Kanembu

Kanembu is a language spoken in the Kanem Region of Chad. It is a member of the Saharan group of the Nilo-Saharan languages. Kanembu has three dialects, which are not mutually intelligible: Masalam, Kanem and Kibyay. Kanembu has a rich oral tradition. The Kanembu people have a rich history and culture, which is reflected in their language. Kanembu is a tonal language, with two tones: high and low. Kanembu has a writing system which was developed by French missionaries in the 19th century. Kanembu is spoken by approximately 200,000 people. The language is endangered, as many young people are choosing to use French or Arabic instead of Kanembu.