Last Name Ekambi-kingue

Ekambi-Kingué is a surname of Cameroonian origin. It likely comes from the Bassa people, one of the major ethnic groups in Cameroon, who inhabit regions along the Wouri River and its tributaries. The name could potentially be derived from a personal name or a place name within the Bassa language, although further research would be required to confirm this. However, it's important to note that surnames can also change over time due to various factors such as migration, assimilation, or simply personal preference, so the exact origin might not always be easily traced.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Ekambi-kingue

The meaning and origin of the last name Ekambi-kingue

The surname Ekambi-Kingué is of Cameroonian origin, specifically from the Bamiléké ethnic group. "Ekambi" is a common Bamiléké name meaning "leopard," while "Kingué" appears to be a personal or geographical name within the Bamiléké context. The Bamiléké people are one of the largest and most prominent ethnic groups in Cameroon, known for their rich culture and diverse traditions. The surname Ekambi-Kingué is likely a combination of two given names that have been passed down through generations, reflecting the matrilineal naming system common among many African cultures. Over time, these given names may have evolved due to various factors such as phonetic changes, spelling variations, or assimilation into other cultural contexts.

Geographical distribution of the last name Ekambi-kingue

The last name Ekambi-Kingué is predominantly found in Cameroon, particularly in the Southwest and Littoral regions, which are historically populated by Bamiléké and Douala ethnic groups respectively. It's also observed among the diaspora, particularly in France, due to migration from these regions. To a lesser extent, individuals with the surname Ekambi-Kingué can be found in other African countries, such as Gabon and the Republic of Congo, where similar ethnic groups reside. The name's presence is also noticeable in countries with significant Cameroonian populations like the United States, Canada, and Australia, due to migration and globalization.

Variants and spellings of the last name Ekambi-kingue

The surname Ekambi-Kingué has several variations and spellings. Some of these include: Ekambi Kingue, Ekambi-Kingué, Ekambi-Kingue, Ekambi Kinju, Ekambi Kingoué, and Ekambi Kinwé. These variations may occur due to differences in transcription, transliteration, or the use of different conventions for diacritical marks. It is important to note that the correct spelling can depend on factors such as regional dialects, personal preference, or the specific language being used (as the name is of Cameroonian origin).

Famous people with the last name Ekambi-kingue

Rene Ekini Kengué is a well-known Cameroonian footballer who plays as a striker for French Ligue 2 club Ajaccio and the Cameroon national team. He was born on March 3, 1994, in Yaounde, Cameroon, and started his professional career with Union Douala before moving to France to join Nantes in 2013. Ekini Kengué made his international debut for Cameroon in 2015 and has since represented the team at both the Africa Cup of Nations and the FIFA World Cup. He is known for his speed, strength, and finishing ability, and was named the Ligue 2 Player of the Year for the 2018-2019 season.

Another notable individual with the surname Ekambi-Kengué is Marie-Joseph Ekambi Kengué, a prominent Cameroonian politician who served as Minister of Higher Education from 2004 to 2009 and as Minister of Public Service and Administrative Reform from 2011 to 2013. He is a member of the Cameroon People's Democratic Movement (RDPC), the ruling party in Cameroon, and has been active in politics since the late 1980s. Ekambi-Kengué holds degrees in law and economics and has also served as the Rector of the University of Douala.

Genealogical research on the last name Ekambi-kingue

The Ekambi-Kingué surname is primarily found in Cameroon and Central Africa. It originates from the Bamileke ethnic group, one of the largest ethnic groups in Cameroon. The name "Ekambi" is a personal name meaning 'place of yams' or 'yam field', while "Kingué" may be derived from "kinguele," a plant species native to Central Africa.

The Bamileke people are known for their rich history and cultural traditions, including matrilineal descent and a strong emphasis on agriculture. The Ekambi-Kingué lineage can be traced back several generations, with many prominent figures in politics, arts, and academia bearing the name. Notable individuals include Jean-Marie Atangana Mboumoua, a Cameroonian politician and lawyer, and Pierre Ekane Kingue, a renowned Cameroonian artist.

Genealogical records for this surname are mainly found in local archives, oral histories, and church registers within Cameroon. Due to the matrilineal nature of Bamileke society, the family name often follows the mother's lineage, making it easier to trace through female ancestors.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "ekambi-kingue"
• Global distribution of the surname on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 29 July 2025

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