Äiwoo

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A language of Solomon Islands

ISO 639-3
nfl
Alternate Names
Aïwo, Ayiwo, Gnivo, Lomlom, Naaude, Nifilole, Nivo, Reef Islands, Reefs
Population

8,400 (1999 SIL), increasing.

Location

Temotu Province, Santa Cruz Islands, primarily the Reef islands: Lomlom Fenualoa, Nibanga Nede, and Nibanga Temaa. Many villages scattered along the north coast of Santa Cruz, and Honiara.

Language Maps
Language Status

6a (Vigorous).

Classification
Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Temotu, Reefs-Santa Cruz
Typology

OVS.

Language Use

Vigorous. Religious services, commerce. All ages. Positive attitudes. Good speakers respected, Pijin borrowings disliked. A few also speak English [eng]. Also use Pijin [pis], Vaeakau-Taumako [piv]. Used as L2 by Vaeakau-Taumako [piv].

Language Development
Literacy rate in L1: Low. Literacy rate in L2: 25%–50%. Orthography not standardized so few readers. Taught in primary and secondary schools. Radio programs. Grammar.
Language Resources
OLAC resources in and about Äiwoo
Writing

Latin script [Latn].

Other Comments

Christian.