south africa surnames south africa surnames

This name is mostly given to sons by the hopeful family. This category has the following 9 subcategories, out of 9 total. Any information you provide to us via this website may be placed by us on servers located in countries outside the EU if you do not agree to such placement, do not provide the information. 95. Abiodun Origin: Yoruba. Tersoo It has its origin in the Tiv language, and means fathers love. 24. It has its roots in the Shona group of Zimbabwe, and means fulfilment of a pledge or a promise. Asa directly translates to shield, so Alasa means lord or owner of the shield. The Africans really delve into their culture, language, and ethnicity to bring out tremendous names. A well-liked Yoruba male name, Abioye means born into royalty or the son of royalty. 92. Several African names and surnames, when translated, often make full sentences. It is suitable for boys. We recommend that these ideas are used as inspiration, that ideas are undertaken with appropriate adult supervision, and that each adult uses their own discretion and knowledge of their children to consider the safety and suitability. Another name that implores to the child is Banmeke, which means hold or sustain the rafter of the house with me. 29. Meaning: He came in a joyful time or the king/crown/royalty meets joy., 11. Submitted names are contributed by users of this website. Sandbox Learning is part of Sandbox & Co., a digital learning company. Tawfiq Means an opportunity or chance to gain knowledge or succeed in life. Meaning: Destined for greatness. Generally used as a masculine name, it means we have increased or multiplied or we are many among the Shona group of Zimbabwe. Many of the population here practice Islam, hence there are a lot of names that originate from the Arabic language too. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); Totally Wonderful African Surnames and their Astonishing Meanings. Of Yoruba origin, the name means the crown is good. Igwe Among the Igbo groups, Igwe means heaven, which is considered the highest realm of existence. Well send you tons of inspiration to help you find a hidden gem in your local area or plan a big day out. Abebe (Ethiopian origin) means "blossom" or "flower". The rare surname means he says and does as he said he would do, and is considered to be a masculine name. 47. Quansah is one of the many surnames that makes reference to religion and a higher power. More News. Meziane is a variation. At Kidadl we pride ourselves on offering families original ideas to make the most of time spent together at home or out and about, wherever you are in the world. Your use of the site indicates your agreement to be bound by our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Thank you! The research found that in Africa, most surnames are connected to geographic origin, occupation, lineage or personal characteristics.One surname-type unique to the continent is the praise-name, which expresses character traits or other admirable attributes. Conteh is a common last name adopted throughout the African mainland. 17. A name that acknowledges a divine concession is Chukwunyelu, which means God gives in Igbo. 46. Igwe (Igbo origin) meaning "heaven". We have listed 100 surnames of African origin in this article. This does not influence our choices. 45. 91. It is important to know that there are over 10 official languages in South Africa. In this context, the father can also mean God. Mensah is a common last name used by families residing in various parts of Africa, such as South Africa. Izem (Berber origin) from the Tamazight word which means lion. Meaning: Unknown. Achebe (Nigerian origin) meaning "the goddess protects," from the Igbo people of Nigeria. It is now common in South Africa. It means one who has many people to call for help, and is considered typically male. But 32 years later the late Laurent Kabila kicked Mobutu out, and re-baptised the country the Democratic Republic of Congo. 1. Meaning: Unknown. Its other variants are Wonai and Vonai. This name is also predominantly given to boys. It also means the next to be crowned among the Yoruba speaking groups. 2022 Sandbox Networks Inc. All rights reserved. It is suitable for boys and girls. Maduabuchi means Humans are not God. What I like about this name is it reflects which tribal group of South Africa I come from. It is actually an oxymoron, a religious friend has suggested I change my name BUT, why should I? Folorunsho One of the many surnames that appreciate the divine is a Yoruba name Folorunsho, which means under Gods protection. It is suitable for both boys and girls. Daneil Negussie Aberra, Ethiopia/USA, What makes a person is his/her identity. If you purchase using the buy now button we may earn a small commission. 93. It has its origin in the Shona groups of Zimbabwe. Chidubem Origin: Nigerian (Igbo). West Africa is home to some of the most popular African last names. (Both proud and amused!). Its other variants are Orjea, Orjee, Orjey, Orjie, and Orjy. 27. 5. Such a family name is always very outstanding and popular in such a community. Boitumelo (Botswanan origin) means joy. Kidadl is supported by you, the reader. Mohammed Praise-worthiness and laudability, 57. This name is primarily masculine. 15. Cisse (Madinka origin) meaning "professor". How big and representative is the sample. But by the grace of God, my first and middle names are not only African but reflect the ethnic origin of where I know my maternal ancestors come from, the Mandinka people. South Africa is full of so many diverse people. Buhle: the name is used mostly by the Xhosa clan to mean handsome. You can find some beautiful and popular African last names from countries in eastern Africa. 7. The above list includes all the meaningful surnames with their unique meanings. Among the Xhosa and Ndebele groups of people, Buhle is a popular name which means handsome or beautiful. The one-stop destination for all the unique and amazing African surnames. Quansah Origin: Ghanaian. Gowon Rooted in the Tiv language, Gowon means the rainmaker. 75. In May 2003 I took a genetics test and found out that Im a direct descendent of the Mandinkas maternally. It means descendant of the lion clan, and is suitable for both genders. Dawit (Amharic origin) means beloved. Accordingly, all letters that make up these last names must be duly considered and put into perspective while trying to pronounce them. 23. Meghnagi (Libyan origin) could refer to zion. BR, USA, I am responding to Vince Gaineys point Why are African Christians so ashamed of their Christian names in comparison to Muslims who have pride in their Arabic Islamic names. I think Vince is confusing European with Christian. An Igbo surname, Ala means land, while neme means doing something. Jlassi (Tunisian origin) means loyalty or sincerity. Anyone using the information provided by Kidadl does so at their own risk and we can not accept liability if things go wrong. Franklin Ayodele is a famous Nigerian footballer who has this common surname. Chaka: This name is mostly known across many nations as it came to prominence as a result of the fame of Yvonne Chaka Chaka, a singer and entertainer. Rooted in the Tiv language, Gowon means the rainmaker. Mahlangu meaning "one who carries the shield". Okeke is an Igbo last name common in many ethnoreligious communities in South Africa. Meaning: Earnest provider.. Owusu It is an Akan male surname which means strong-willed and determined. It is considered a male name. It is usually given to boys. Negga (Ethiopian origin) means "the night has passed". Meaning: Mercy. Kidadl provides inspiration to entertain and educate your children. Dalitso (Malawi origin) means blessing. 88. There are also hundreds of languages spoken on the continent, providing endless interesting meanings of each last name. It is home to many ethnic groups and tribes. So I would say that perhaps one would find God in a lot more African names than one would suspect. Luthuli (Zulu origin) meaning "the month of dust". Magombo Swahili, African, Swazi (Rare) Meaning unknown, possibly related from the fore name of the same name. Get high-quality PDF version by clicking below. It has its roots in Yoruba and it means a lot of wealth. The Xhosa as well Zulu languages have 3 distincts clicks X, C and Q but Xhosas use more clicks than Zulus in their everyday conversations. One of the most popular and optimistic Xhosa names is Gcobani, which means be joyful. 81. Find your South African last name, meaning, and origins. Many Swahili last names pay homage to the day or time that a person was born. Nnadi is an extremely common surname used in much African community. The Xhosa people use their family name or clan name. Originating from the Ibibio group, Akpabio means leader, noble or prime. It is common both as a surname and a nickname. Hassan Origin: An Arabic name found throughout Morocco. There is so much authenticity with their naming practices. Usually used as a given name and the last name, Olatunji means wealth awakes again. 23. This name is often given to boys. 70. Meaning: Bushbuck.. 77. Hamadache (Algerian origin) the meaning is unknown. Kahinu (Swahili origin) means clergyman. Its variant is Chike, which means Gods power. Olatunji Usually used as a given name and the last name, Olatunji means wealth awakes again. 4. Sefako meaning "hail". In abreviation ABUCHI for my Western folks, short and simple isnt it. 89. Kidadl has lots of great names articles to inspire you. Bankole is one of the few surnames that sets a directive for the people who pronounce the name, which is why it is known to be an assertive last name. We will always aim to give you accurate information at the date of publication - however, information does change, so its important you do your own research, double-check and make the decision that is right for your family. Many African last names reference wealth and the aristocracy. This name is also predominantly given to boys. The name can be translated as fullness of power. Die Afrikaner-familienaamboek : sketse en besonderhede omtrent die voorgeslagte van bekende Afrikanerfamilies An alphabetical list of South African surnames and early genealogy connected therewith. 30. 74. 88. This also doesn't include some of the well-known tribes like Igbo and Yoruba. Elmalik (Arabic origin) means the King, often found in the countries of northern Africa. Trilingual Rajnandini has also published work in a supplement for 'The Telegraph', and had her poetry shortlisted in Poems4Peace, an international project. 98. 10. These people bear some of the most uncommon first names and surnames. Faraji is a common Swahili last name that is loved by all due to its sweetness and candor. What we suggest is selected independently by the Kidadl team. Playing with names really is part of many African cultures. Abimbola (Nigerian origin) meaning "born into wealth," the name is specific to the Yoruba people of western Nigeria. Most Popular African Last Names on FamilyEducation: Ba, Ballo, Dial, First Trimester To-Do List: Take Care of Yourself. Buthelezi (Zulu origin) meaning "chief". Mokrani (Berber origin) refers to a town in Algeria. Information on our advertising guidelines can be found. If you are looking for African surnames for your kid, you are at the right place. Etienam Having its roots in Ibibio, the surname or nickname Etienam means a doer of good or benevolent. Abara Origin: West African (Igbo). Sometimes also a given name for boys. Zammit (Tunisian origin) means servant of. The History of South African Surnames. Many last names in South Africa make references to royalty. Ouyahia (Berber origin) means son of Yahia. One of such names is a Yoruba surname Falade, which means god of divination has intermingled with royalty. From Latin praetor meaning "leader". 89. Kimathi Origin: Kenyan. 19. It is suitable for boys and girls. It is a conventional surname across various African people and means one who is born on orie market day. We also link to other websites, but are not responsible for their content. 2. Mostly given to the men as a surname or a given name, it means my fathers land or my ancestral home. Yeboah meaning "helping others". It is considered to be primarily male. 23. Any child named after the above names is a blessed one whom the community expect to live up to the due reputation e.g has leadership qualities and being honest. Pages in category "Afrikaans-language surnames" The following 148 pages are in this category, out of 148 total. Imari is a variant of the African name Imani, meaning loyal.. His reason was to rid the country of all of Mobutus influence and he felt a change of name was the way to do it. You e-mail me the surnames you are interested in, and I send you the e-mail address(es) of the person(s) who are researching these surnames for their own family history. She writes baby name articles for MomJunction. 62. 93. 36. 65. If you want your babys name to be promising, then, this is the perfect name to choose. 47. An optimistic surname and first name that hopes for prosperity, Adebisi means the king/crown/royalty produced more. Akinyemi (Yoruba origin) meaning "destined to be a warrior". 79. Abioye (Nigerian origin) means "born into royalty," from the Yoruba ethnic group. We can be baptised another Kenyan/African and more meaningful name than being another of the somewhat bland Peters and Janes of the world. Ouahmed (Berber origin) meaning son of Ahmed. We recognise that not all activities and ideas are appropriate and suitable for all children and families or in all circumstances. Quansah (Ghanaian origin) meaning "God is watching". Dogo (Hausa origin) meaning "little". Many African last names reference wealth and the aristocracy. Olowe -It shows the unity of the families in the Yoruba groups. The surname Keita gained prominence after the rule of the Keita dynasty from the 11th to the 17th century. This is why many last names technically have different origins. The Igbo people do not use family names. Onai Having its origin in the Shona group of Zimbabwe, the name means a call to observe or to see that which has happened. Find out how surnames are ranked in popularity, how many people in the United States of America bear a particular name, and how the statistics change between 1990 and 2000 US Censuses. Read for more information. We will always aim to give you accurate information at the date of publication - however, information does change, so its important you do your own research, double-check and make the decision that is right for your family. Stephen Biko was an African nationalist who was at the forefront of the internal resistance to the apartheid movement. Afumba (Lozi origin) meaning "when they plan". Omenuko The surname acknowledges the helpfulness or resourcefulness of a person. This name is primarily masculine. Abbas Origin: An Arabic name found throughout Algeria. 84. Kidadl is independent and to make our service free to you the reader we are supported by advertising. 48. Adby Origin: Nigerian (Yoruba). Ele It is common both as a surname and a nickname. When you buy through the links on our site we may earn a commission. Thanks! Name and surname: NE NTULI STUDENT NUMBER: 60283858 UNIQUE NUMBER: 888570 MODULE: PVL 2601 ASSINGMENT 1 SEMESTER 2 2020 Question 1 a. 28. 91. 58. Gebreyes (Ethiopian origin) means servant of. 52. Malan. 25. If you purchase using the buy now button we may earn a small commission. This name has been brought to the big screen all over the world through a fictional character Okoye in a cultural phenomenon, the Black Panther movie. Achebe (Nigerian origin) meaning "the goddess protects," from the Igbo people of Nigeria. Owusu meaning "strong-minded and determined". 70. 34. Agu (Nigerian origin) means "tiger" and is a popular Igbo name. Faraji (Swahili origin) meaning "consolation". You contact them to see if you share . 40. 6. - wife of Ralph Patrick Murray (1): 3. 90. 20. Nkosi (Nguni origin) meaning "king". It means one who has many people to call for help, and is considered typically male. I am certain that many other cultures equally create such names. It is usually accepted as a male name. 51. Actually just after I was born, peace was restored in my family. Umburter is one of the most prominent African last names from the Tiv language. 26. 44. 29. Commonly used as a male name in Nigeria, Anenih means God bearing name. 43. The name can be translated as fullness of power. Elya (Ethiopian origin) meaning my God is Yahweh. Ababio Origin: Ghanaian. It means one who is invulnerable to dark magic. Answer (1 of 4): Most of these surnames are not Hispanic at all, but Lusophone (Portuguese). There are ten countries found in this part of the continent, not counting the island of Madagascar. Chifundo (Malawi origin) means mercy in the Chewa language. Zodwa Dlamini is the Vice Chancellor for Research at the MUT (Mangosuthu University of Technology), a residential university located in Durban, South Africa. Common South African surnames. 86. If you have a South African last name, you may find it in one of the categories below. This name is also masculine in essence. 30. 96. It means sturdy or mighty tree. I bet you were unable to make out a few of their pronunciation. Jelani -One of the given and last names for boys among the Swahili tribes, Jelani means mighty or full of strength. Interesting article, where did you source the data this research is based on. Please note that Kidadl is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon. This list may not reflect recent changes. 8. Mangosuthu Buthelezi was an African tribal leader and one of the founders of the IFP (Inkatha Freedom Party). Adebisi is one of the many African names that mean king. Among the Igbo groups, Igwe means heaven, which is considered the highest realm of existence. It took me most of my life to come to this understanding about my name. 87. 7. The name is an invocation to Ijebu, the god of wealth. Mbatha meaning "protector". Your partner in parenting from baby name inspiration to college planning. It means one who is born during the festival or war. Lupondo South African. Boujettif (Archaic origin) means the family of the son of the clever head. Here is a list of famous South African last names and meanings. Sekou Nkrumah was named after Guineas first President Sekou Toure, while Gamal Nkrumah got his name from Egyptian President Gamal Abdel Nasser. When my mother was pregnant, she was always fighting with my father and his family; she was in this constant state of depression. Hailing from the ethnic group Yoruba, Abiodun is often used both as a surname and a first name. The surname acknowledges the helpfulness or resourcefulness of a person. Copyright 2011 - 2023 MomJunction Private Limited. It is usually given to boys. Back to top-1. Ganizani (Botswanan origin) means think in Chewa. In many languages of Ethiopia for example, typical names are compounded of the divinity and some aspect of it. Onai (Shona origin) meaning "call to observe". Obama Popularized by former US president Barack Obama, the name has its origin in the Luo dialect, and means to lean or bend. Adeleke (Yoruba origin) meaning "the crown triumphed". 33. Sandbox Learning is part of Sandbox & Co., a digital learning company. Mary Twala was an artist who started her career by starring in 'Generations', a South African TV series. Zulu (Zulu origin) meaning "heaven". 83. Among the Hausa tribes of Nigeria, Babangida means the master of the house. You need to be quite careful and focused to be able to produce these African last names as they should be. Here you will find some great Nigerian last names, like Abimbola which means "born into wealth" and Obi, which means "heart". Fatsani (Botswanan origin) means be meek in Chewa. 53. Other variants are Efua, Afua, and its male version is Kofi. Here is a list of the best and most common African last names from South Africa along with their meaning. Zadzisai (Shona origin) meaning "fulfillment of a promise". Boipelo (Botswanan origin) means proud. 83. Examples are Afrikaans, Xhosa, Zulu, Ndebele, and Tswana to name a few. The surname with Yoruba origin means god has rewarded me for my sufferings. Another name that originates from the Shona group is Zivai, which means you must know. Whilst this is a list of last names, many of the last names on this list have also been used as first names too. Her love for content creation made her pivot her career from science to writing. Madhurima takes a keen interest in parenting and lifestyle. Uduike (Igbo origin) meaning "full of power". Keita It is a Malian surname, which means blessing. 16. FamilyEducation does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Obi -A mainstream name among the Igbo surnames in Nigeria, Obi means 'heart'. Mandela. This also doesnt include some of the well-known tribes like Igbo and Yoruba. Makeba meaning "precious jewel". It is usually considered a male name. The northern part of Africa, according to the UN, is made up of seven countries. Meaning: One who possesses a clever head. Ndiaye Among the citizens of Senegal, Ndiaye is a ferocious surname as well as a given name. 35. Buhari meaning "is a man". Dlamini: Another among South African names of Etswana origin that means royalty. Chidozie (Igbo origin) meaning "God repairs". Often spelled as Adby, this name is a very popular first name and last name among men in Nigeria and people who are of African descent across other continents. 66. Gumede (Zulu origin) meaning "to end what you have started". Truly African surnames are unusual, remarkable, exceptional, and relevant. Agrinya (Nigerian origin) means "warrior," found amongst the Ogoja people of Nigeria. Ray Phiri was a Malawian immigrant who went on to become one of South Africa's most renowned Jazz musicians. Kidadl has a number of affiliate partners that we work with including Amazon. Find out some great southern African names with this list. On track for Cape Town E-Prix: R350 tickets still available, but not for long! Gcobani One of the most popular and optimistic Xhosa names is Gcobani, which means be joyful. Desmond Tutu is a renowned clerk and theologian, known for his work in the human rights sector. 55. Dogo It is one of the most widely used Hausa nicknames which means little. 32. 51. 54. Each surname has its own peculiar significance and purpose. Ndiaye (Senegal origin) meaning "descendant of the lion clan". 7. It means the compound remains strong in Igbo language. South African names are derived from a variety of African dialects and regional languages. The first name is Bright. Zadzisai -It has its roots in the Shona group of Zimbabwe, and means fulfilment of a pledge or a promise. It is usually accepted as a male name. A popular surname among the Yoruba people from different countries of West Africa, Abimbola means born with wealth. African last names are a reflection of their customs and peculiar naming traditions. When you buy through the links on our site we may earn a commission. As Africa is made up of 54 countries (making it the second-largest continent in the world), its naming systems are diverse. Traditional African given names often reflect the circumstances at the time of birth. These beautiful South African names derive from the country's rich history and are influenced by its many languages and traditional inhabitants. It means the strong one has returned. The continent is home to various cultures and peoples. It is suitable for both boys and girls. The accuracy of these name definitions cannot be guaranteed. It is among the most common African last names. ywl -It means the river goddess has come home. It is a Malian surname, which means blessing. Buhle is a common surname among people who's identity is attached to the Xhosa clan. For more parenting tips and tricks, find us on Pinterest: Are you a writer, expert, or influencer? De Beer Afrikaans. It means a good runner. 40. It means "leaves" (verb) in Swahili. One of the most popular African names, Mensah comes from the Akan group, and means third child born to a couple. 54. Realistically, there is no better description of diversity than with the African people and their last names. 67. 69. Mensah One of the most popular African names, Mensah comes from the Akan group, and means third child born to a couple. Aguta (Igbo origin) meaning "to have many". Ambuya Mlambo was a groundbreaking broadcaster and television host best known for her programs geared towards children. 31. Kidadl is independent and to make our service free to you the reader we are supported by advertising. Surnames serve as a tool to identify our ancestry. Deng Mador K-Dengdit, Sudanese in Australia, African names like most traditional names like John (Yahweh is gracious) , Patrick (nobleman) , Natasha (christmas day), Abdul (servant of..) etc.. have meanings. Over nine years, she has helped various brands with compelling, well-researched, and unique content. 77. Tutu (Subiya origin) meaning "wealth". It is usually given to boys. Mensah (Akan origin) means "third child," found among the people of Ghana. This last name originates from the Igbo group. I maintain the list. Negga/Nega Origin: Ethiopian. Fundamental All languages Afrikaans Terms by semantic function Names Surnames. Molungu is a popular surname that many African people in the Bantu community hold. 64. 97. Helping or aiding others is a common theme found among Afrikaans names. Nwachukwu -This surname shows the devout nature of the people towards religion and belief in God. Buhari is one of South Africa's orthodox surnames. Nelson Mandela was the first president of South Africa in the post-Apartheid era. 95. Also: no one can dictate my life, nor my destiny, strong to be God to my destiny and my self. One of such names is a Yoruba surname Falade, which means god of divination has intermingled with royalty. Deressa (Ethiopian origin) the meaning of this name isnt quite clear. Nkrumah is not alone in fostering the identity of Africanism the late President Mobutu Sese Seko dropped his own Christian name and even renamed his country the then Belgian Congo which became Zaire. Amel (North African origin) means hope. Abara: Originating from the Igbo group of West Africa, Abara means 'spirit'. They are rich in culture and have versatile meanings and pronunciations. The people of South Africa take inspiration from several sources when it comes to surnames. 19.