The Yao language is a Bantu language spoken primarily by the Yao people in Malawi, Mozambique, and Tanzania. It is part of the larger Niger-Congo language family and has several dialects, reflecting the diverse regions where it is spoken. Yao is used in daily communication, cultural practices, and traditional storytelling. The language has a rich oral tradition, and efforts are being made to promote literacy in Yao through educational programs and written materials, helping to preserve its unique cultural heritage.