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Last Name Malaba

What is the origin of the last name Malaba?

The surname "Malaba" is of African origin, specifically East Africa. It is widespread in Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania. It could be derived from a local word or term meaning "hawk" or "bird of prey" in one of the languages of the region.

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Malaba

The meaning and origin of the last name Malaba

The family name Malaba is of African origin, specifically from the East African region. It is rooted in the culture and languages of this region, and can have different meanings depending on the different ethnic groups and local languages. Malaba can derive from one of the many African words that mean things like "force" or "warrior", suggesting an origin related to qualities of power or courage. It is also possible that the name Malaba is linked to a toponym, a name derived from a place, such as a village or city in Africa, thus indicating the geographical origin of the family. Over time and migration, the name Malaba has spread to other parts of the world, preserving its original heritage and meanings.

Geographical distribution of the last name Malaba

The Malaba family name is mainly concentrated in Africa, particularly in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where it is most common. It is also found in Angola, Zambia, Uganda and Kenya. The African diaspora has also contributed to its dissemination in other parts of the world, including Europe and the United States. However, its presence in these countries remains a minority compared to Africa. As a typical African name, Malaba is carried by individuals of various tribal and ethnic origins, reflecting the cultural diversity of the continent. The exact origin of the Malaba name remains uncertain, but it is likely to be related to a particular geographic area or physical characteristic. With its strong presence in Africa, the family name Malaba bears witness to the history and diversity of the continent.

Variants and spellings of the last name Malaba

The Malaba surname can also be spelled in different ways, such as Malabar, Malabre, Malabé or Malabat. These variations may come from different geographical regions or be the result of linguistic evolution over time. Malaba is a family name of African origin that can have different meanings depending on cultures. It is possible that the different spellings and variations of this name are also related to migrations and fusions of cultures. Whatever spelling is used, the Malaba family name is worn by individuals and families around the world, each bringing its own history and meaning to this surname.

Famous people with the last name Malaba

The name Malaba is uncommon, but it is worn by talented and famous personalities. One of them is Zacharie Malaba, a Congolese artist known for his talent in painting and sculpture. His captivating and original works earned him an international reputation, exposing his creations in prestigious galleries around the world. Zacharie Malaba is appreciated for her ability to convey deep emotions through her art, using vibrant colors and abstract forms to express her unique vision of the world. His work was praised by critics and he is considered one of the greatest contemporary artists of his generation. Zacharie Malaba continues to push the limits of creativity and inspire many other artists through her innovative and captivating work.

Genealogical research on the last name Malaba

Genealogical research on the name Malaba dates back to West Africa, particularly in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This name could have specific ethnic or tribal origins, which could go back centuries. Research to trace the history of the Malaba family could include interviews with family members, consultation of family archives, and searches of vital records and historical records. It is possible that the name Malaba has been anglicized or francized over time, which could complicate the search. However, with perseverance and adequate resources, it is possible to trace the history and origins of the Malaba family to its deepest roots.

Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
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 : 11 April 2025

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