Mankono Department was created in 1980 as a first-level subdivision via a split-off from Séguéla Department.[3] Using current boundaries as a reference, from 1980 to 2005 the department occupied the same territory as Béré Region.
In 1997, regions were introduced as new first-level subdivisions of Ivory Coast; as a result, all departments were converted into second-level subdivisions. Mankono Department was included in Worodougou Region.
In 2011, districts were introduced as new first-level subdivisions of Ivory Coast. At the same time, regions were reorganised and became second-level subdivisions and all departments were converted into third-level subdivisions. At this time, Mankono Department became part of Béré Region in Woroba District.
In 2012, Mankono Department was divided again when two sub-prefectures were split-off to form Dianra Department.[4]