Epena

SJA

educational

Alternate Names: Cholo, Embera, Emberá-Saija, Epená Saija, Saija, Southern Empera

Dialects: Basurudó.

Genealogy:

Chocoan
Emberá
Southern Emberá

Demographics: 3,500 in Colombia (2004 IMB), increasing. Population total all countries: 3,750.

Language Use: Vigorous. Home, religion, fiestas, ceremonies, commerce. Positive attitudes. Also use Spanish [spa], Woun Meu [noa].

Language Development: Literacy rate in L1: 1%–5%. Literacy rate in L2: 25%–50%. 400 readers, 50 can write. Movement toward using the language in primary schools. Dictionary. Grammar. NT: 2005–2010.

Writing System: Latin

Nation of Origin: Colombia

Other Comments: Traditional religion, Christian.