Banyankole

The Banyankole, also spelled Banyankore or Nyankole, are an ethnic group in Uganda, concentrated in the western part of the country in the Ankole sub-region and surrounding districts. They are part of the larger Bantu-speaking population of the Great Lakes region and speak Runyankole, a language in the Nyoro–Tooro subgroup. The Banyankole share cultural and linguistic ties with neighboring groups such as the Banyoro and Bakiga, and many communities have been part of an interconnected western Ugandan cultural landscape for centuries.

Language and identity: Runyankole is the core language of daily life for most Banyankole, with regional dialectal variation. In addition to Runyankole, many speakers use English or Swahili in education, commerce, and travel. Education and literacy have grown significantly since Uganda’s independence, contributing to broader participation in national life while preserving traditional customs and social structures.

Society and economy: Traditionally, Banyankole society included two major social strands: the Bahima, a pastoralist or cattle-herding group, and the Bairu, predominantly farmers. The exchange of cattle and agricultural produce has long shaped social status and inter-group relations, though contemporary households often combine farming with other livelihoods. Agriculture remains central, with crops such as bananas (matooke), maize, millet, and beans common across the region.

History and modern status: The Banyankole were part of the historically prominent Kingdom of Ankole, ruled by a monarch known as the Omugabe. Under colonial and post-colonial governments, the formal authority of the kingdom was reduced and underwent political changes in the 20th century. Today, the Banyankole are often described in terms of their language, culture, and regional ties within Uganda, maintaining strong cultural traditions alongside participation in national life.