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Last Name Obeng

What is the origin of the last name Obeng?

The last name "Obeng" is of Akan origin, which is primarily spoken in Ghana and the Ivory Coast. In Akan culture, "Obeng" is a common surname that is often given to the firstborn male child in the family. It is derived from the Akan word "Oben" which means "to be first" or "to lead." The name is typically passed down from generation to generation within the family.

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Obeng

The meaning and origin of the last name Obeng

The surname Obeng is of Ghanaian origin and is derived from the Akan language spoken in Ghana. The name is often found among the Akan people, particularly the Ashanti ethnic group. The name Obeng is said to be a variation of the name Ofori, which means "born on a Friday" in the Akan language. In Akan culture, the day of the week on which a person is born is believed to influence their character and fortunes. Therefore, the surname Obeng may have originated from an ancestor who was born on a Friday and was given this as a name to reflect their birth day and the attributes associated with it. Today, the surname Obeng remains a common name among the Akan people, both in Ghana and among the Ghanaian diaspora.

Geographical distribution of the last name Obeng

The last name Obeng originates from Ghana, primarily among the Akan ethnic group. It is a common surname among the Akan people, particularly among the Ashanti and Fante subgroups. As a result, the geographical distribution of the last name Obeng is most prominent in Ghana and among the Ghanaian diaspora in countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada. In these countries, individuals with the last name Obeng can be found in significant numbers, particularly in cities with larger Ghanaian communities. The cultural significance and prevalence of the Obeng surname among the Akan people have led to its continued use as a surname across generations, further solidifying its presence in both Ghana and various countries around the world with Ghanaian populations.

Variants and spellings of the last name Obeng

The last name Obeng can be spelled in various ways, including Obeang, Obang, Obong, Obeeng, and Openg. Additionally, variations of the name may include Oben, Oban, Oboeng, and Obeny. These variations in spelling can be due to differences in pronunciation, regional dialects, and transliterations from different languages. The name Obeng is of African origin, particularly Ghanaian, and is a common surname among the Akan people. It is often associated with the Fante and Ashanti tribes in Ghana. The name Obeng may have different meanings and interpretations depending on the specific dialect of the Akan language. Overall, the name Obeng and its various spellings and variations are a testament to the diverse and rich cultural landscape of the African continent.

Famous people with the last name Obeng

One famous person with the last name Obeng is Dr. Michael K. Obeng, a renowned plastic surgeon known for his philanthropic efforts in providing reconstructive surgery to children in developing countries through his non-profit organization, R.E.S.T.O.R.E Worldwide. Another notable individual with the last name Obeng is Oheneba Boachie-Adjei, a celebrated Ghanaian orthopedic surgeon based in New York City who specializes in spinal deformity and scoliosis surgeries. These two talented professionals have made significant contributions to the field of medicine and have earned recognition for their skills and dedication to helping others. Overall, the Obeng family name has become synonymous with excellence and compassion in the world of healthcare.

Genealogical research on the last name Obeng

The last name Obeng is of Ghanaian origin and is derived from the Akan people, specifically the Ashanti tribe. The Obeng surname is typically found among the Akan-speaking people in the central regions of Ghana. The name Obeng is a common surname among the Akan people, and it is often passed down from generation to generation. Genealogical research on the Obeng surname may reveal a rich history of the family's origins in Ghana and their traditional beliefs and practices. The Obeng family may also have connections to other Akan families with similar last names, such as Osei or Asante. Overall, tracing the genealogy of the Obeng surname can provide insights into the cultural heritage and ancestral roots of the family within the Akan community in Ghana.

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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