Tongwe

TNY

vigorous

Alternate Names: Kitongwe, Sitongwe

Dialects: Tongwe and Bende , are probably dialects of 1 language. Lexical similarity: 83%–91% with Bende , (with different varieties).

Genealogy:

Niger-Congo
Atlantic-Congo
Volta-Congo
Benue-Congo
Bantoid
Southern
Narrow Bantu
Central
F
Tongwe-Bende (F.11)

Demographics: 13,000 (2001). Ethnic population: 31,600 (2000).

Language Use: In the mountains, vigorous use by all ages; in Kalya and Kashagulu, some Swahili [swh]; in other areas, speakers are over 40. Use Tongwe when speaking with Bende [bdp]. Home. Mainly older adults. Positive attitudes. Also use Swahili [swh].

Language Development: Dictionary.

Writing System: Unwritten

Nation of Origin: Tanzania

Other Comments: Traditional religion.