A Story of Language, Interrupted and Renewed
From the Greater Bari Language Development Association to the Karo Language Development Institute — a decade-long journey to preserve a linguistic heritage.
The vision began with a dedicated scholar and grew into a movement to preserve and develop the rich linguistic heritage of South Sudan.
Where it all began
The idea of developing what was then known as the Bari language came from the late language development scholar, Francis Scopas Warun. He was encouraged by John Myhill, professor of linguistics at the University of Haifa, who volunteered to mentor the team.
Five founders, one meeting
After consultation, five founders met in Juba to establish the Greater Bari Language Development Association (GBLDA), focused on languages spoken by seven ethnic groups across Central Equatoria State.
Five milestones, one continuous line — from founding to revival.
Five founders established GBLDA in Juba, with Dr. Laila Lokosang drafting the foundational concept note.
Three additional representatives joined: Joseph Abuk (Mundari), Mary Simba (Kakuwa), and Dr. Henry Wani Rondyang (Bari).
Dr. Laila Lokosang drafted the constitution, reviewed by lawyer Manase Lomole Simeon, and completed following South Sudan's independence.
When war broke out in South Sudan in December 2013, the initiative was put on hold.
Dr. Laila Lokosang and Dr. Henry Wani Rondyang revived the initiative, renaming it the Karo Language Development Institute (KALDI).
The people whose contributions, across founding, mentorship, community, and law, laid the foundation for KALDI.
Patrick Ladu, Francis Lokosang, Henry Duku, Joseph Abuk (Mundari), and Mary Simba (Kakuwa) — representing the seven ethnic groups of Central Equatoria State.
The group has met every last Saturday of the month since its founding.
From GBLDA to KALDI, this journey represents resilience and determination in preserving linguistic heritage.
Represented across Central Equatoria State, South Sudan.
From initial conception to revival, spanning over ten years.
International mentorship paired with local expertise.
As KALDI grows its community and expands its work, the mission of language preservation and development lives on.