The Bambara language, also known as Bamanankan, is a Manding language spoken primarily by the Bambara people of Mali in West Africa. It is one of the most widely spoken languages in Mali and serves as a lingua franca for various ethnic groups in the country.

Bambara belongs to the larger Manding language group, which is part of the broader Mande language family. This language family is predominantly found in West Africa, and it includes languages spoken in countries like Mali, Guinea, Senegal, and Ivory Coast.

The Bambara language has a rich oral tradition and a growing body of written literature. It is written in a script based on the Latin alphabet, although historically, it was often transcribed using Arabic script.

Bambara plays a crucial role in the cultural and social life of the Bambara people. It is used for communication in various aspects of daily life, including at home, in the market, and during cultural events. Additionally, it is an essential tool for preserving and passing down cultural heritage, including oral literature, proverbs, and historical accounts.