What Language Do They Speak in Central African Republic?
Facts last checked 9 October 2026.
Central African Republic has 2 official languages: Sango, French.
Learn some Sango before you go
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Sango Phrasebook & Dictionary
The essentials for ordering food, asking directions and being polite.
Languages of Central African Republic at a glance
| Official languages | Sango, French |
|---|---|
| Number of official languages | 2 |
| Countries on this site where Sango is official | 1 |
| People (demonym) | Central African |
| Capital | Bangui |
| Internet domain | .cf |
Languages of neighbouring countries
| Cameroon | French, English |
|---|---|
| Chad | Arabic, French |
| DR Congo | French, Kikongo, Lingala, Swahili, Tshiluba |
| Republic of the Congo | French, Kikongo, Lingala |
| South Sudan | English |
| Sudan | Arabic, English |
Central African Republic in context
- Central African Republic covers 622,984 km², making it the 42nd largest of the 196 countries on this site.
- Its population density of about 10 people per km² ranks 182nd of 196 (1st = most crowded).
- It shares a land border with 6 countries: Cameroon, Chad, DR Congo, Republic of the Congo, South Sudan, Sudan.
- Central African Republic is landlocked, with no direct coastline.
- With 6,470,307 people, Central African Republic holds about 2.8% of the population of Middle Africa.
- With 2 official languages, Central African Republic has more than most countries on this site.
- Traffic drives on the right, and calendars start the week on Monday.
- Central African Republic is a member state of the United Nations.
Useful phrases for visitors to Central African Republic
Everyday French phrases you will hear and use in Central African Republic:
| English | French |
|---|---|
| Hello | Bonjour |
| Thank you | Merci |
| Please | S'il vous plaît |
| Goodbye | Au revoir |
| Yes | Oui |
| No | Non |
Spellings can vary by region, and some languages use different forms for formal or informal speech. Even a simple greeting in the local language is usually appreciated.
Languages in Central African Republic — FAQ
What language do they speak in Central African Republic?
The official languages of Central African Republic are Sango and French.
How many official languages does Central African Republic have?
Central African Republic has 2 official languages: Sango, French.
Is Sango spoken anywhere else?
Central African Republic is the only country on this site where Sango is an official language.
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