Boubacar is a masculine given name of African origin, specifically from West Africa. It is predominantly used among people of Muslim faith and has gained global recognition due to its prevalence among the Fulani ethnic group, who are primarily found in Nigeria, Cameroon, Niger, and other neighboring countries.
The name Boubacar consists of two components: 'Bouba', which means 'to grow old' or 'age'; and 'kar', meaning 'power'. Thus, the full meaning of the name is often interpreted as 'aging with power' or 'growing old with strength'.
Historically, the name has been quite popular among Fulani leaders and rulers. One notable figure bearing this name is Boubacar Keïta I, who was the founder and first emperor of the Keïta Empire in present-day Mali during the 14th century.
Over time, the name Boubacar has spread beyond its traditional West African origins due to migration and globalization. Today, it can be found among communities with ties to Africa across various continents worldwide. Despite its growing popularity, Boubacar remains deeply rooted in its cultural heritage, serving as a symbol of strength and resilience for many who bear this proud name.
"The name Boubacar experienced significant growth in popularity over time, with the number of births nearly tripling from 8 in 1997 to a peak of 27 in 2016. However, since then, it has seen some fluctuations, with 20 births recorded in 2022 and 16 in 2023."