Hello fellow expats,
For native speakers of any European language like English, French or German, the Malagasy language can seem incredibly complicated and with very few similarities to the languages that we are used to. For many expats, it must seem like quite a big challenge to learn a language that is so foreign and indeed difficult - I know this is the case for myself! With that said, I really want to learn Malagasy, as I consider it imperative in order to communicate with Malagasy people. Indeed, French language is not sufficient. Maybe if you only go around Antananarivo center, then most people are able to communicate in French as a second language, but as soon as you go a little bit further, or talk to the poor guy in the street, then French is practically useless (in my experience).
What is your take on learning the Malagasy language? Is it vital to every day life in Madagascar? What are some tips that we can share among each other to improve our fluency? Do you know anyone who teaches Malagasy to an English speaking audience? (Personally I would like to find a class or a Malagasy tutor).
Share your thoughts!
Thomas