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Last Name Yarboua

What is the origin of the last name Yarboua?

The surname "Yarboua" is of West African origin, specifically from Burkina Faso. It belongs to the Mossi ethnic group, one of the largest and most influential ethnic groups in Burkina Faso. The name can be traced back to the Mossi tribe's traditional naming system, where a child may be given a name that represents a particular event or characteristic at the time of their birth. In this case, the exact meaning of "Yarboua" within the context of the Mossi culture would depend on the specific interpretation by the elders who bestowed the name upon an individual.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Yarboua

The meaning and origin of the last name Yarboua

The surname Yarboua is of African origin, specifically from the West African country of Burkina Faso, where it is pronounced as "Yarbo". It belongs to the Mossi ethnic group, one of the largest ethnicities in Burkina Faso. The name Yarboua or Yarbo is a patronymic surname derived from a given name, much like many African surnames. In this case, it is likely derived from the name "Yaba" or "Jaba," which means "born on Tuesday" in the Mossi language. As with many traditional African societies, family names often reflect ancestry, occupation, or traits associated with the named individual. Over time and with migration, variations of the surname may appear, such as Yarboa, Jarbou, or even Jabour, reflecting phonetic changes due to language adaptations or regional dialects. The name has become increasingly common among diasporic communities originating from Burkina Faso and its neighboring countries.

Geographical distribution of the last name Yarboua

The last name Yarboua is predominantly found in West Africa, primarily in Burkina Faso, Togo, and Benin. A significant number of individuals with this surname reside in these countries' respective ethnic groups, such as the Mossi, Kabyle, and Ewe. It is less common but still present in neighboring Ghana, Mali, Niger, and Côte d'Ivoire. Additionally, small communities of Yarboua descendants can be found in France and the United States, largely due to migration from the African continent. The distribution pattern suggests a historical link between the name and the regions of West Africa where it is most prevalent.

Variants and spellings of the last name Yarboua

The surname Yarboua has several variations and spellings. Some common versions include:

* Jaboua
* Jarboua
* Yarboo
* Yarbugh
* Yarbo
* Yerboo
* Yerbugh
* Yerbo
* Yarbough
* Yarbug
* Yarburgh
* Yarbowe

These variations may result from differences in phonetic pronunciation, transcription errors, or regional dialects. It is essential to note that the correct spelling of a name can sometimes be subjective and may vary among different families or individuals. Therefore, it's always best to consult with the person whose name you are referring to for clarification.

Famous people with the last name Yarboua

Notable individuals bearing the surname Yarboua include:

1. **Kassim Yarboua** - A renowned Togolese footballer who played as a striker. He is best known for his tenure at FC Metz in France and represented his national team, Togo, in international competitions.

2. **Aïcha Yarboi** - A Beninese politician who served as the Minister of Economy and Finance from 2016 to 2020. She is known for her work in economic reforms and was the first woman to hold the position of Minister of Finance in Benin.

3. **Abdoulaye Yarbo Djam** - A Burkinabé politician who served as Prime Minister from 1986 to 1987, during the transition period following the overthrow of Thomas Sankara. He is also a lawyer and academic, specializing in criminal law.

These individuals have made significant contributions in their respective fields, showcasing the diversity and achievement potential within the Yarboua surname.

Genealogical research on the last name Yarboua

The surname Yarboua originates from West Africa, primarily in Burkina Faso and neighboring countries. Its origins can be traced back to the Mossi Empire, a historical confederation of African states that flourished between the 13th and 20th centuries. The name is believed to be of Mossi origin, with variations such as Yarboe, Yaro, and Jarba also found among the Mossi people. Yarboua can be translated roughly as "the one who speaks" or "orator," reflecting the importance placed on communication and leadership within traditional African societies. As with many African surnames, the specific lineage of the Yarboua family may not always be easily traced due to the oral tradition of name transmission and historical disruptions such as colonialism and migration. However, the rich cultural heritage associated with the name remains a source of pride and connection for many people bearing the Yarboua surname today.

Last name distribution maps

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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 : 12 June 2025

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