Languages of Guinea
| Languages of Guinea | |
|---|---|
| Official languages | French |
| National languages | Fula, Malinké, Susu, Kissi, Kpelle (also known in French as Guerzé), Toma |
| Sign languages | American Sign Language (Francophone African Sign Language) |
| interethnic | French, Fula |
The Republic of Guinea is a multilingual country, with over 40 languages spoken. The official language is French, which was inherited from colonial rule.
Several indigenous languages have been given the status of national languages: Fula (or Pular); Malinké (or Maninka); Susu; Kissi; Kpelle (known in French as Guerzé) and Toma.
Government and institutions
French is the language of state and of official institutions. It is used by 15 to 25% of the population.[1] At the end of the Ahmed Sékou Touré regime, French was the only language used in business and schools.
By region
Fula (32%) is mostly spoken in Middle Guinea, where the major city is Labé. Malinké (30%) is mostly spoken in Upper Guinea, where Kankan is the major city. Susu (10%) is mostly spoken in Guinée maritime, where the capital is Conakry.
Guerzé (3.8%), Kissi (3.5%) and Toma (1.8%) are spoken in Guinée Forestière. More specifically, Guerzé is spoken in Nzérékoré and Yomou. Kissi is spoken in Guéckédou and Kissidougou. Kono is a language used in the south of Guinea, mostly in Lola.
Conakry
According to a report by Alpha Mamadou Diallo,[2] the first language of inhabitants of the city of Conakry in decreasing order was: Susu 42%, Pular 20%, Maninka(with koniaka) 19%, Kissi 4%, Guerzé 4%, French 2% and Toma 2%.
Notes and references
- ↑ Linguistic situation in Guinea
- ↑ Usages et images des langues en guinée, page 17, Alpha Mamadou Diallo, Université de Conakry.
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