Introduction

The Yangben language of southern Cameroon is spoken by around 2,300 speakers. Most of these speakers are located in Yangben canton, south of Bokito town, in the Bokito subdivision of the Mbam and Inoubou division.

Alternate names for this group are Central Yambassa, Kalong, Nuasue, Nukalonge, and Yambassa.

The classification of Yangben is Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Benue-Congo, Bantoid, Southern, Narrow Bantu, Northwest, A, Sanaga (A.62)

There are three dialects of Yangben: Nukalonge, Nutanga, and Numende. The language is also similar to Elip and Mmaala. There is high intelligibility with Nubaca (77%) and Mbule (51%)

Language Use
Yangben is used in religious services. There is a general positive additude about the language.  Adults use Yangben frequently and some young people still use the language. Some Yangben use French or Mmaala or Nugunu instead of their mother tongue. Bulu is used in the Presbyterian Church while Ewondo is used in the Catholic Church. Yangben is used as a second language by speakers of Bati, Elip,  Hijuk, Mbule, and Mmaala.

Language Development
French is used in primary and secondary education. Yangben is beginning to be taught as a subject in some schools. Some have written poetry in Yangben. Portions of the Bible have been translated into Yangben.