The waYao, or Yao, are a major nationality in both Malawi and Mozambique. The nationality's traditional homeland is between the Rovuma and Lugenda Rivers in northern Mozambique.

The Yao moved into what is now the southern region of Malawi around the 1830's, when they were active as slave traders for the Swahili Arab slave traders on the coast of Mozambique. Rich in culture, tradition and music, the Yao are primarily Muslim, and count among their famous progeny the former President of the Republic of Malawi, Bakili Muluzi.