Oniyan

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A language of Senegal

ISO 639-3
bsc
Alternate Names
Ayan, Basari, Bassari, Biyan, Onian, Onëyan, Tenda Basari, Wo
Autonym
Oniyan
Population

15,000 (2015 J. Leclerc). Total users in all countries: 24,200.

Location

Upper Casamance, Edun area; border areas, Kedougou, Tambacounda.

Language Maps
Language Status

5 (Developing). Recognized language (2005, Decree No. 987 of 21 October).

Classification
Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Atlantic, Northern, Eastern Senegal-Guinea, Tenda
Dialects

Ane, Këd, Oxalac.

Language Use

Vigorous. All domains. All ages. Positive attitudes.

Language Development
Radio. Grammar. NT: 2011–2016.
Language Resources
OLAC resources in and about Oniyan
Writing

Latin script [Latn].

Other Comments

Often identified by the majority population as Bassari. Tenda is a cover term for Oniyan [bsc], Badyara [pbp], Wamey [cou], and Ménik [tnr]. High mortality rate. Women intermarry with men from Fulbe and other groups; children become part of the other group. Trading is carried on with the Fulbe. Traditional religion, Christian.

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