Word for the Travel Wise (05/11/06)

There are some countries in Africa vacation go-ers may never ever explore due to the continuous civil strife and treacherous war conditions that plague the lands and their people. The bigger issue is not whether or not we’ll be able to snap a picture of some monument 5 to 10 years later, safely without being mugged or shot; the issue at present is how we’re willing to help the everyday citizens of Sudan live in peace. As a citizen of the world it is important to lend a helping hand no matter how big or small and there are several ways to get involved. First find Sudan on a map and learn where it is Africa. I’m surprised at how many people don’t know. Next, check out Amnesty International’s Human Rights Concerns to see how the people, women and children are having their rights violated on a daily basis. Then take action! Amnesty International has several ways for you to contribute in making Sudan a more peaceful place.

Today’s word is a Katcha word from Sudan:

idha – kill

Sorry for the gloomy word, but I’m sure it is one heard here and there by the few people still speaking the Katcha lingo. The official language of Sudan is Arabic and to the best of my belief the Katcha language is nearly extinct if not completely wiped out already. Katcha is a Nilo-Saharan language which falls under the Kadu language subgroup. Learning online will not be easy, but here are a few links that may be able to teach you a word or two beyond what I’ve presented today: Global Recording Networks has some religious recordings in the Katcha lang with additional links on the page and YourDictionary.com has word lists available for download in MS Word docs. Their word lists will more than likely be your best shot at finding words online.