While Paris is often regarded as the heart of the French-speaking world, it is not the city with the most French speakers.
That title goes to Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Kinshasa has around 12.8 million residents, making it the largest French-speaking city in the world. Paris, with about 11 million people, comes in second.
French is an official language in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is used in government, schools and business.
The city’s use of French makes it easier for people from different regions and backgrounds to communicate.
This is because multiple local languages are spoken alongside French.
The city is also full of culture. Music is very important in Kinshasa, with many songs blending French and local languages. Popular genres like soukous and rumba are often performed in French.
French is also key in education. Schools and universities use French as their main language. This allows students to access educational resources from around the francophone world.
Africa’s role in the French-speaking world is growing. The International Organisation of la Francophonie (OIF) predicts that by 2050, nearly 80 percent of the world’s French speakers will be African.
This predicted growth could make French the third most spoken language globally, up from its current fifth place.
Other African cities also have large French-speaking populations, including Abidjan in Ivory Coast is third, with about 5.4 million residents.
Yaoundé in Cameroon and Casablanca in Morocco are also high on the list.
French in Africa goes beyond communication. It is part of the continent’s history and identity.
In Kinshasa, French mixes with Lingala, a local language, creating a unique way of speaking. This blend is heard in everyday conversations, on radio shows and in political speeches.
