bambara

The Bambara, also known as Bamana or Bamanaa, are an ethnic group primarily in Mali, with smaller populations in neighboring countries such as Burkina Faso and Ivory Coast. They constitute the largest single ethnic group in Mali and are popularly associated with the Bamanankan language.

The Bambara language, or Bamanankan, is a Mande language and the most widely spoken language in Mali. It serves as a lingua franca in much of the country, and has several regional dialects. It is commonly written in the Latin script today; historically Ajami scripts were used for Arabic writing.

In the precolonial era, the Bambara established a powerful state centered at Ségou in present-day Mali, with rulers such as Bitòn Coulibaly. The empire facilitated trade between the Niger River and inland regions. Today, Bambara social organization is rooted in extended families and lineage groups; Islam is widespread, often practiced alongside traditional beliefs.

Agriculture is central to Bambara livelihoods, with millet and sorghum as staple crops, along with maize and groundnuts. The Bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranea) is a traditional legume crop valued for drought tolerance. The people are also known for crafts including metalwork, pottery, weaving, and ritual mask rites, reflecting a vibrant artistic heritage.

The term "Bambara" is commonly used in English; "Bamana" or "Baman" is closer to the endonym used by many speakers. In Mali, Bambara is widely spoken as a lingua franca across ethnic groups.