What is a Betsileo?

Definition: The Betsileo people are an ethnic group native to Madagascar. They comprise the second largest ethnic group in the country, after the Merina people.

Population: The Betsileo people are estimated to make up around 12% of the total population of Madagascar, which is approximately 2.6 million people.

Language: The Betsileo people speak a dialect of the Malagasy language, known as Betsileo.

Location: The Betsileo people primarily reside in the central highlands of Madagascar, in the regions of Fianarantsoa, Amoron'i Mania, and Vatovavy-Fitovinany.

Culture: The Betsileo people have a rich and vibrant culture that is influenced by both ancient Malagasy traditions and French colonial influences. They are known for their traditional music and dance, intricate weaving and craftsmanship, and elaborate funeral ceremonies called "famadihana".

Economy: The Betsileo people primarily practice agriculture, with rice being their main staple crop. They also engage in livestock farming and handicrafts.

Religion: The majority of the Betsileo people are Christians, with Protestantism and Roman Catholicism being the dominant faiths. There are also a small number of Muslims and practitioners of traditional animist beliefs.