Last Name Mafara

The surname Mafara is believed to have origins in Portugal, where it is derived from a place name or an occupational name. In this case, Mafara may be a variation of the place name Maia, which is found in several regions of Portugal, or it could be related to the occupation of someone who worked in a mill (from the Latin 'molendinarius'). However, it's important to note that surnames can have various origins and multiple spellings due to historical factors such as migration and changes in record-keeping practices. To confirm the specific origin of your particular Mafara lineage, further genealogical research may be required.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Mafara

The meaning and origin of the last name Mafara

The surname Mafara is primarily of African origin, specifically from West Africa, particularly Nigeria. It belongs to the Yoruba ethnic group. The name is derived from various sources, with one possible interpretation being that it comes from the Yoruba word "Mafa," meaning "great" or "abundant." Another theory suggests that it could be a locative surname, originating from a specific place named Mafara. However, without specific historical records, it's challenging to confirm the exact origin of the name for any individual bearer of the name. The name has since been carried by African diaspora communities worldwide due to migration and colonization.

Geographical distribution of the last name Mafara

The surname Mafara is predominantly found in West Africa, particularly in Nigeria and Cameroon. In Nigeria, it is most prevalent in the southern states such as Rivers, Delta, and Edo, where the Ijaw and Itsekiri ethnic groups are concentrated. In Cameroon, it can be found among the Baka Pygmies of the Southwest region and the Beti-Pahouin communities in the Centre region. Additionally, there have been reports of individuals with the surname Mafara in other African countries like Ghana, Togo, and Congo, suggesting possible migration or spread of the name from its primary regions. Outside Africa, small populations bearing the surname Mafara can be found in countries with significant African diaspora communities such as the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.

Variants and spellings of the last name Mafara

The surname Mafara can be found with various spelling variations due to differences in regional dialects, transcription errors, and individual preferences over time. Some of these variations include Maffara, Maafara, Mafarra, Mafhara, Maffhara, and Mahfara. These variations are primarily observed among individuals of African descent, particularly in countries like Nigeria and Ghana, where the name may have originated from a local language or been influenced by European naming conventions during colonial times. It is important to note that the correct spelling can depend on the specific family lineage or individual preference.

Famous people with the last name Mafara

Notable individuals with the surname Mafara include:

1. Bongani Mafara - A professional footballer who played as a midfielder for clubs like Kaizer Chiefs and SuperSport United in South Africa. He also represented the South African national team at various levels.

2. Tinashe Eric Mafara - Known professionally as Tinashe, is an American singer, songwriter, actress, and model. She rose to prominence in 2012 with her extended play "Reality Check".

3. Mthokozisi Mafara - A South African actor who is best known for his roles in television series such as Sokhulu & Partners, Isibaya, and Ring of Lies.

4. Simbarashe Mafara - A Zimbabwean professional footballer who plays as a midfielder for the Zimbabwe national team and the South African club Bloemfontein Celtic.

5. Charmaine Mafara - A Zimbabwean model, beauty pageant titleholder, and television presenter who was crowned Miss World Zimbabwe 2013 and represented her country at Miss World 2013.

Genealogical research on the last name Mafara

The Mafara surname is believed to have origins rooted in Africa, specifically in West Africa. According to some sources, it originates from the Fula people, also known as Fulani or Peul, a nomadic ethnic group predominantly residing in West Africa. The name Mafara is thought to be derived from the Fula language, with possible meanings such as "ruler" or "great". However, it's important to note that surnames did not exist universally across Africa prior to colonialism, and many African names were adopted or changed during the slave trade. The Mafara name can also be found in other regions, particularly among diaspora communities, due to migration and the blending of cultures.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "mafara"
• 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 : 25 July 2025

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