What language is spoken in Ethiopia?
Amharic is Ethiopia's official language, used by government and media. English has been the second official language since 1942 and serves as the medium of instruction. Over 100 dialects coexist across regions.
Official languages
Amharic is the main official language, used in the press, on television and by the government. English has held the status of second official language since 1942 and remains the language of higher education.
Regional linguistic diversity
Ethiopia boasts exceptional linguistic richness with more than 100 recorded dialects. The main regional languages include:
- Oromo: spoken by the country's largest ethnic community
- Tigrigna: dominant in the north, particularly in Tigray
- Ge'ez: liturgical language of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church
To remember for your trip
In tourist areas and major cities like Addis Ababa, English facilitates communication. Learning a few words of Amharic will be appreciated by the local population, particularly in rural regions.