Table of Contents
African Haplogroups in Makrani Population: Genetic Evidence from Pakistan
Last Updated: August 12, 2025
Introduction
The Makrani people of Pakistan carry a remarkable genetic legacy — one that traces back to Africa’s east and west coasts. Recent mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) research reveals just how deep these connections go, uncovering maternal lineages shaped by centuries of migration and trade.
This article examines the presence of African haplogroups in the Makrani population, drawing on comprehensive DNA sequencing to reveal their origins and historical significance.
Thesis Excerpt & Analysis
“Based on identified haplotypes, the Makranis showed admixed mtDNA pool consisting of African haplogroups (28%), West Eurasian haplogroups (26%), South Asian haplogroups (24%), and East Asian haplogroups (2%)…” (p. ii).
Dominant African Haplogroups
“The high frequency of African mtDNA haplogroups in Makranis shows their origin with major genetic contribution from Mozambique Bantu from southeastern Africa and Fulani people of West-Central Africa as a result of African slave trade” (p. ii).
- Key haplogroups include L1, L2, and L3, found widely in sub-Saharan Africa.
- Historical linkages to Mozambique’s Bantu-speaking peoples and West-Central Africa’s Fulani communities.
Historical Context
“The presence of African mtDNA lineages in Makranis proves their recent origin as the Makrani haplotypes have also been observed in modern sub-Saharan African populations from Mozambique…” (p. 4).
- Arrival via maritime trade and the African slave trade along the Makran coast.
- Persistence of maternal African lineages despite generations of settlement in South Asia.
Unique Lineages
“Two haplotypes observed in the Makranis, both carrying a characteristic combination of two mutations in HVSII (154C and 194T) could not be confidently assigned to a known (sub) haplogroups… tentatively assigned to haplogroup named ‘M-154-194’” (p. ii).
- Potential undiscovered branches within African-derived macro-haplogroup M.
- Highlights the value of complete mitogenome sequencing for full classification.
Genetic Diversity Impact
“The high genetic diversity (0.9688) and high power of discrimination (0.9592)… reflects intense gene flow in the Makrani population” (p. ii).
- Admixture with West Eurasian and South Asian lineages further increases variation.
- African haplogroups remain a distinct and measurable component of the gene pool.
Conclusion
African haplogroups form a significant part of the Makrani maternal genetic heritage, preserving historical connections to both eastern and western Africa. This enduring legacy highlights centuries of cultural and genetic exchange across the Arabian Sea.
Disclaimer
Disclaimer: Some sentences have been lightly edited for SEO and readability. For the full, original research, please refer to the complete thesis PDF linked in the section above.
Source & Citations
Thesis Title: Genetic Characterization of Mitochondrial DNA in Makrani and Kalashi Population from Pakistan
Researcher: Muhammad Hassan Siddiqi
Guide (Supervisor): Prof. Dr. Tanveer Akhtar
University: University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
Year of Compilation: 2014
Excerpt Page Numbers: ii, 4, 55–58
Author Bio
Muhammad Hassan Siddiqi, PhD, is a zoologist specializing in human population genetics, forensic DNA analysis, and mitochondrial haplogroup research. He earned his doctorate at the University of the Punjab and has published extensively on genetic diversity in South Asian ethnic groups.
Do you think African haplogroup research could reshape how we understand South Asian history? Share your thoughts below.
Discover more from Professor Of Zoology
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
