The Mao and Komo Languages in the Begi – Tongo area in Western Ethiopia: Classification, Designations, and Distribution

Abstract

This survey endeavours through field research along with a critical review of relevant literature to shed some light on the complicated socio-linguistic and language-geographic situation in the Begi–Tongo area in Western Ethiopia, and to suggest a more consequent use of relevant terminology. It strives for a clear distinction between ethnic and linguistic description, provides detailed language maps and proposes terms based on linguistic comparative word lists and sociolinguistic questionnaires. The findings of this study may function as a basis for further discussion and contribute to the more purposeful linguistic and social development of the concerned people groups and the area.

Keywords

• classification
• Mao
• Afroasiatic
• Ethiopia
• Omotic
• Komo
• Nilo-Saharan