Last Name Teke

The surname Teke is primarily of African origin, specifically associated with the Teké people who inhabited the Kingdom of Loango (now part of modern-day Gabon and the Republic of Congo) in Central Africa. They were known for their skills as traders and merchants along the Atlantic Coast during the 19th century. The name "Teke" is thought to have originated from a Bantu language, possibly referring to a social group or tribe within their community. However, it's important to note that the exact origin may vary based on individual family histories and genealogical research.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Teke

The meaning and origin of the last name Teke

The surname Teke originates from Africa, particularly among the Bantu-speaking populations in Central and West Africa. The name is associated with various ethnic groups such as the Fang people in Gabon and Equatorial Guinea, and the Beti people in Cameroon. In these cultures, the name Teke often serves as a clan or lineage identifier, reflecting shared ancestry or tribal affiliation. Historically, African surnames were not universally adopted across regions until colonial rule; however, in some communities like the Fang and Beti, naming practices were already established before European influence. The name Teke may have various meanings depending on the specific ethnic group, but generally, it can be interpreted as a designation of one's lineage or ancestry.

Geographical distribution of the last name Teke

The last name Teke is predominantly found among the Bantu-speaking people of Africa, particularly in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Angola, and Gabon. Historically, it has also been identified within the Central African Republic, Burundi, and Rwanda. The distribution patterns suggest that the name may have originated from the Teke ethnic group in the Kongo kingdom region of present-day DRC, although it is not exclusively tied to this group. Over time, migration and cultural assimilation have contributed to a dispersal of the name across the central African region. Additionally, diaspora populations of Central Africans can be found globally, including in Europe, North America, and Oceania, where the surname Teke may also be encountered.

Variants and spellings of the last name Teke

The surname Teke possesses several variations and spellings due to linguistic evolution, regional differences, and individual preference. Some of the common spelling variations include Teké, Tekeh, Tekhe, Tecke, Tekae, Techa, Teca, Tekka, and Tekha. These modifications may occur across different countries and ethnic groups, reflecting phonetic changes or cultural influences. Additionally, it is essential to note that certain variations may be associated with specific dialects, languages, or historical contexts. For instance, the name Teke might have French origins as a surname, while in some African cultures, it could originate from indigenous languages such as Yoruba or Wolof. It is important to consider these factors when researching or discussing this fascinating surname and its rich history.

Famous people with the last name Teke

Notable individuals bearing the surname Teke include:

1. Youssouf Fofana Teke (born 1986), Ivorian professional footballer, who plays for FK Krasnodar and the Ivory Coast national team as a defender.
2. André Teke (born 1972), Cameroonian politician, served as Minister of State, Minister of Defense and Security from May 2009 to April 2011.
3. Jean-François Tékiné-Goyat (1941–2006), French actor, known for his roles in films such as "The Four Musketeers" (1974) and "Zulu Dawn" (1979).
4. Pierre Teke (born 1935), Cameroonian politician who served as Prime Minister of Cameroon from April to December 1984, under President Paul Biya.
5. Bernard Teke (born 1956), French former professional footballer and current football manager. He played as a midfielder and represented France at international level.
6. Guy-Bernard Teke (born 1962), Cameroonian academic, diplomat, and politician, serving as Ambassador of Cameroon to the United Nations since January 2017.
7. Jean-Louis Teke (1954–2018), French professional footballer who played as a forward, known for his time at AS Monaco and Racing Paris.
8. Pierre Mounga Teke (born 1963), Cameroonian politician, served as the Minister of Higher Education from June 2009 to October 2011.

Genealogical research on the last name Teke

The Teke surname originates from Central Africa, specifically the Congo region, where it is predominantly found among the Teké people, an ethnic group residing in the Gabon-Congo border area. Historically, the Teké were known as skilled traders and artisans, contributing to the vibrant regional economy before European colonization. The name Teke can be traced back to the 17th century when the Kingdom of Loango was established. During this period, the Kingdom's rulers often conferred the title 'Teke' on their trusted officials and nobles, which later evolved into a surname. As a result of migrations, both forced and voluntary, individuals bearing the Teke name can now be found in various parts of Africa, as well as the diaspora, particularly in France, the United States, and Brazil.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "teke"
• 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 : 15 June 2025

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