Identity
The Bamana
people are the largest ethnic group in Mali, yet spread as far as Senegal,
Burkina Faso, and Ivory Coast. A total of 4 million are found throughout
West Africa, 3 million within Mali itself. Their language,
Bambara, is often the trade language for smaller people groups.
Location
The Bambara People
Group Team concentrates on the Segou Basin - a valley extending the length
of the Niger River from Bamako to Segou. The landscape
is characterized by flat plains with grasses and shrubs. Large baobab trees
dot every horizon.
History
While Europe
was experiencing the Dark Ages of maleducation, Mali was the center of
knowledge for the world. From Timbuctou and the Segou Empire came most
innovation in Math and Science. Their kingdoms were a series of conquers
and revolts. Later when the French attempted colonization, the Bamana
(Ban - refuse, Mana - master) were quick to resist.
Political
Situation
The government
of Mali is a republic consisting of a president, prime minister, and council
of ministers. Presidential elections are held every five years and are
open to all. The current president is Alpha Oumar KONARE.
Economy
While it
is not uncommon to see herders among the Bambara, this role is traditionally
set aside for the Fulani people group. The Bambara, rather, farm millet,
tobacco, and cassava. Recent drought and desertification have hurt an already
struggling economy.
Religion
The Bambara
people are traditionally fetishers, however the coming of Arab traders
brought the spread of Islam. Now, 75% are professed Muslims, yet folk religion
is interwoven. 23% still openly practice fetish. The remaining few are
Christian, mainly Catholic. There is political freedom of religion, however,
family ties and tradition bind tightly.
Society
Roles, sources
of authority, and relationships among the Bambara are very complex. However,
everyone knows their place within the culture. Some of this is taught through
stories by the elders, some is simply observed. Generally, the Bambara
are an extremely generous and honoring people. At the same time, they are
characterized by openness and enthusiasm.
Culture
The Bambara are
oral learners. Within their culture are griots, singers or simply praisers.
The griots will sing the history and praise of the family, often while
playing the cora (a Malian harp/guitar). Depending on the festivity, a
variety of dances and drums can be seen. Bambara crafts include cloth weaving,
pottery, fabric dying, mat or basket weaving, and marionettes.
Identity
History
Economy
Society
