Shabo

A language of Ethiopia

ISO 639: sbf
Alternate Names: Chabu, Sabu, “Mekeyer” (pej.), “Mikair” (pej.), “Mikeyir” (pej.), “Shako” (pej.)
Population: 400 (2000 M. Brenzinger), decreasing. Ethnic population: 600 (2000).
Location:: Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples’ region: Sheka zone; Oromia region: Illubabor zone.
Language Status: 6b (Threatened).
Classification: Unclassified
Dialects: None known. Distinct from Sheko [she]. Lexical similarity: 30% with Majang [mpe], 12% with other West Cushitic (Omotic) languages.
Typology: SOV; postpositions; gender in all 3 persons.
Language Use: Most domains. Some young people, all adults. Neutral attitudes. Also use Majang [mpe]. Also use Shekkacho [moy].
Language Resources: OLAC resources in and about Shabo
Writing: Unwritten [Qaax].
Other Comments: They live in family units, not villages. Traditional religion.

Location: Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples’ region: Sheka zone; Oromia region: Illubabor zone.