Diola

(also Jola, Yola), a people living on the Atlantic coast of southern Senegal (1967 estimate, approximately 250,000 persons), in Gambia (population, 20,000), and Portuguese Guinea (population, more than 15,000). The Diola language belongs to the Atlantic family of languages. The Diola tribes include the Felup (Huluf, Karon), Bayot, Djawat, Filham, and Fuluni. Although most Diolas are Muslims, some have retained their ancient traditional beliefs. There are also small groups of Christians. The chief occupations are farming (millet, rice, and peanuts) and fishing. Opportunities exist for seasonal migratory work on peanut plantations.