Luo, Southern

a group of related peoples living in Uganda and the bordering regions of the Sudan and the Republic of Zaire. They include the Acholi (Gang, Shuli, Makdschuru), Lango (Umiro), Kumam (Akum, Ikololemu), Luo (Jaluo, Luwo), and Alur (Alua, Luri). Total population, 1.4 million (1970, estimate). The language of the Southern Luo belong to the Nilotic languages. The majority of the Southern Luo retain their traditional beliefs (worship of natural forces and ancestors); some are Muslims. Their chief occupations are farming (millet, corn, and legumes) and cattle raising.