* Colonial History: Madagascar was a French colony from 1896 to 1960. During this period, French was the language of administration, education, and commerce.
* Official Language: When Madagascar gained independence, French remained an official language alongside Malagasy, the native language. This was partly due to the influence of the French administration and the desire for international communication.
* Education & Prestige: French continued to be the language of higher education, government, and international business. This contributed to its ongoing prestige and use.
While French is widely spoken in Madagascar, it's important to note:
* Malagasy Remains Dominant: Malagasy, a Malayo-Polynesian language, is the primary language spoken by the majority of the population.
* Regional Variations: The use of French varies across the country, with higher usage in urban areas and among those with higher education.
So, while French is spoken in Madagascar due to its colonial history, its use is intertwined with factors like official language status, education, and societal prestige.