What language is spoken in Madagascar?
Madagascar's national language is Malagasy, spoken by the entire population. French is the second official language, mastered by approximately 20% of Malagasy people. Each region also has its own Malagasy dialects.
Official languages
Madagascar recognizes two official languages: Malagasy and French. Malagasy is the national language, understood and spoken by all inhabitants of the Great Island. French holds a position as an administrative and educational language, a legacy of the colonial period.
Linguistic distribution
Malagasy remains the everyday language for all 28 million inhabitants. French is mastered by approximately 20% of the population, mainly in urban areas and among educated people. English is growing in the tourism and economic sectors.
Regional dialects
Each region of Madagascar has its specific Malagasy dialects, linked to the 18 main ethnic groups of the island:
- Merina: dialect of the Central Highlands
- Betsimisaraka: east coast of Madagascar
- Betsileo: south of the Highlands
- Sakalava: west of the island
- Antandroy: far south of Madagascar
Despite these dialectal variations, all Malagasy people understand each other thanks to official Malagasy taught in schools.