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Where in Africa was German spoken?

German was spoken in various parts of Africa, primarily due to colonialism. Here's a breakdown:

German Colonies:

* German East Africa (present-day Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi): German was the official language of administration and education.

* German South West Africa (present-day Namibia): German was the official language and remains spoken by a significant minority today.

* German Cameroon (present-day Cameroon): German was the official language.

* Togoland (present-day Togo): German was the official language.

Other Areas with German Influence:

* South Africa: A small German community settled in South Africa during the 18th and 19th centuries, leaving a legacy in some areas.

* Other parts of Southern Africa: German missionaries and traders established a presence in regions like Zimbabwe and Zambia, spreading the language to some extent.

Post-Colonial Legacy:

While the use of German as an official language ended after the First World War, it continues to be spoken in some areas, particularly in Namibia. However, its use has declined considerably in other former colonies.

Important Note:

It's important to distinguish between German spoken as a first language and as a second language. In most parts of Africa, German is spoken as a second language, often learned for historical reasons or due to the presence of German communities.

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