What language is spoken in Zanzibar?

The official and national language of Zanzibar is Kiswahili (also known as the Tanzanian language), however many other languages are spoken across the country. Tanzania's principal languages are Kiswahili, English, Maasai, and Meru.

Tanzania also has a diverse range of ethnic languages spoken by various communities. The coastal region speaks a dialect of Kiswahili that is distinct from the rest of the country. Former Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete was fluent in eight languages. Kiswahili is the main language of education and institutional communication, as well as the language of instruction in schools.

English is also taught in secondary school and is utilized as an instructional language in several higher education institutes. Many individuals also obtain English teaching through adult education programs.

Kiswahili has recently been advocated as a linguistic franca among East African countries. It is the African Union's and other international organizations' official working language.