Geopolitics of French in Francophone Sub-Saharan Africa

Book excerpt: This book is comprehensive study of the geopolitical, geolinguistic, and geostrategic challenges facing France and the French language in post-independence Francophone Sub-Saharan Africa. It shows that, in Francophone sub-Saharan Africa, France’s reputation and image are significantly damaged. France has been accused of neo-colonial behaviour because of its repeated political and military interference in the domestic affairs of sovereign countries, its support of unpopular governments, and its stranglehold over the finances, economies and resources of Francophone sub-Saharan Africa. The book also highlights that the challenges faced by the French language in the region are complex because of the significant use of African languages and the growing attraction of English. Using Senegal as a case study to examine language use, attitudes, and languages education in this region, the book shows that the Senegalese people, like most Francophone sub-Saharan Africans, are strongly attached to their own languages, they are loyal to the French language, and they admire the English language. This text will be of interest to scholars in French and Francophone studies, applied linguists, African studies, and policy studies.