountain range called Lolobai or Lomatiri mountains that extend out to the Ugandan border.

Land Use
Although South Sudan will require extensive help in all aspects of its development as the newest country in the world, it is expected that its agricultural potential will be tapped since 80% of the land in South Sudan is arable, compared to Kenya, which only has about 33% arable land. The country also receives higher rainfall than its neighboring countries that promotes growth of trees, vegetables, grains and herbs.

Natural Resources
South Sudan has deposits of diamonds, gold, iron ore, limestone, copper, zinc, mica, silver, chromium ore and tungsten. The country also has fertile lands suitable for agriculture, vast hydropower potential and also has hardwoods and petroleum.

Current Environmental Issues
The years of civil war had left South Sudan devastated and neglected. The Sudd is a breeding ground for mosquitoes and other parasites that affect humans and animals. There is lack of hygiene and environmental sanitation. Wastewater management is also lacking. South Sudan needs sources of clean and potable water.

:: People of South Sudan ::

The population of South Sudan is composed of different ethnic tribes, most of them belonging to Nilotic tribes like the Dinka, Shiluk and Nuer. There are also other tribes like the Azande, Jo Luo and the Lotuhu and Acholi. The Dinka is the largest group of people living in South Sudan, broken down into about 25 smaller ethnic groups. The Nuer is the second largest ethnic tribe followed by the Shilluk tribe.

Population
Inconclusive data figures, based on a disputed census done in 2008 places the population of South Sudan at about 8,260,490 although it can be as high as 9.3 million. The highest concentration of the population is located in Jonglei with about 1.4 million, followed by about 1.1 million in Central Equatoria where the nation’s capital Juba is located. The rest of the population is almost evenly distributed in the other 8 states, with the West Bahr el Ghazal being the least populated with just about 333,000 people. There is no data on net migration but according to existing records from the United Nations, it was estimated that about 1.7 million displaced South Sudanese returned to their homes in 2008. The New Sudan Centre for Statistics and Evaluation estimates the population of South Sudan to be about 12.5 million.

Age Structure
According to 2008 estimates the majority of the population’s age structure in South Sudan is in the 0-14 and 15-64 age groups. The zero to fourteen age group has 44.4%, with 1,945,033 males versus 1,722,860 females. Fifty-three percent of the population is in the 15 to 64 age group, with 2,216,427 males and 2,157,893 females. The lowest age structure is in the 65 years and over age bracket, with only 2.6%, broken into 125,840 males and 92,437 females.

Infant Mortality Rate
According to World Vision, the infant mortality rate in South Sudan is very high, with their statistics showing 150 deaths for every 1,000 live births. It is a very big issue in South Sudan. Because of the diseases that are prevalent in the country, children under five years of age, numbering about 670,000 are three times more likely to die from diseases that are very easy to prevent such as diarrhea, acute respiratory infections, malaria and malnutrition.

HIV/AIDS
HIV/AIDS is another threat to South Sudan after the long civil wars, with South Sudanese returning from countries like Uganda and Kenya where HIV/AIDS prevalence is high. According to a news report published on June 14, 2011, there are 116,000 known cases of AIDS infection in South Sudan with about 46,000 receiving treatment in medical centers around the country.

Nationality
People native to South Sudan are called South Sudanese, which is used as a noun in singular and plural form and also used as an adjective.

Ethnic Groups
South Sudan is composed of about 200 ethnic tribes, such as the Dinka, Nuer, Shilluk, which are the three biggest groups of ethnic tribes. Other ethnic groups include the Acholi, Anuak, Azande, Bari, Bongo, Bviri, Didinga, Dungotona, Kakwa, Kuku, Lango, Lndi, Mandari, Murle and Ndogo.

Religions
Most of the people in South Sudan practice Christianity, with Catholicism and Assemblies of God followed by many. Others practice traditional beliefs like animism.

Languages
In South Sudan, English and Standard Arabic are the official languages, with Arabic including Juba and Sudanese variants included. Being composed of over 200 ethnic tribes, the language in South Sudan is very diverse. Some of the regional languages spoken in South Sudan are Dinka, Nuer, Shilluk, Bari, Otuho, Ubangian and Jur Modo.

Literacy
Although most people aged 15 and over can read and write, literacy in South Sudan has fallen, basically due to poverty and the two civil wars that lasted for almost 40 years. Currently it is the second lowest in the world, following Afghanistan. Of the total population, only 27% is literate, slightly higher for the males at 40% and only 16% for the females.

:: References ::
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/South_Sudan
http://southsudaninfo.net/
http://www.worldatlas.com/webimage/countrys/africa/sd.htm
http://www.africa.upenn.edu/Hornet/sd_machar.html
https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/od.html
http://www.southern-sudan.com/about-sudan.htm
http://www.trademarksa.org/news/south-sudan%E2%80%99s-vast-agricultural-sector-potential-untapped
http://www.southsudan.net/sanitation.html
http://www.wvafrica.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=152&Itemid=169
http://www.sudantribune.com/HIV-AIDS-may-prove-more-damaging,39226
http://www.guardian.co.uk/global-development/poverty-matters/2011/jul/08/south-sudan-independence-history

Geography of South Sudan: Important Geographical Information about South Sudan

South Sudan has very fertile lands. And the country also has deposits of precious gemstones and metal, as well as petroleum.

The country has one of the largest freshwater swamps known as the Sudd. It is fed by the White Nile and its many tributaries. The amount of vegetation in the Sudd makes it very difficult to navigate, as the rotting and floating vegetation form into almost small islets that hamper the passage of water transportation. South Sudan also has several protected areas and there are several animals and birds that are endemic to the region, such as the painted hunting dog. It has a number of antelopes including the white-eared kob, topi, Nile lechwe, oryx, common eland, giant eland and hartebeest. The forest reserves are home to monkeys, chimpanzees, forest elephants, red river hogs, giant forest hogs and bongo.

Large areas are occupied by grasslands, savannas, wetlands and floodplains. There are also escarpments and plateaus located in the upland areas. There is a large number of wildlife in South Sudan, making the savannas, grasslands and wetlands their habitats. Most are designated as wildlife reserves and parklands.

:: References ::
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geography_of_South_Sudan
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/South_Sudan

Information about the South Sudanese Flag: Colors and Meaning of the Flag of South Sudan

The flag of the newest country in the world has three horizontal stripes of equal size in black, red and green with white thin stripes in between. A blue triangle is positioned at the hoisting side of the flag where a golden five-pointed star is placed at the center. It is similar to the flag of Kenya and Sudan, reflecting the Pan-Arab colors. The flag was adopted after the Comprehensive Peace Agreement was signed. It was also the flag that was used by the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement.

The black stripe on top of the flag represents the Southern Sudanese while the white stripes symbolize peace. The red stripe in the middle of the flag signifies all the blood that had been shed by their people who fought for freedom while the green stripe at the bottom of the flag is meant to symbolize the land. The blue triangle reflects the color of the waters of the Nile River. The golden star, called the Star of Bethlehem symbolizes the hope of the South Sudanese for unity of the people as well as the 10 states of South Sudan.

:: References ::
http://www.southern-sudan.com/sudanflag.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flag_of_South_Sudan

Extensive List of Languages of South Sudan: Spoken and Extinct Languages

:: List of Languages ::

Acheron
[acz] North, Southern Kordofan Province, Moro Hills. Alternate names: Achurun, Asheron, Aceron, Garme. Dialects: Eastern Acheron, Western Acheron. Classification: Niger-Congo, Kordofanian, Talodi, Talodi Proper, Tocho

Acholi
[ach] 45,000 in Sudan (2000). South, Opari District, Acholi Hills. Alternate names: Acoli, Acooli, Akoli, Atscholi, Dok Acoli, Gang, Log Acoli, Lwo, Shuli. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Nilotic, Western, Luo, Southern, Luo-Acholi, Alur-Acholi, Lango-Acholi

Afitti
[aft] 4,510 (1984 R. Stevenson). North, Nuba Hills, east Jebel ed Dair. Main center is Sidra. Alternate names: Affitti, Dinik, Ditti, Unietti. Dialects: Lexical similarity: 59% with Ama [nyi]. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Western, Nyimang

Aja
[aja] 200 (1993 SIL). South, Western Bahr el Ghazal Province. Alternate names: Adja, Ajja. Dialects: They consider themselves a Kresh tribe, but their language is not intelligible to the Kresh; nearer to Banda in vocabulary and to Kresh in structure (Santandrea). Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, West, Kresh

Aka
[soh] 300 (1989 Bender). North, Sillok (Silak) Hills, west of Berta-speaking [wti] people. Alternate names: Fa-C-Aka, Jebel Silak, Jebels Sillok, Sillok. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Eastern, Eastern Jebel, Aka-Kelo-Molo

Ama
[nyi] 70,000 (1982 SIL). North, Kordofan Province, northwest of Dilling in hills of which Jebel Nyimang is part; Mandal (Male) range. Some villages: Kalara, Koromiti, Nitil, Al Fous, Kakara, Hajar Sultan, Salara, Tundia, Fuony (Funda). Alternate names: Inyimang, Nyima, Nyiman, Nyimang, Nyuwing. Dialects: Ama, Mandal (Male). Lexical similarity: 59% with Afitti [aft], 80% between Ama and Mandal dialects. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Western, Nyimang

Anuak
[anu] 52,000 in Sudan (1991 UBS). Population total all countries: 97,600. Upper Nile Province, Pibor and Lower Akobo rivers. From Akobo Post to latitude 6.45N. Also in Ethiopia. Alternate names: Anyuak, Anywa, Anywak, Dho Anywaa, Jambo, Nuro, Yambo. Dialects: More similar to Acholi [ach] and Luo languages of Uganda than to Shilluk [shk]. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Nilotic, Western, Luo, Northern, Anuak

Arabic, Standard
[arb] Middle East, North Africa. Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Semitic, Central, South, Arabic

Arabic, Sudanese Creole
[pga] 20,000 (1987). South, widespread in Equatoria region, into Bahr al Ghazal and Upper Nile regions. Refugees have gone to other countries. Alternate names: Juba Arabic, Pidgin Arabic, Southern Sudan Arabic. Dialects: Dialectal variations in different areas due to different local vernaculars. Classification: Creole, Arabic based

Arabic, Sudanese Spoken
[apd] 15,000,000 in Sudan (1991). Population total all countries: 16,833,000. Primarily north. Also in Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Libya, Saudi Arabia. Alternate names: Khartoum Arabic. Dialects: Khartoum, Western Sudanese, North Kordofan Arabic, Ja’ali, Shukri. Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Semitic, Central, South, Arabic

Avokaya
[avu] 40,000 in Sudan (2002). Population total all countries: 65,000. South, Western Equatorial Province. Ajugu is on Sudan-Congo border south of Maridi; Ojila mainly between Naam (Era) and Olo rivers and east. Also in Democratic Republic of the Congo. Alternate names: Abukeia, Avukaya. Dialects: Ojila (Odzila, Odziliwa), Ajugu (Adjiga, Ojiga, Agamoru). Similar to Logo [log]. Avokaya Pur near Faradje is more similar to Logo than to the Ojila dialect of Sudan. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, East, Moru-Madi, Central

Bai
[bdj] 2,500 (Welmers 1971). South, Western District, Wau-Deim Zubeir road, west of Sere. Some north of Tembura. 2 villages. Alternate names: Bari. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Sere-Ngbaka-Mba, Sere, Sere-Bviri, Bai-Viri

Baka
[bdh] 25,000 in Sudan (1993 UBS). Population total all countries: 26,300. South, Western Equatoria Province, south and west of Maridi, northwest of Yei. Also in Democratic Republic of the Congo. Alternate names: Tara Baka. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, West, Bongo-Bagirmi, Bongo-Baka, Baka

Banda, Mid-Southern
[bjo] South, Sopo, near Central African Republic border. Refugees in Khartoum. Dialects: Dukpu, Wasa. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Banda, Central, Central Core, Mid-Southern

Banda, Togbo-Vara
[tor] South. Dialects: Togbo (Tohgboh, Tagbo). Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Banda, Central, Central Core, Togbo-Vara

Banda, West Central
[bbp] 3,000 in Sudan (1982 SIL). Between Wau and Mboro. Alternate names: Golo. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Banda, West Central

Banda-Banda
[bpd] South, Sopo near Central African Republic border. Refugees in Khartoum. Dialects: Govoro (Govhoroh), Vidiri (Mvedere, Vodere, Vidri, Vadara), Wundu. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Banda, Central, Central Core, Banda-Banda

Banda-Mbrès
[bqk] South, Sopo, near Central African Republic border. Refugees in Khartoum. Alternate names: Banda of Mbrés, Banda-Mbre. Dialects: Buka (Bouka), Mbre (Mbere, Mbele), Moruba (Morouba, Maraba), Sabanga (Sangbanga), Wada (Ouadda). Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Banda, Central, Central Core, Banda-Mbres

Banda-Ndélé
[bfl] South, Sopo near Central African Republic border. Refugees in Khartoum. Alternate names: Banda of Ndélé, Nyele. Dialects: Junguru (Djingburu, Nguru), Tangbago (Tambolo, Tambaggo, Tombaggo, Tangago), Banda-Kpaya. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Banda, Central, Central Core, Banda-Ndele

Bari
[bfa] 420,000 in Sudan (2000). 26,400 in Kuku, 18,000 in Nyangbara, 3,400 in Nyepu, 25,000 in Pojulu. Population total all countries: 480,000. South, both banks of the Nile, south of Terakeka on west bank, south of Mongalla on east bank, as far as Kajo Kaji Escarpment. Also in Uganda. Alternate names: Beri. Dialects: Bari, Kuku, Nyangbara (Nyangwara, Nyambara), Nyepu (Nyefu, Nyepo, Nypho, Ngyepu), Pöjulu (Pajulu, Fadjulu, Fajelu, Madi), Ligo (Liggo). Lexical similarity: 86% between the Bari and Nyepu dialects, 85% between Bari and Pöjulu, 81% between the Bari and Kuku, 80% between the Bari and Nyangbara. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Nilotic, Eastern, Bari

Baygo
[byg] No known speakers. Ethnic population: 850 (1978 GR). North, Southern Darfur, southeast of Nyala, hills east of Kube (Kubbi), Jebel Beygo. Alternate names: Baigo, Bego, Beigo, Beko, Béogé, Beygo. Dialects: Similar to Daju [daj] of Darfur. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Western, Daju, Western Daju

Bedawiyet
[bej] 951,000 in Sudan (1982 SIL). 30,000 Hadendoa, 15,000 Bisharin (1992). Population total all countries: 1,186,000. Northeast along Red Sea coast. Also in Egypt, Eritrea. Alternate names: Bedauye, Bedawi, Bedawiye, Bedja, Beja, Tu-Bedawie. Dialects: Hadendoa (Hadendowa, Hadendiwa), Hadareb (Hadaareb), Bisharin (Bisariab), Beni-Amir. Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Cushitic, North

Belanda Bor
[bxb] 8,000 (1983 SIL). South between Wau and Tambura; Bahr-el-Ghazal in Raffili, Tirga, Bazia, Ayo, Gitten, and Taban villages; Western Equatoria Province, Komai, Nagero, Bangazegino, and Tambura villages. Alternate names: De Bor. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Nilotic, Western, Luo, Northern, Bor

Belanda Viri
[bvi] 16,000 (Welmers 1971). South, scattered villages (Bringi, Bagari, Dadu, Ngoku, Ngisa, Farajallah, Ngotakala, Ngongba, Natabo, Momoyi, and some others), Raffili area; on Wau road; on Kuru River, 65 km from Deim Zubeir; Tembura area among Zande [zne]; Iba River near Yambio. Alternate names: Belanda, Biri, BGamba, Gumba, Mbegumba, Mvegumba. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Sere-Ngbaka-Mba, Sere, Sere-Bviri, Bai-Viri

Beli
[blm] 6,600 (1982 SIL). 5,000 Beli, 1,600 Sopi. South, southwest of Rumbek, Wulu, Bahr Gel road west, south toward Lakes Province south border; east of Mvolo with no links to those at Wulu. Bahri Girinti (Lake Nyiropo) is center, just west of Yei River. Some heavily intermingled with Dinka. Alternate names: ’Beli, Behli, Beili, Jur Beli. Dialects: Wulu, Bahri Girinti, Sopi (Supi). Lexical similarity: 46% with Jur Modo [bex], 45% with Bongo [bot], 41% with Mo’da [gbn] and Morokodo [mgc], 39% with Baka [bdh]. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, West, Bongo-Bagirmi, Bongo-Baka, Morokodo-Beli

Berta
[wti] 22,000 in Sudan. Blue Nile Province, on Ethiopia border. Alternate names: Barta, “Beni Shangul” , Burta, Wetawit. Dialects: Shuru, Bake, Undu, Mayu, Fadashi. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Berta

Berti
[byt] Extinct. North, Tagabo Hills, Darfur, and Kordofan. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Saharan, Eastern

Birked
[brk] Extinct. North, north Darfur, north and east of Daju and Baygo, east of Jebel Marra between Jebel Harayt and Rizaykat (Arab) country; north of Nyala; north Kordofan south of El Obeid. Alternate names: Birgid, Birguid, Birkit, Birqed, Kajjara, Murgi. Dialects: Lexical similarity 60% with Kadaru [kdu]; 51% with Midob [mei]. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Eastern, Nubian, Central, Birked

Boguru
[bqu] 490 in Sudan. Mariko, Baambu, Ibba, Bagasu. Also in Democratic Republic of the Congo. Alternate names: Buguru, Kogoro, Koguru. Dialects: Boguru, Bukur (Bukum, Bukuru). Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, Unclassified

Bongo
[bot] 10,100 (2000). Sparsely populated from Tonj and Wau north, Beli [blm] east, Zande [zne] south, and Bor [dks] west. Alternate names: Bungu, Dor. Dialects: Busere Bongo, Tonj Bongo, Bungo. Slight dialect differences between those on the River Busere, who have had Zande influence, and those around Tonj. Bungo dialect has minor differences. Similar to the Jur Beli [blm] subgroup. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, West, Bongo-Bagirmi, Bongo-Baka, Bongo

Burun
[bdi] 18,000 (Voegelin and Voegelin 1977). North, Blue Nile Province. Alternate names: Barun, Borun, Cai, Lange. Dialects: Ragreig, Abuldugu (Bogon, Mugo-Mborkoina), Maiak, Mufwa (Mopo), Mughaja (Mugaja, Mumughadja). Some southern dialects are intelligible with Mabaan [mfz]. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Nilotic, Western, Luo, Northern, Maban-Burun, Burun

Dagik
[dec] 38,000 including Ngile speakers (1982 SIL). North, Kordofan Province, Nuba Mountains; Mesakin Hills, Reika village. Alternate names: Buram, Dagig, Dengebu, Masakin, Masakin Dagig, Masakin Gusar, Reikha, Thakik. Dialects: Lexical similarity: 80% with Ngile [jle] (most similar). Classification: Niger-Congo, Kordofanian, Talodi, Talodi Proper, Ngile-Dengebu

Dair
[drb] 1,000 (1978 GR). North, west and south Jebel Dair, Kordofan. Alternate names: Dabab, Daier, Thaminyi. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Eastern, Nubian, Central, Hill, Unclassified

Daju, Dar Fur
[daj] 80,000 (2007 SIL). North, Dar Fur Province, Daju Hills 40 km northeast of Nyala; Geneina District in Dar Masalit. West Kordofan dialect in Daju Hills near Lagowa, main settlements at Dar el Kabira (Kidong), Silecce, and Warina; Jebel Miheila, Nyukri, and Tamanyik. Alternate names: Beke, Dagu, Daju Ferne, Fininga, Nyala-Lagowa. Dialects: Nyala, Lagowa. Lexical similarity: 83% between the Nyala and Lagowa dialects, 74% with Dar Sila [dau], 62% with Shatt [shj], 56% with Logorik [liu]. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Western, Daju, Western Daju
Daju, Dar Sila
[dau] North. Nearly all Daju of Dar Sila migrated into Dar Fur from Chad. Alternate names: Bokor, Bokorike, Bokoruge, Mongo-Sila, Sila, Sula. Dialects: Mongo, Sila. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Western, Daju, Western Daju

Didinga
[did] 60,000 (2007). 1997 parish survey indicated population of 117,000, but probably included many non-Didinga refugees. South, Didinga Hills (60 km northeast of Sudan, Kenya and Uganda borders); north of Nagishot. Alternate names: ’Di’dinga, Lango, Toi, Xaroxa. Dialects: Ethnic groups: Chukudum, Lowudo. Slight differences in speech between Chukudum and Lowudo, apparently mainly phonetic. Lexical similarity: 83% with Narim [loh], 71% with Murle [mur]. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Eastern, Surmic, South, Southwest, Didinga-Murle, Didinga-Longarim

Dilling
[dil] 5,300 (1984 R. Stevenson), decreasing. North, Southern Kordofan, Dilling town and surrounding hills, including Kudur. Alternate names: Delen, Warkimbe. Dialects: Dilling, Debri. Lexical similarity: 94% between the Dilling and Debri dialects. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Eastern, Nubian, Central, Hill, Unclassified

Dinka
[din] A macrolanguage. Population total all countries: 1,350,000.

Dinka, Northeastern
[dip] 320,000 (1986 UBS). 7,200 Abialang, 9,000 Dongjol, 2,500 Luac, 16,000 Ngok-Sobat, 20,000 Jok, 13,500 Ageer, 2,000 Rut, 400 Thoi. South, northeast of the Sudd, both sides of White Nile, along Sobat River. Alternate names: Padang, White Nile Dinka. Dialects: Abiliang (Dinka Ibrahim, Akoon, Bawom, Bowom), Dongjol, Luac (Luaic), Ngok-Sobat (Ngork, Jok), Ageer (Ager, Ageir, Abuya, Beer, Niel, Nyel, Paloc, Paloic), Rut, Thoi. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Nilotic, Western, Dinka-Nuer, Dinka

Dinka, Northwestern
[diw] 80,000 (1986). South, north of Bahr el Ghazal River; south Kordofan, Abyei area. Dialects: Alor, Ngok-Kordofan, Pan Aru, Ruweng. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Nilotic, Western, Dinka-Nuer, Dinka

Dinka, South Central
[dib] 250,000. 2,000 Aker, 2,000 Thany, 22,000 Ciec, 25,000 Gok (Tucker and Bryan 1956). Total Dinka 2,000,000 or more. South, west of the Nile, south of the Sudd. Aker is southeast of Agar; Aliap south of Bor [dks] in fishing villages mainly on Nile east bank; Ciec in Lakes District on Nile west bank; Gok between Agar and Rek [dik] in Jur River and Lakes districts. Alternate names: Agar, Central Dinka. Dialects: Aliap (Aliab, Thany, Aker), Ciec (Ciem, Cic, Chiech, Kwac, Ajak, Ador), Gok (Gauk, Cok), Agar. The Gok dialect influenced by Southwestern Dinka [dik] with Arabic loans; Agar being accepted as educational standard for South Central Dinka [dib]. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Nilotic, Western, Dinka-Nuer, Dinka

Dinka, Southeastern
[dks] 250,000 in Sudan. 21,000 Atoc, 9,000 Ghol, 4,000 Nyarueng, 35,000 Twi, 21,000 Bor Gok (Tucker and Bryan 1956). Population total all countries: 265,900. South, east of the Nile, Bor [dks] area, and north. Also in Canada. Alternate names: Bor, Eastern Dinka. Dialects: Bor (Bor Gok), Athoc (Athoic, Atoc, Borathoi, Bor Athoic), Ghol, Nyarweng (Nyarueng, Narreweng), Tuic (Twi). Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Nilotic, Western, Dinka-Nuer, Dinka

Dinka, Southwestern
[dik] 450,000 (1982 UBS). 55,000 Abiem, 15,000 Luac, 40,000 Malual, 17,000 Paliet, 35,000 Palioupiny, 50,000 Tuic. South, north and northwest of Wau. Alternate names: Rek, Western Dinka. Dialects: Rek (Raik), Abiem (Ajong Dit, Ajong Thi, Akany Kok, Akern Jok, Apuoth, Apwoth, Anei), Aguok (Agwok), Apuk, Awan, Lau, Luac, Malual (Malwal, Atoktou, Duliit, Korok, Makem, Peth), Paliet (Baliet, Ajak, Buoncwai, Bon Shwai, Bwoncwai, Kongder, Kondair, Thany Bur, Tainbour), Palioupiny (Palioping, Akjuet, Akwang, Ayat, Cimel, Gomjuer), Tuic (Twic, Twich, Twij, Adhiang, Amiol, Nyang, Thon). The Luac dialect is different from Luac dialect in Northeastern Dinka [dip]. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Nilotic, Western, Dinka-Nuer, Dinka

Domari
[rmt] North. Classification: Indo-European, Indo-Iranian, Indo-Aryan, Central zone, Dom

Dongotono
[ddd] 1,000. South, Eastern Equatoria Province, Dongotono Hills southeast of Torit. Dialects: May be a separate language or dialect of Lango [lno]. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Nilotic, Eastern, Lotuxo-Teso, Lotuxo-Maa, Lotuxo

El Hugeirat
[elh] 50 (2007 SIL), decreasing. North, West Kordofan, El Hugeirat Hills, Sija, Bija, Shenshin, Baboy villages. Alternate names: El Hagarat. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Eastern, Nubian, Central, Hill, Unclassified Nearly extinct.

Feroge
[fer] 8,000 (1982 SIL). South, Western Bahr el Ghazal at Khor Shamam, northeast of Raga. Alternate names: Feroghe, Ferroge, Kalige, Kaligi, Kalike, Kaliki. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Sere-Ngbaka-Mba, Sere, Feroge-Mangaya

Fulfulde, Adamawa
[fub] 90,000 in Sudan (1982 SIL). North, Blue Nile and Kordofan regions. Alternate names: Fellata. Dialects: Gombe. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Atlantic, Northern, Senegambian, Fulani-Wolof, Fula, Eastern

Fur
[fvr] 500,000 in Sudan (1983 Bender). Population total all countries: 501,800. North, Darfur; east. Also in Chad. Alternate names: Dala, For, Fora, Fordunga, Forok, Forta, Furakang, Furawi, Kadirgi, Konjara, Korra, Kungara, Kurka, Lali, Onage, Yerge. Dialects: Largely uniform with some dialect differences. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Fur

Gaam
[tbi] 67,200 (2000). North, Tabi Massif and area hills, Jebel Tabi area; a few in Khartoum. Alternate names: Ingassana, Ingessana, Kamanidi, Mamedja, Mamidza, Metabi, Muntabi, Tabi. Dialects: Soda (Tao), Kukur (Gor), Kulang (Kulelek, Bau), Buwahg (Buek). Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Eastern, Eastern Jebel, Gaam

Gbaya
[krs] 16,000 in Sudan (1987 SIL). South, western Bahr el Ghazal Province, Kuru, Deim Zubeir, Raga, Angbanga, Kata, Menangba, Boro, Kafia Kingi. Dongo reportedly in south Darfur Province, Hobbinya District, Wau and Khartoum. Most in Raga and Boro. Also in Central African Republic. Alternate names: Kpala, Kpara, Kparla, Kredj, Kreich, Kreish, Kresh. Dialects: Naka (Kresh-Boro), Gbaya-Ndogo (Kresh-Ndogo), Gbaya-Ngbongbo (Kresh-Hofra), Gbaya-Gboko, Orlo (Woro), Gbaya-Dara, Dongo. 8 tribes and dialects. Gbaya-Ndogo is prestigious and understood by all. Naka is largest and also well understood. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, West, Kresh

Ghulfan
[ghl] 16,000 (1984 R. Stevenson), decreasing. North, Kordofan, 2 hills 45 km south of Dilling: Ghulfan Kurgul and Ghulfan Morung. villages: Tarda, Ninya, Kurgul, Moring, Dabri, Katang, Shigda, Karkandi, Ota, Namang. Alternate names: Gulfan, Wunci, Wuncimbe. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Eastern, Nubian, Central, Hill, Kadaru-Ghulfan

Gula
[kcm] 1,100 in Sudan (1987 SIL). South, extreme western Bahr el Ghazal Province, Kafia Kingi; Kata. Alternate names: Kara, Kara of Sudan, Yamegi. Dialects: Gula (Goula), Nguru (Bubu, Koyo). Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, West, Bongo-Bagirmi, Kara

Gule
[gly] No known speakers. Ethnic population: 1,000 (1983 Bender). North, Jebel Gule, San and Roro hills north of the Gaam, west of Er Roseires. Alternate names: Anej, Fecakomodiyo, Hamej. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Komuz, Koman

Gumuz
[guk] 40,000 in Sudan. North, east of Er Roseires, Famaka and Fazoglo areas on the Blue Nile; north along Ethiopia border. Alternate names: Debatsa, Deguba, Dehenda, Gombo, Gumis, Mendeya, Shankillinya, Shanqilla. Dialects: Disoha (Desua), Dakunza (Degoja, Dukunza, Gunza, Ganza, Dukuna, Dugunza), Sai, Sese (Saysay), Dekoka, Dewiya, Kukwaya, Gombo, Jemhwa, Modea. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Komuz, Gumuz

Hausa
[hau] 80,000 in Sudan (2007). North. Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, West, A, A.1

Heiban
[hbn] 4,410 (1984). North, Heiban area, Abul (Obul), and nearby hills; Abri-Talodi road, Heiban town. Alternate names: Abul, Ebang. Classification: Niger-Congo, Kordofanian, Heiban, West-Central, Central, Ebang-Logol, Ebang-Laru

Homa
[hom] Extinct. South, Mopoi and Tambura towns. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Central, D, Bira-Huku (D.30)

Indri
[idr] 700. South, southwest in Raga area. Alternate names: Yanderika, Yandirika. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Sere-Ngbaka-Mba, Sere, Indri-Togoyo

Jumjum
[jum] 25,000 (1987). North Upper Nile Province, along Khor Jumjum: Jebels Tunga, Terta, and Wadega. Alternate names: Berin, Olga, Wadega. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Nilotic, Western, Luo, Northern, Maban-Burun, Maban

Jur Modo
[bex] 100,000 (2004 SIL). South, Mvolo area; Naam (Olo) River. Alternate names: Jur, Modo. Dialects: Lori, Modo (Jur Modo, Modo Lali), Wira, Wetu. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, West, Bongo-Bagirmi, Bongo-Baka, Morokodo-Beli

Kacipo-Balesi
[koe] 10,000 in Sudan (2003). Almost completely monolingual. Population total all countries: 14,120. South, Boma Plateau, near Ethiopia border. Also in Ethiopia. Dialects: Kichepo, Suri, Western Suri. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Eastern, Surmic, South, Southwest, Kacipo-Balesi

Kadaru
[kdu] 7,000. North, Kordofan Province, Nuba mountains, Kadaru Hills (known as ‘Jibaal as Sitta’) between Dilling and Delami. Alternate names: Kadaro, Kadero, Kaderu, Kodhin, Kodhinniai, Kodoro. Dialects: Kadaru (Kodur), Kururu (Tagle), Kafir (Ka’e), Kurtala (Ngokra), Dabatna (Kaaral), Kuldaji (Kendal). Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Eastern, Nubian, Central, Hill, Kadaru-Ghulfan

Kakwa
[keo] 40,000 in Sudan (1978 SIL). South, Yei District, into Democratic Republic of the Congo, west at Aba; south, Mahagi area. Alternate names: Bari Kakwa, Kakua, Kakwak, Kwakwak. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Nilotic, Eastern, Bari

Kanga
[kcp] 8,000 (1989). North, Miri Hills, west and southwest of Kadugli. Kufa village cluster southeast of Miri, northeast of Lima, and north of Kanga. 4 main villages in Kufa: Toole, Lenyaguyox, Bilenya, and Dologi; Toole main center. Lima in villages Lima, Kilag, and Mashaish, 15 km west of Kadugli. Dialects: Abu Sinun, Chiroro-Kursi, Kanga, Kufa-Lima, Krongo Abdalla. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Kadugli-
Krongo

Kanuri, Central
[knc] North. Alternate names: “Beriberi” , Bornouans, Bornu, Kanouri, Kanoury, Kole, Sirata, Yerwa Kanuri. Dialects: Dagara, Kaga (Kagama), Sugurti, Lare, Kwayam, Njesko, Kabari (Kuvuri), Ngazar, Guvja, Mao, Temageri, Fadawa, Maiduguri. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Saharan, Western, Kanuri

Karko
[kko] 13,000 (1984 R. Stevenson). North, Karko Hills, Kordofan, 35 km west of Dilling, including Dulman. Alternate names: Garko, Kithonirishe. Dialects: Karko, Kasha, Shifir. Varieties spoken by the Ilaki on Abu Junuk to the west (1,000) and by the Tamang at El Tabaq southwest of Katla (800) may be dialects or separate languages. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Eastern, Nubian, Central, Hill, Unclassified

Katcha-Kadugli-Miri
[xtc] 75,000 (2004 SIL). 30,000 Katcha and Kadugli (2004), 4,000 Miri and 6,500 Tumma. North, Kordofan Province, hills south of Nuba Hills. Katcha is in Katcha, Tuna, Kafina, Dabakaya (Donga), Belanya and Farouq villages, south of Kadugli and southeast of the Miri Hills; Kadugli in villages surrounding Kadugli, namely, Murta, Kulba, ’Daalimo, Thappare and Takko; Miri in Miri Bara, Miri Guwa, Umduiu, Nyimodu, Luba, Kadoda, Kya, Tulluk, Hayar al-Nimr, Kuduru, Kasari and Sogolle villages which lie west of Kadugli. Dialects: Katcha (Tolubi, Dholubi), Kadugli (Dakalla, Talla, Dhalla, Toma Ma Dalla, Kudugli, Morta), Miri, Damba, Tumma. R. C. Stevenson treats them as dialects of one language. Ruhlen (1987) and Schadeberg (1989) treat them as separate. Samir Bulus says that Tumma is dialect of Katcha. Lexical similarity: 85% among Katcha, Kadugli, and Miri dialects, 88% between Kadugli and Damba. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Kadugli-Krongo

Katla
[kcr] 14,200 (1984 R. Stevenson). North, Nuba Hills, Katla Hills 55 km southwest of Dilling. Katla in Bombori, Kateik, Kiddu, Kirkpong, Karoka, Koldrong; Julud in Karkarya, Karkando, Kolbi, Kambai, Rumber, Octiang, Sabba, Tolot, Kary, Kitanngo, Kimndang, Kabog, Koto Kork, Kabosh, Kabog North. Alternate names: Akalak, Kalak. Dialects: Katla, Julud. Classification: Niger-Congo, Kordofanian, Katla

Keiga
[kec] 6,070 (1984 R. Stevenson). North, Nuba Hills, Jebel Demik, north of Miri; west Kadugli Province, 3 areas: Ambong (villages: Ambong, Ambongadi, Kandang, Kuluwaring, Tingiragadi, Lakkadi, Taffor, Arungekkaadi, Bila Ndulang, Roofik, Saadhing); Lubung (villages: Kuwaik, Tungunungunu, Miya Ntaarang, Miya Ntaluwa, Miya Ndumuru, Semalili); Tumuro (villages: Koolo, Kayide, Jughuba, Tumuro). Alternate names: Aigang, Demik, Keiga-Al-Kheil, Keiga-Timero, Yega. Dialects: Demik (Rofik), Keiga (Aigang). Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Kadugli-Krongo

Keliko
[kbo] 10,000 in Sudan (1998 SIL). Population total all countries: 22,500. South, south Yei District. Also in Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda. Alternate names: Kaliko. Dialects: Eastern Keliko, Western Keliko. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, East, Moru-Madi, Central

Kelo
[xel] 200. North, Tornasi Hills, Jebels Tornasi (Keeli village) and Beni Sheko. West of Berta [wti]. Alternate names: Kelo-Beni Sheko, Ndu-Faa-Keelo, Tornasi. Dialects: Beni Sheko, Kelo. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Eastern, Eastern Jebel, Aka-Kelo-Molo

Kenuzi-Dongola
[kzh] 180,000 in Sudan (1996). Population total all countries: 1,045,000. North, Northern Province, mainly Dongola area. North boundary with Nobiin [fia] is Burgeg. Also in Egypt. Alternate names: Dongola-Kenuz, Dongolawi. Dialects: Dongola, Kenuzi (Kenuz, Kunuzi). Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Eastern, Nubian, Central, Dongolawi

Ko
[fuj] 2,680 (1984 R. Stevenson). North, extreme east Nuba hills, isolated hills between Talodi and the White Nile. Alternate names: Fungor, Fungur, Kau. Dialects: Kau (Ko), Nyaro. Nyaro and Kau may be the same dialect. Classification: Niger-Congo, Kordofanian, Heiban, Eastern

Koalib
[kib] 44,300 (1984 R. Stevenson). North, south Kordofan Province, Nuba Mountains, around Delami, including Umm Berumbita and Turum (Nguqwurang), south and southwest of Abri around Koalib range (Ngunduna), Nyukwur area; Umm Heitan and Hadra (Nginyukwur), Abri (Ngirere) plain area villages. Alternate names: Abri, Kawalib, Kowalib, Lgalige, Ngirere, Nirere, Rere. Dialects: Nguqwurang, Ngunduna, Nginyukwur, Ngirere, Ngemere. Classification: Niger-Congo, Kordofanian, Heiban, West-Central, Central, Rere

Komo
[xom] 10,000 in Sudan (1979 James). Population total all countries: 11,500. North, Ahmar, Tombak, and Yabus rivers; Blue Nile Province, south Funj region. Also in Ethiopia. Alternate names: Central Koma, Como, Gokwom, Hayahaya, Koma of Daga, Madiin. Dialects: Beilla, Chali. Dialects may be separate languages. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Komuz, Koman

Krongo
[kgo] 21,700 (1984 R. Stevenson). North, Kordofan Province, Krongo Hills, south of Masakin range and west of Talodi. Mainly in Tabanya, Toroji and Angolo, and also in Damaguto, Dimadragu, Dimodongo, and Dar. Alternate names: Dimodongo, Kadumodi, Korongo, Kurungu, Tabanya. Dialects: Fama-Teis-Kua. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Kadugli-Krongo

Lafofa
[laf] 600 (2000 M. Brenzinger). North, Nuba Hills, Central Eliri Range; 2 hills south and east. Dialects: Jebel El Amira (El Amira), Jebel Tekeim (Jebel, Tekeim, Tegem), Lafofa. Classification: Niger-Congo, Kordofanian, Talodi, Tegem

Lango
[lno] 38,000 (2007). South, Eastern Equatoria Province, Ikotos area, between Kidepo and Logoforok villages. Alternate names: Langgo. Dialects: Madial Lorwama, Logir, Dongotono, Imotong, and Lokwaa. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Nilotic, Eastern, Lotuxo-Teso, Lotuxo-Maa, Lotuxo

Laro
[lro] 40,000 (1998 local). North, Nuba Hills, Laro (Alleira) hills area, Oya, Rodong (Hajar Medani), Hajar Baco, Gunisaia, Serif, Tondly, Reli, Lagau (Serfinila), Getaw (Hajar Tiya), Orme (Ando) villages. Alternate names: Aaleira, Laru, Ngwullaro, Yillaro. Dialects: Tunduli, Laro. Classification: Niger-Congo, Kordofanian, Heiban, West-Central, Central, Ebang-Logol, Ebang-Laru

Logol
[lof] 2,600. North, extreme east Nuba Hills, isolated hills between Talodi and the White Nile. Alternate names: Lukha. Classification: Niger-Congo, Kordofanian, Heiban, West-Central, Central, Ebang-Logol, Logol

Logorik
[liu] 2,000 (Welmers 1971). North, central Nuba Mountains, Jebel Liguri hills area northeast of Kadugli. Alternate names: Liguri. Dialects: Saburi, Tallau (Talau, Talo, Tilow), Liguri. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Western, Daju, Eastern Daju

Lokoya
[lky] 12,400. South, Eastern Equatoria Province, Torit District. Alternate names: Ellyria, Koyo, Loirya, Lokoiya, Lokoja, Loquia, Lowoi, Oirya, Owoi, Oxoriok. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Nilotic, Eastern, Lotuxo-Teso, Lotuxo-Maa, Lotuxo

Lopit
[lpx] 50,000 (1995 S. Randal). South, Eastern Equatoria Province, Lopit Hills, northeast of Torit. Alternate names: Lafiit, Lafit, Lafite, Lofit, Lopid, Loppit. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Nilotic, Eastern, Lotuxo-Teso, Lotuxo-Maa, Lotuxo

Lumun
[lmd] 45,000 (1980). North, Talodi, Moro Hills; Toromathan, To’ri, and Canya’ru villages. Alternate names: Kuku-Lumun, Lomon. Classification: Niger-Congo, Kordofanian, Talodi, Talodi Proper, Tocho

Luwo
[lwo] 80,000 (1983 census). South, Bahr el Ghazal, north of Wau toward Aweil, southeast of Wau to Tonj. Alternate names: Dhe Luwo, Dhe Lwo, Giur, Jo Lwo, Jur Luo, Jur Lwo, Lwo. Dialects: Different from Langaj (Lwo) [laj] of Uganda, or Dholuo [luo] of Kenya and Luo [luo] of Tanzania, but related. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Nilotic, Western, Luo, Northern, Jur

Mabaan
[mfz] Blue Nile and Upper Nile provinces border, between Yabus and Tombak rivers north and Khor Daga south. Alternate names: Barga, Gura, Maaban, Meban, Southern Burun, Tonko, Tungan, Ulu. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Nilotic, Western, Luo, Northern, Maban-Burun, Maban

Ma’di
[mhi] 18,000 in Sudan (1982 SIL). South, Central Equatoria state, Madi subdistrict; Opari District. Alternate names: Ma’adi, Ma’diti. Dialects: Pandikeri, Lokai, Burulo. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, East, Moru-Madi, Southern

Mandari
[mqu] South, north of Bari, Taliarea; both sides of the Nile between Tombe and Mongalla. Alternate names: Chir, Kir, Mondari, Mundari, Shir. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Nilotic, Eastern, Bari

Mangayat
[myj] 400 (1987 SIL). South, West Bahr el Ghazal, Mangayat, 30 km southeast of Raga; some in Raga. Alternate names: Buga, Mangaya, Mongaiyat. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Sere-Ngbaka-Mba, Sere, Feroge-Mangaya

Masalit
[mls] Population total all countries: 60,900. North, Darfur Province, Dar Masalit and Nyala District, scattered colonies in Dar Fongoro, south and east; Gedaref region; Geneina, Mistere, and Habila Kajangise. Also in Chad. Alternate names: Jwisince, Kaana Masala, Massalit. Dialects: The dialect in Dar Masalit in Darfur differs from that spoken in Nyala District. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Nilotic, Western, Luo, Northern, Maban-Burun, Maban, Mabang, Masalit

Midob
[mei] 50,000 (1993 R. Werner). North, Darfur Province, Jebel Midob, and settled communities in Omdurman and Gezira Aba. The center is Malha. Alternate names: Meidob, Midobi, Tid, Tid-N-Aal, Tidda. Dialects: Shelkota (Shalkota), Kaageddi, Urrti (Uurti). Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Eastern, Nubian, Western

Mittu
[mwu] Extinct. South. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, West, Bongo-Bagirmi, Bongo-Baka, Morokodo-Beli

Mo’da
[gbn] 600 (Voegelin and Voegelin 1977). South, northwest of Mvolo, Lakes and Western Equatoria provinces border, both sides. Alternate names: Gbara, Gberi, Gweri, Muda. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, West, Bongo-Bagirmi, Bongo-Baka, Morokodo-Beli, Morokodo-Mo’da

Molo
[zmo] 100 (1988 M. Bender). Jebel Malkan, near the Berta, south of the Blue Nile, near Ethiopia border. Alternate names: Malkan. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Eastern, Eastern Jebel, Aka-Kelo-Molo

Moro
[mor] 30,000 (1982 SIL). North, east Nuba Mountains, Kordofan Province. Alternate names: Dhimorong. Dialects: Umm Dorein (Longorban), Umm Gabralla (Toberelda), Nderre, Laiyen, Nubwa, Ulba, Werria. Classification: Niger-Congo, Kordofanian, Heiban, West-Central, Western

Morokodo
[mgc] 3,400 (Voegelin and Voegelin 1977). 280 Biti. South, between Amadi and Maridi. Alternate names: Ma’di. Dialects: Biti, Ma’du, Morokodo. A dialect subgroup. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, West, Bongo-Bagirmi, Bongo-Baka, Morokodo-Beli, Morokodo-Mo’da

Moru
[mgd] 70,000 (1982 SIL). 1,200 Agi, 2,500 Andri, 5,000 Kadiro, 9,000 Miza, 400 Wa’di. South, Equatoria Province, Mundri District. Alternate names: Kala Moru. Dialects: Agi, Andri, ’Bali’ba, Kadiro, Lakama’di, Miza, Moruwa’di. Andri and ’Bali’ba dialects are similar, Kadiro and Lakama’di are nearly identical. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, East, Moru-Madi, Northern

Mündü
[muh] 23,000 in Sudan. Population total all countries: 25,800. South, Western Equatoria Province, northwest of Yei, south of Maridi. Also in Democratic Republic of the Congo. Alternate names: Mondo, Mondu, Mountou, Mundo. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Sere-Ngbaka-Mba, Ngbaka-Mba, Ngbaka, Eastern, Mundu

Murle
[mur] 60,000 in Sudan (1982 SIL). Population total all countries: 60,200. South, Upper Nile Province, Pibor District, south of Akobo River, Boma Plateau, and east and north. Also in Ethiopia. Alternate names: Adkibba, Agiba, Ajibba, Beir, Merule, Mourle, Murelei, Murule. Dialects: Ethnic subgroups: Lotilla, Boma, Olam (Ngalam). Maacir may be a dialect or ethnic group. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Eastern, Surmic, South, Southwest, Didinga-Murle, Murle

Narim
[loh] 3,620 (1983 Fukui). South, west Boya Hills, Mt. Kosodek and Mt. Lobuli areas. Alternate names: Lariim, Larim, Lariminit, Larimo, Longarim, Nariim. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Eastern, Surmic, South, Southwest, Didinga-Murle, Didinga-Longarim

Nding
[eli] Extinct. North, south Eliri range. Alternate names: Eliri. Classification: Niger-Congo, Kordofanian, Talodi, Talodi Proper, Nding

Ndogo
[ndz] Few monolinguals. South, Western District, Wau-Deim Zubeir Road between Mboro and Kpango rivers; a few north of Tembura among Zande [zne]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Sere-Ngbaka-Mba, Sere, Sere-Bviri, Ndogo-Sere

Ngile
[jle] 38,000 (1982 SIL). Dajik. North, Kordofan Province, Nuba Mountains, Mesakin Hills, outlying hills. Alternate names: Daloka, Darra, Masakin, Mesakin, Taloka. Dialects: Aheima (El Akheimar), Daloka (Taloka), Masakin Gusar (Mesakin Qusar, Masakin Buram), Masakin Tuwal (Tiwal, Towal). Classification: Niger-Congo, Kordofanian, Talodi, Talodi Proper, Ngile-Dengebu

Njalgulgule
[njl] 900 (Voegelin and Voegelin 1977). South, Sopo River just above Sopo-Boro confluence; west of the Dinka. 1 village. Alternate names: Bege, Begi, Beko, Ngulgule, Njangulgule, Nyolge, Nyoolne. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Western, Daju, Western Daju

Nobiin
[fia] 295,000 in Sudan (1996). Population total all countries: 605,000. Northern Province, north from Burgeg to Egypt border at Wadi Halfa; Kassala Province, New Halfa. Also in Egypt. Alternate names: Fiadidja-Mahas, Mahas-Fiadidja, Mahas-Fiyadikkya. Dialects: Mahas (Mahasi, Mahass), Fiyadikka (Fedicca, Fadicha, Fadicca, Fadija, Fiadidja). Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Eastern, Nubian, Northern

Nuer
[nus] 740,000 in Sudan (1982 SIL). 2,935 Western Jikany, 12,500 Lou, 1,100 Nyuong, 2,500 Thiang, 5,900 Bul, 2,400 Jagai, 6,700 Laak, 4,900 Leik, 1,600 Door, 17,600 Eastern Jikany (Voegelin and Voegelin 1977). Population total all countries: 804,900. South, east Upper Nile Province, upper Sobat River, Nasir, a triangle area formed between Bahr el Zeraf and Bahr el Jebel, up Sobat River across the Ethiopia border. Also in Ethiopia. Alternate names: Naadh. Dialects: Dor (Door), Eastern Jikany (Jikain, Jekaing), Abigar, Western Jikany, Cien, Thognaath (Thok Nath), Lou (Lau), Nyuong, Thiang (Bul, Gawaar, Jagai, Laak, Leik). Dialects correspond mainly to geographic divisions. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Nilotic, Western, Dinka-Nuer, Nuer

Nyamusa-Molo
[nwm] 1,200 (Voegelin and Voegelin 1977). South, Western Equatoria Province, southeast of Beli, northeast of Morokodo. Dialects: Nyamusa, Molo. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, West, Bongo-Bagirmi, Bongo-Baka, Morokodo-Beli, Morokodo-Mo’da

Olu’bo
[lul] 15,000 (1985 SIL). South, Eastern Equatoria Province, 50 km east of Nile River. Main town is Lokiliri, between Juba-Torit and Juba-Nimule roads. Alternate names: Lolubo, Luluba, Lulubo, Olubogo, Oluboti, Ondoe. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, East, Moru-Madi, Southern

Opuuo
[lgn] Upper Nile Province, Kigille and Maiwut area on Ethiopia border. Buldit in Daga River area, villages Paitath and Tedibi. Alternate names: Ansita, Ciita, Cita, Kina, Kwina, “Langa” , Opo, Opo-Shita, Opuo, Shita, Shitta. Dialects: Buldit, Kusgilo. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Komuz, Koman

Otoro
[otr] 10,000 (2001). North, Kordofan Province, Nuba Mountains region, Otoro Hills south of Heiban and west of Heiban-Talodi road. Alternate names: Dhitoro, Kawama, Kawarma, Litoro, Utoro. Dialects: Dugujur, Dukwara, Dorobe, Dogoridi. Classification: Niger-Congo, Kordofanian, Heiban, West-Central, Central, Ebang-Logol, Utoro

Otuho
[lot] 135,000 (Voegelin and Voegelin 1977). Dongotono (1998), 2,500 Koriot, 1,000 Lomya. South, Torit District, Eastern Equatoria Province, east and southeast of Olubo [lul] and Lokoya [lky]. Alternate names: Latooka, Lattuka, Latuka, Latuko, Lotuho, Lotuka, Lotuko, Lotuxo, Olotorit, Otuxo. Dialects: Koriok, Logiri (Logir), Lomya (Lomia), Lorwama, Lowudo (Loudo, Lauda), Logotok. Logiri and Lorwama may be dialects of Lango [lno] not Otuho. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Nilotic, Eastern, Lotuxo-Teso, Lotuxo-Maa,

Lotuxo
Päri
[lkr] 28,000 (1987 SIL). South, Eastern Equatoria Province, Jebel Lafon, Bura, Pucwaa, Pugari, Kor, Angulumeere, and Wiatuo villages, northwest of Lopit [lpx], northeast of Lokoya [lky]. Alternate names: “Lokoro”. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Nilotic, Western, Luo, Northern, Unclassified

Reel
[atu] 50,000 (1998). South, Lakes Province; border Ciec Dinka [dib] north near Panekar; Agar Dinka [dib] west near Lake Nyibor; Jur Modo [bex] south; and Ador Dinka [dib] east near Yirol. Alternate names: Atwot, Thok Cieng Reel. Dialects: No dialect differences. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Nilotic, Western, Dinka-Nuer, Nuer

Shatt
[shj] 15,000 (1984 R. Stevenson). North, Shatt Hills southwest of Kadugli (Shatt Daman, Shatt Safia, Shatt Tebeldia); Abu Hashim and Abu Sinam areas. Alternate names: Caning. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Western, Daju, Eastern Daju

Shilluk
[shk] 175,000 (1982 SIL). South, Upper Nile Province, between Nile and Kordofan Province boundary, 130 km west of Tonga; Nile east bank, Nile and Sobat River junction area, and 35 km up Sobat River. Alternate names: Chulla, Colo, Dhocolo, Shulla. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Nilotic, Western, Luo, Northern, Shilluk

Shwai
[shw] 3,500 (1989). North, Kordofan Province, Nuba Mountains, Shwai Hills villages, northwest of Otoro near Heiban-Kadugli road. Alternate names: Ludumor, Shirumba, Shuway. Dialects: Shabun, Cerumba (Shirumba), Ndano. Classification: Niger-Congo, Kordofanian, Heiban, West-Central, Shirumba

Sinyar
[sys] Foro Boranga is main center. Alternate names: Shemya, Sinya. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, West, Bongo-Bagirmi, Sinyar

Suri
[suq] 1,000 in Sudan (1983 SIL). South, Boma Plateau near Ethiopia border. Alternate names: Surma. Dialects: Tirma (Tirima, Terema, Terna, Dirma, Cirma, Tirmaga, Tirmagi, Tid), Chai (Caci, Cai). Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Eastern, Surmic, South, Southeast, Pastoral, Suri

Tagoi
[tag] 13,000 (1982 SIL). 2,000 Tagoi, 552 Moreb, 1,100 Tumale (1977 Voegelin and Voegelin). North, Kordofan Province, Nuba Mountains, Moreb, Tagoi, Turjok, Tumale Hill, possibly Tuling village. Tagoi in Tukum and Turum (1956 Tucker and Bryan). Alternate names: Tagoy. Dialects: Moreb, Tumale, Tagoi. Classification: Niger-Congo, Kordofanian, Rashad

Talodi
[tlo] 1,500 (1989). North, Nuba Hills, Talodi town and hill, Tasomi and Tata villages. Alternate names: Ajomang, Gajomang, Jomang. Dialects: Dialects nearly identical. Classification: Niger-Congo, Kordofanian, Talodi, Talodi Proper, Jomang

Tama
[tma] 5,000 in Sudan (1970). North, Darfur. Masalit [mls] south, Arabic-speakers north. Mileere is in Jabal Muun area, Western Darfur, main town Salia, and west of Nyala; Erenga in Sirba area, Abu Suruj, Saraf Jidad, Bir Dagig, Kondobe villages. Dialects: Tama, Erenga, Murase, Mileere (Milerinka). Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Western, Tama, Tama-Sungor

Tegali
[ras] 35,700 (1984 R. Stevenson). North, Kordofan Province, Nuba Mountains, Tegali Range, Rashad hills and Rashad town. Alternate names: Tagale, Tegele, Tekele, Togole. Dialects: Rashad (Kom, Ngakom, Kome), Tegali. Classification: Niger-Congo, Kordofanian, Rashad

Temein
[teq] 13,000 (2006). 6,000 population in home area villages; 7,000 population in other towns in Northern Sudan. North, Nuba Hills, Temein hills southwest of Dilling, between Jebels Ghulfan Morung and Julud (Gulud), Tukur, Nekring, Kwiye, Tokoing, Tulu, Farik, Kuris villages. Alternate names: Rone, Ronge, Temainian. Dialects: Lexical similarity: 67% with Tese [keg]. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Western, Temein

Tennet
[tex] 4,000 (1994 SIL). South, Equatoria Province, Lopit Hills, northeast of Torit. 5 villages. Alternate names: Tenet. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Eastern, Surmic, South, Southwest, Didinga-Murle, Tennet

Tese
[keg] 1,400 (Welmers 1971). North, Nuba Hills, Keiga Jirru west of Debri; 6 villages northeast of Kadugli. Alternate names: Keiga Girru, Keiga Jirru, Teis-Umm-Danab. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Western, Temein
Thuri
[thu] 6,600 (Tucker and Bryan 1956). South, between Wau and Aweil, between Jur and Lol rivers, Raga-Nyamlell and Wau-Deim Zubeir roads. Alternate names: Dhe Thuri, Jo Thuri, Shatt, Wada Thuri. Dialects: Bodho (Dhe Boodho, Dembo, Demen, Dombo), Colo (Dhe Colo, Jur Shol, Jo Colo), Manangeer (Jur Manangeer). Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Nilotic, Western, Luo, Northern, Thuri

Tigré
[tig] Red Sea coast between Eritrea border and Tokar. Alternate names: Khasa, Xasa. Dialects: Mansa’ (Mensa). Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Semitic, South, Ethiopian, North

Tima
[tms] North, West Kordofan District, Nuba Hills, Jebel Tima area villages, 15 km southwest of Katla. Alternate names: Lomorik, Lomuriki, Tamanik, Yibwa. Classification: Niger-Congo, Kordofanian, Katla

Tingal
[tie] 8,000 (1982 SIL). North, Tegali Hills. Alternate names: Kajaja, Kajakja. Classification: Niger-Congo, Kordofanian, Rashad

Tira
[tic] 40,000 (1982 SIL). North, Nuba Hills, Otoro to Talodi area. Alternate names: Lithiro, Thiro, Tiro. Dialects: Kinderma (Kanderma), Tira El Akhdar (Tira Dagig), Tira Lumum (Luman), Tira Mandi. Slight variations among dialects. Classification: Niger-Congo, Kordofanian, Heiban, West-Central, Western

Tocho
[taz] 3,800 (Voegelin and Voegelin 1977). North, Talodi, Moro Hills. Alternate names: Tacho, Toicho. Classification: Niger-Congo, Kordofanian, Talodi, Talodi Proper, Tocho

Togoyo
[tgy] Extinct. South, west, Raga, small area. Alternate names: Togoy. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Sere-Ngbaka-Mba, Sere, Indri-Togoyo

Toposa
[toq] 100,000 (2000 M. Schroeder). South, Singaita and Lokalyen rivers’ sides. Ritual center at Loyooro River. Migrate to Moruangipi, and farther east for seasonal grazing into Ilemi Triangle at Ethiopia border, but no permanent settlements there. Alternate names: Akara, Kare, Kumi, Taposa, Topotha. Dialects: Eastern Toposa, Western Toposa, Jiye. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Nilotic, Eastern, Lotuxo-Teso, Teso-Turkana, Turkana

Torona
[tqr] Extinct. North, Talodi, Moro Hills. Classification: Niger-Congo, Kordofanian, Talodi, Talodi Proper, Tocho

Tulishi
[tey] 8,630 (Voegelin and Voegelin 1977). 3,000 Kamda, 2,500 Tulishi. North, Nuba Hills west edge hills, Jebel Tulishi south of Katla; Jebel Kamdang north of Lagowa, south of Tulishi, Laati, Lawwa, Ntukungnge, Aabiisa, Nattilongke, Aliyooro Manadaha, Thudhi, Kirakaati vilages. Lagawa largest village, Kam’da administrative center. Alternate names: Kuntulishi, Thulishi, Tulesh. Dialects: Tulishi, Kamda (Kamdang), Dar El Kabira (Turuj, Truj, Logoke, Minjimmina). Dar el Kabira and Kamdang dialects are similar. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Kadugli-Krongo

Tumtum
[tbr] 7,300. 6,000 in Karondi, 1,300 in Tumtum. North, Nuba Hills; Kurondi south of Eliri; Eliri area north, Talassa. Dialects: Karondi (Kurondi, Korindi), Talassa (Talasa), Tumtum. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Kadugli-Krongo

Uduk
[udu] North, Upper Nile Province from Belila north, south along Blue Nile Province boundary to Yabus River. Alternate names: Burun, Kebeirka, Korara, Kumus, Kwanim Pa, Othan, Twampa. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Komuz, Koman

Wali
[wll] 9,000 (2007). Some monolinguals. North, Wali Hills, south of Karko Hills. Alternate names: Walari, Walarishe. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Eastern Sudanic, Eastern, Nubian, Central, Hill, Unclassified

Warnang
[wrn] 1,100 (1956 census). North, far east Nuba Hills, isolated hills, between Talodi and the White Nile. Alternate names: Werni. Classification: Niger-Congo, Kordofanian, Heiban, Eastern

Yulu
[yul] 3,000 in Sudan (1987 SIL). 2,000 Yulu and 1,000 Binga. South, Western Bahr el Ghazal Province, Khor Buga, Yulu, 5 km west of Raga; Habbaniya District of Darfur. Binga at Menangba, west of Raga. Alternate names: Youlou. Dialects: Binga, Yulu. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Central Sudanic, West, Bongo-Bagirmi, Kara

Zaghawa
[zag] 75,000 in Sudan (2000 SIL). Population total all countries: 169,000. North, northwest Dar Fur, and scattered south; Kordofan. Also in Chad, Libya. Alternate names: Beri, Beri-Aa, Berri, Kebadi, Kuyuk, Merida, Soghaua, Zagaoua, Zagawa, Zauge, Zeggaoua, Zeghawa, Zorhaua. Dialects: Wagi (Twer), Kube, Tuba (Bideyat). Wagi is the main dialect in Sudan. Ethnic subgroups are Kobe, Dor, Anka, with slight dialect differences. Classification: Nilo-Saharan, Saharan, Eastern

Zande
[zne] 350,000 in Sudan (1982 SIL). South. Alternate names: Azande, Badjande, Pazande, Sande, Zandi. Dialects: Dio, Makaraka (Odio). Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Adamawa-Ubangi, Ubangi, Zande, Zande-Nzakara

:: Reference ::
Gordon, Raymond G., Jr. (ed.), 2005. Ethnologue: Languages of the World, Fifteenth edition. Dallas, Tex.: SIL International. Online version: http://www.ethnologue.com/

Famous South Sudanese People: South Sudanese Artists, Scientists, Leaders, Musicians, Politicians and Athletes

As the country recently gained its independence, a number of people from South Sudan are gaining more prominence, after decades of oppression and civil wars. Others have already made a name for themselves but their names were included in the list of famous Sudanese rather than labeled specifically as South Sudanese. With their independence it is expected that more South Sudanese will be recognized for their exceptional talent and their contributions to their country.

:: List of Famous People from South Sudan ::

Alek Wek
Long before her home country became independent, Alex Wek has already made a name for herself in the fashion world. She was born on April 16, 1977. Her mother is a homemaker and her father was an education official. They are from the Dinka tribe. The war in South Sudan caused them to flee the country and they moved to Britain in 1991. Alek later established residence in the United States.

She was discovered by a talent scout from Model 1 in London and gained attention when she was included in the 1995 music video Tina Turner did for the James Bond film, Golden Eye. She became one of the Ford Models in 1996. She also appeared in the Janet Jackson music video for the song Got ‘Til It’s Gone in 1996. In 1997 Alek was named by MTV as their Model of the Year. She became the first African model to grace the cover of the fashion magazine, Elle in 1997. Alek had done advertisements for several top fashion clothing and cosmetic brands and had modeled for some of the top fashion designers like Chanel, Calvin Klein, Donna Karan, Christian Lacroix and John Galliano. She also has a line of designer bags which she herself designed, under her label Wek 1933.

Alek Wek devotes part of her time for humanitarian work. She is an ambassador for the Doctors Without Borders; works for UNICEF as well as spends time to work as a World Vision missionary. She is also a member of the US Committee for Refugees Advisory Council.

Emmanuel Jal
Emmanuel Jal recalls that he was born sometime in 1980. He became a child soldier during the second civil war in South Sudan. His father was a fighter with the Sudan People’s Liberation Army. When his mother died in the war when he was seven years old, he and his fellow children fled to Ethiopia because they were told that they will be able to go to school there. They were actually trained to become child soldiers. He began fighting the Muslims in Ethiopia and later in South Sudan, until disillusion set in when he was about 11 years old and he and some of this fellow child soldiers fled.

When he reached the village of Waat, Emmanuel Jal met Emma McCune, an aid worker from Britain who adopted him and brought him to Kenya secretly. Emma McCune wanted him to get an education and was sent to school in Nairobi. It was unfortunate that Emma died too early but Emma’s friends, Anna Ledgard and Madeleine Bunting helped so Emmanuel can stay in school, even if he had to live in the slums because Emma’s husband refused to allow Emmanuel to stay with him. While in school, Emmanuel started singing to alleviate his pain and discovered hip hop music. With positive encouragement from people around him, he began to concentrate on his music, with his music focused on political issues and his own story.

His first album, Gua, which he produced, was a mix of Arabic, Swahili, Dinka, Nuer and English rap lyrics. Although his introduction to rap music was through the American brand of rap, Emmanuel’s music had a definite African beat. The title track Gua became an instant hit in Kenya. It was followed by his second single, War Child, with a rap-soul-world music mix. His second album, released in September 2005 was entitled Ceasefire. His songs were getting airplay in the United States as well, with a new version of Gua being part of the soundtrack for the end of Season 12 of the hit US TV series, ER.

Emmanuel Jal had performed in 2005 at the Live 8 Cornwall concert; received an American Gospel Music Award as best international talent in 2005 and part of the all-star assembly of performers during the 90th birthday of Nelson Mandela that was held on June 27, 2008 at the Hyde Park in London.

Deng Gai
Deng Gai was born on March 22, 1982 in Wau, South Sudan. He was a professional basketball player who used to be with the NBA, playing as a power forward. He stands 6 feet 9 inches. He attended Connecticut’s Milford Academy then Fairfield University where he played college basketball. He was awarded the MAAC Defensive Player of the Year three times and ranked 8th on the NCAA’s all-time list of players with most blocked shots made when he graduated. Gai played for the Philadelphia 76ers in 2005 and also played for Wilmington Sea Dawgs (ABA) and Dodge City Legend for USBL. He also played with the Albany Patroons (USBL) and represented Slask Wroclaw of Poland in 2007-2008. He is currently (2011) playing for Palangos Naglis.

Luol Deng
Luol Deng was born in Wau, South Sudan on April 16, 1985. He is a member of the Dinka tribe. He and his family relocated to Egypt to escape the second civil war in South Sudan. He received training in basketball from another South Sudanese and also a Dinka, Manute Bol who played in the NBA. They were granted asylum and moved to Brixton, a district in South London and later played for the Brixton Basketball Club. At age 13 he was part of the England team that participated in the European Junior Men’s Qualifying Tournament and earned an MVP award. He was also instrumental in the finals appearance of England in the European Junior National Tournament. He also earned another MVP award in that tournament.

He moved to the United States when he was 15 years old and enrolled in Blair Academy in New Jersey on a basketball scholarship then attended Duke University for one year. He entered the NBA Draft in 2004 and was picked by Phoenix Suns but was immediately traded to the Chicago Bulls. His 2008 contract with the Chicago Bulls was US$71 million and including incentives, he was expected to receive a total of about US$80 million. Deng Luol is involved in many charities, including working for the Lost Boys of Sudan. He also toured with the NBA under the Basketball Without Borders and is a spokesperson for the World Food Programme of the United Nations.

Yaba Angelosi
Yaba Angelosi was born in Juba, South Sudan. His family moved to the United States in 2000. He is now based in the United States. He is a talented professional entertainer and singer and had performed in front of distinguished guests at exclusive places like the White House and Howard University. He also performed during the CPA celebration of Sudan held in Washington, D.C.

Emmanuel Kembe
Like many of his compatriots, Emmanuel Kembe left Sudan because of the war. His songs of protest caused him to be driven out of Southern Sudan and he went to the United States where he continued to write and records songs for justice, peace and freedom for South Sudan. His music is along the reggae, folk and Afro-pop genre. He belongs to the Gbaya ethnic group located in the Western Bahr el Ghazal state.

Manute Bol
Manute Bol was born on October 16, 1962. He was the son of a tribal chief belonging to the Dinka tribe. Manute was one of the tallest players in the NBA, with a height measuring 7 feet and 7 inches. Officially, from the measurement done by the Guinness Book of World Records, Manute’s height is recorded as 7 feet and 6 ¾ inches. Manute was specially known for his shot blocking skills when he was playing in the NBA, achieving many shot blocking records. He was the mentor of another South Sudanese NBA player, Luol Deng. He was invited to move to the United States on a basketball scholarship and played for the University of Bridgeport.

Bol was drafted to the NBA by the Washington Bullets and since then had played for different NBA teams in a career that spanned 10 years. After spending 1985 to 1988 with the Washington Bullets he played for the Golden State Warriors for two seasons from 1988 to 1990 where he shot three pointers almost regularly. Manute Bol then spent three seasons with the Philadelphia 76ers then played eight games in his one-season stint with Miami Heat.

Towards the end of his career he played four games in the 1993-1994 season with Philadelphia 76ers before signing up with the Golden State Warriors for the second time in the 1994-1995 season.

In his 10-year career playing in the NBA, he amassed 1,599 points, 2,086 blocks and 2,647 rebounds in 624 games. His average per game was 3.3 blocks, 4.2 rebounds, 2.6 points and 0.3 assists.

Manute Bol also supported several charities during his career and basically donated most of his earnings in support of the welfare of Sudanese people in general. He founded the Ring True Foundation, which was aimed at helping raise funds to support refugees from Sudan. He got seriously wounded in a car accident in 2004 when he was thrown out of a taxi he was riding in when the taxi driver, who was found out to be driving under the influence, overturned after his taxi hit a guardrail. Manute broke his neck during the accident. Manute died on June 19, 2010 from acute kidney failure as well as complications from Stevens-Johnson syndrome. His remains were interred in Sudan.

:: References ::
http://celebratesouthsudan.tumblr.com/post/7352969942/south-sudanese-music
http://en.wikipedia.org/