Ladipo (Nigerian origin) meaning "wealth and prosperity," peculiar to the Yoruba people. 54. This does not influence our choices. Similar to the name Adewole, which means the king/crown has entered the house, it has its origin from the Yoruba groups. We hope you liked our selection. Much like Scotland, most last names can date back to a particular patriarch within the tribe that which the name was based. The most common South African surnames come from Nguni clans, which consist of the Zulu, Xhosa, and Ndebele clans. SOUTH AFRICAN SURNAMES - A PLEASE NOTE: This is ONLY a listing of who is interested in which South African families. 2022 Sandbox Networks Inc. All rights reserved. Meaning: Unknown. It means valor is the worth of wealth or being brave, usually given to boys. The following two tabs change content below. Ndiaye Among the citizens of Senegal, Ndiaye is a ferocious surname as well as a given name. Subscribe for virtual tools, STEM-inspired play, creative tips and more. This does not influence our choices. Nnadi -This name from the Igbo tribes means my God is alive or my father lives. Egebe Another nickname that also functions as a surname is Egebe, which means kite. But 32 years later the late Laurent Kabila kicked Mobutu out, and re-baptised the country the Democratic Republic of Congo. Find out some great southern African names with this list. And many of the names in Oromo (another Ethiopian language) that contain Waaq as in Waaqgari, or Waaqayoo are similar derivations from the Oromo word for God (Waq). Having its roots in Yoruba, the name means my wealth is moving forward or my wealth is the future, and it is mostly given to boys. Okoye -It is a conventional surname across various African people and means one who is born on orie market day. 49. 39. Akpabio -Originating from the Ibibio group, Akpabio means leader, noble or prime. It is suitable for both boys and girls. I maintain the list. We also also Afrikaan. Your use of the site indicates your agreement to be bound by our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Siddig (Arabic origin) meaning friend. Coetzee Afrikaans. Preparations for the long-awaited Cape Town E-Prix are on track for next Saturday 25 November when the event kicks off on the streets of the Green Point Precinct. - wife of Charles Meredith Deane (1): 2. Nnamani -Mostly given to the men as a surname or a given name, it means my fathers land or my ancestral home. Let us know your favorites in the comment section. Osei meaning "royalty". It must be noted though that English white South Africans, Coloureds and very few blacks have "Afrikaans" surnames. We also link to other websites, but are not responsible for their content. It has its origin in the Tiv language, and means fathers love. The Africans really delve into their culture, language, and ethnicity to bring out tremendous names. Gavin Wood and Felix February shares more about the idea behind the Slave Calendar that explores the history of surnames of Capetonians. Orji meaning "mighty tree". Gowon Rooted in the Tiv language, Gowon means the rainmaker. Tawedzwegwa Purpose Katakwa, Zimbabwe. 7. 12. And Its curious there arent many hausa names (if any at all). Many African last names reference wealth and the aristocracy. 80. It also means once or one time in the Nguni languages such as Ndebele, Xhosa, and Zulu. It is typically a male name. 5. 18. It also means once or one time in the Nguni languages such as Ndebele, Xhosa, and Zulu. 75. Selassie -Generally given to boys, it has its origin in the Amharic language, and means trinity. Bouhouche (Kabyle origin) means father. Gowon (Tiv origin) meaning "the rainmaker". 67. 14. The Akan name is widely used among the girls. Uduike Udu means a clay pot to fill water, and Ike means strength. Over nine year more. This name is also predominantly given to boys. You can find some beautiful and popular African last names from countries in eastern Africa. In the Wolof language, Alioune means lofty or sublime. Mahlangu meaning "one who carries the shield". It means descendant of the lion clan, and is suitable for both genders. Motaung meaning "lions". Fuli (Swahili origin) means very fast. 44. This name is also masculine in essence. Mambwe (Zambian origin) meaning "the Lord is gracious". We strive to recommend the very best things that are suggested by our community and are things we would do ourselves - our aim is to be the trusted friend to parents. Meaning: Destined for greatness. 42. Get in touch! Actually just after I was born, peace was restored in my family. 27. Conteh (Sierra Leone origin) meaning "great eagle". Adisa (Yoruba origin) meaning "one who is clear". It is both a surname and a given name, which means I should give praise. The term 'Goddesses' can be found among many common African names. Ndiaye (Senegal origin) meaning "descendant of the lion clan". Chedjou Origin: Cameroonian. It is an Igbo surname and nickname, which conveys pride. Amahle (Zulu origin) means the beautiful ones. Rooted in the Tiv language, Gowon means the rainmaker. 40. The native African surnames and last names are unique, reflective, and meaningful. 96. Olanrewaju (Yoruba origin) meaning "my prosperity is moving forward". If you had as much fun as we believe you did with this article, you can spread the joy by sharing it with friends and family. Tersoo It has its origin in the Tiv language, and means fathers love. 68. 1. Dalitso (Malawi origin) means blessing. 59. 24. 59. Yusuf The strength, power, influence and devotion. Whilst this is a list of last names, many of the last names on this list have also been used as first names too. Surnames like Abimbola that reference wealth and prosperity are common in South Africa. 55. Discover the ethnic origin and meaning of last names. Generally given to boys, it means the king/crown/royalty befits me or worthy of the crown. It means may I not lack a family or a home. This last name is commonly used by joint families in Africa. Akinyemi is a surname found mostly in descendants of the Yoruba people. Truly African surnames are unusual, remarkable, exceptional, and relevant. Dikeledi (Botswanan origin) means tears. Madhurima has completed her Masters in Biochemistry from North Eastern Hill University (NEHU), Shillong. 23. 28. 17. Nelson Mandela was the first president of South Africa in the post-Apartheid era. Oyekan (Shona origin) meaning "we are many". Playing with names really is part of many African cultures. Okusanya (Yoruba origin) meaning "God has rewarded me". When my mother was pregnant, she was always fighting with my father and his family; she was in this constant state of depression. This is why many last names technically have different origins. according to the nigerian census. Onyilogwu -It means one who is invulnerable to dark magic. What we suggest is selected independently by the Kidadl team. It is a favored name for boys among people of Yoruba lineage. Used both as a last name and a given name, Ladipo or Oladipo means wealth and prosperity. This name is suitable for both genders. Obi -A mainstream name among the Igbo surnames in Nigeria, Obi means 'heart'. Here are some common South African last names: Dlamini: A popular surname in Southern Africa. Meaning: Born with wealth.. Abimbola (Yoruba origin) meaning "born with wealth". 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. In the 1700s some Portuguese sailors were s. SOUTH AFRICAN SURNAMES - P PLEASE NOTE: This is ONLY a listing of who is interested in which South African families. It means one who acts at the time of scarcity. Mangosuthu Buthelezi was an African tribal leader and one of the founders of the IFP (Inkatha Freedom Party). 64. This name is also predominantly given to boys. An optimistic surname and first name that hopes for prosperity, Adebisi means the king/crown/royalty produced more. It means destined to be a warrior in Yoruba language. It is suitable for boys and girls. 93. It means born into wealth or born into high status. If you have a South African last name, you may find it in one of the categories below. The Igbo people do not use family names. Ait (Berber origin) means son, and is found among people from Morocco. Zadzisai -It has its roots in the Shona group of Zimbabwe, and means fulfilment of a pledge or a promise. It would be great if you could help me out. Malan. Amaike (Igbo origin) meaning "the compound stays strong". 34. Folorunsho One of the many surnames that appreciate the divine is a Yoruba name Folorunsho, which means under Gods protection. 71. Nwadike -It is of Igbo origin and means one who is from a strong lineage, this person is strong, child warrior, or son of a hero. You have subscribed to: Remember that you can always manage your preferences or unsubscribe through the link at the foot of each newsletter. Imari is a variant of the African name Imani, meaning loyal.. Alaneme (Igbo origin) meaning "the land is active". 99. 39. Medupe (Tswana origin) meaning "gentle rain". It can be used for both boys and girls. 86. If anything the french names have remained the same and are quite common in South Africa. The northern part of Africa, according to the UN, is made up of seven countries. Richard Maponya was a South African conglomerate who built a business empire. The name originates from Bemba and it means origin. Usually used as a given name and the last name, Olatunji means wealth awakes again. If you are looking for African surnames for your kid, you are at the right place. Luter South African. In Igbo language, it means my land is not lost. A common nickname among the Yoruba people, Afolayan means one who walks with confidence or one who carries oneself like a wealthy person. Family Education is part of the Sandbox Learning family of educational reference sites for parents, teachers, and students. Msiza meaning "helper". 3. Afumba (Zambian origin) meaning "when they plan". Mohammed Praise-worthiness and laudability, 57. Afolabi (Yoruba origin) meaning "someone who is born into high status and wealth". Hi, I am writing a novel and the main character (a girl) is from Sudan. Akpabio (Nigerian origin) means "leader" or "noble," and is found among the Ibibio people. Alioune (Senegalis origin) meaning "sublime" or "lofty". Meaning: God is watching.. 54. Originating from the Igbo group of West Africa, Abara means spirit. 5. One of such names is a Yoruba surname Falade, which means god of divination has intermingled with royalty. 12. Itumeleng (Botswanan origin) means joy. This article contains incorrect information, This article doesnt have the information Im looking for, 100 Top South African Last Names With Meanings, 60+ Funny Orc Names That Are Perfect For Your Next Campaign, All Of The Pillar Men Names From JoJo's Bizarre Adventure, 100+ Ice Hockey, Roller Hockey, And Hockey Team Names From Past And Present, 80+ Beaver Names From Fiction, Plus Cute And Funny Ideas For Names. Some names describe the parents reaction to the birth (such as Kayode, Gwandoya, Abeni and Monifa) and still others are descriptive of the newborn or of desired characteristics (like Yejide, Dada, Chiumbo and Zuberi). It is a conventional female name among the Yoruba groups and means wealth is sweet. There are 54 countries on the African continent, and each is made up of unique people from different ethnic groups which provides a rich variety to the range of different surnames found across the continent. Chidubem Origin: Nigerian (Igbo). Several African names and surnames, when translated, often make full sentences. 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. Meaning: The Chosen One., 58. 79. 100. 22. It means the one that I have is greater. Elmi (Somali origin) means knowledge. I am a product of religious parents and culture; hence I shall carry this name, however unfitting it seems, to the grave. Daneil Negussie Aberra, Ethiopia/USA, What makes a person is his/her identity. I suppose it depends what you mean by most common . Many Swahili last names pay homage to the day or time that a person was born. It is of Igbo origin and means one who is from a strong lineage, this person is strong, child warrior, or son of a hero. Here is a list of the best and most common African last names from South Africa along with their meaning. Chaka (Bemba origin) meaning "year". This category has the following 9 subcategories, out of 9 total. Abbas Origin: An Arabic name found throughout Algeria. Another surname of Yoruba origin, Adebowale means return of the crown. It is suitable for boys. 100. Osei (Ghanaian origin) means "noble person" or "royalty," and is common among the Akan people. 53. Their ancestors arrived in South Africa through three different routes: 1. 93. Meaning: The night has passed.. 2023 Wording Vibes - WordPress Theme by Kadence WP, Classic French Boy Names that Exudes Essence and Masculinity, Best Out of Waste Ideas to Make Kids Smart and Skillful, Hippie Names that are Quite Lighthearted for Innocent Kids, A Broad Collection of Names that Mean Wind, Storm or Air, Most Modern Tamil Baby Names Popularly Used for Kids, Royal Family Last Names Globally Recognized with Regality, Ageless Aztec Names that have Transcended Time and Generations, 160+ Best Unique Names for Grandma Grandmother Nicknames. The names are organised into subsections based on the location of their origin, in order to make this list as clear as possible for your enjoyment. Ele It is common both as a surname and a nickname. It is typically a male name. Other variants are Efua, Afua, and its male version is Kofi. Many of the population here practice Islam, hence there are a lot of names that originate from the Arabic language too. 25. 8. Okoro Origin: Nigerian (Urhobo). Zuma meaning "of God". I interpret my name to mean that I lie low, allowing my snout to be poked and proded until I emerge to reveal all that was hidden below the murky waters suface. 62. Nkosi (Nguni origin) meaning "king". Last name Onwuachimba means Death could never wipe out a community. Asa directly translates to shield, so Alasa means lord or owner of the shield. It is common both as a surname and a nickname. 41. Having its roots in Ibibio, the surname or nickname Etienam means a doer of good or benevolent. Otueome The rare surname means he says and does as he said he would do, and is considered to be a masculine name. 15. Mostly given to the men as a surname or a given name, it means my fathers land or my ancestral home. Third item on the film. 68. Kidadl is supported by you, the reader. 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. This is one of the beauties associated with African surnames. Sometimes also a given name for boys. In this context, the father can also mean God. Vocabulary words are also often used as given names. This name suits both boys and girls. This name is primarily masculine. 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. Thebe Medupe is an African Astrophysicist recognized for his work on a project called 'Cosmic Africa'. 69. 97. 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. Generally used as a masculine name, it means we have increased or multiplied or we are many among the Shona group of Zimbabwe. 93. Discover the ethnic origin and meaning of last names. For example Gebre-Egziabher in the Ethiopian/Eritrean languages of Amharic/Tigrinya means Servant of God and those are Christian names. 45. They are rich in culture and have versatile meanings and pronunciations. 1. The name list is disproportionately nigerian . Your privacy is important to us. South African (Anglicized, Archaic, Expatriate), Apply this search to the main name collection, the letters in the pattern are compared to the letters in the name, search for an exact phrase by surrounding it with double quotes, this field understands simple boolean logic, force a term to be included by preceding it with a, force a term to be excluded by preceding it with a, sounds can only be searched in names that have been assigned pronunciations, syllables can only be counted in names that have been assigned pronunciations, names without pronunciations are excluded from results. It is an Akan male surname which means strong-willed and determined. Omenma It is a nickname which also functions as the last name. The accuracy of these name definitions cannot be guaranteed. 55. 38. Bankole (Yoruba origin) meaning "build my house for me". Jlassi (Tunisian origin) means loyalty or sincerity. 65. Abebe (Amharic origin) meaning "flower". Interesting article, where did you source the data this research is based on. Other variants include Ali and Alioun. You will find the place of origin and the meaning of each name in this list too. Nenge -This unusual surname means see in Tiv. Abioye (Nigerian origin) means "born into royalty," from the Yoruba ethnic group. It is a common unisex name. Mokrani (Berber origin) refers to a town in Algeria. It is a globally used Igbo surname which means tiger. For more parenting tips and tricks, find us on Pinterest: Are you a writer, expert, or influencer? Another expression of a characteristic trait, Asaju means leader of warriors, and is considered primarily male. Dive into this post for some amazing and interesting African surnames. From the first tribes on the earth to modern-day societies, African names represent ancestral meanings. Our recommended activities are based on age but these are a guide. 87. Apply this search to the user-submitted names. It is usually given to boys. As an Amazon Associate, Kidadl earns from qualifying purchases. Yvonne Chaka Chaka is an acclaimed South African entrepreneur, singer, humanitarian and actress, and has also been given the title 'Princess of Africa' by her fans. Fundamental All languages Afrikaans Terms by semantic function Names Surnames. We have listed 100 surnames of African origin in this article. 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. 43. Agwuegbo (Nigerian origin) means "the hardship is over," found among the Igbo people. Meaning: He came in a joyful time or the king/crown/royalty meets joy., 11. You can hear a certain surname in a family being carried forward for many generations. 37. 30. Boipelo (Botswanan origin) means proud. Adebisi is one of the many African names that mean king. Adebisi (Yoruba origin) meaning "the king produced more". 6. 46. Mazigh (Arabic origin) means free man. Igwe Among the Igbo groups, Igwe means heaven, which is considered the highest realm of existence. Acheampong Origin: Ghanaian (Ashanti). 32. Kanye -Popularised by celebrity rapper Kanye West, the Igbo name Kanye means lets give or to give honor or tribute. Ahishakiye (Rwandan origin) meaning "whenever God wants". Many African last names reference wealth and the aristocracy. Enjoyably, the pronunciation of these African surnames gives you a thrill that you can never get with any other set of Surnames. 66. It is generally regarded as suitable for boys. 87. Get high-quality PDF version by clicking below. Keita (Malian origin) means "blessing," found among the people of Mali. Agu (Nigerian origin) means "tiger" and is a popular Igbo name. Omenuko The surname acknowledges the helpfulness or resourcefulness of a person. 38. Meaning: Handsome, manly, or strong.. creative tips and more. 36. Mandela. FamilyEducation does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Albaz (Jewish origin) means falconer and originates from Morocco and Algeria. Chalo (Zambian origin) means battle. Bankole (Nigerian origin) means "help me build my house," from the Yoruba ethnic group. Abdallah Origin: An Arabic name found through Sudan. Teklehaimanot Origin: Ethiopian. It is a popular female given and last name among the Yoruba people, and means a child to be cherished or pampered. Fundamental All languages Afrikaans Terms by semantic function Names Surnames. It means sturdy or mighty tree. Most Popular African Last Names Or Surnames, Infographic: Top African Surnames Rich In History And Culture. what are the parameters you have used to arrive at this results ? We also link to other websites, but are not responsible for their content. It means the one that I have is greater. It is also a display of honor for the eze or king in some parts of Igboland. 31. Gcobani One of the most popular and optimistic Xhosa names is Gcobani, which means be joyful. Kidadl has lots of great names articles to inspire you. Meaning: The Lord is gracious.. If you liked our suggestions for South African last names then why not take a look at something different like Nigerian Last Names or Caribbean Names. Nwachukwu (Igbo origin) meaning "child of God". Oliver Tambo was a South African revolutionary and head of the ANC (African National Congress) for 24 years. hausas are the most populous group in nigeria. Akinyi is another popular last name in Africa that means born in the morning.. Keita It is a Malian surname, which means blessing. 41. The culture and diversity of the African continent are seen through its wide range of last names. It originates from the Swahili culture and means delight or happiness. Kagiso (Tswana origin) means peace. 85. 90. Meaning: Lion., 3. Do you know what or where the last name Uwagbal or Ofenjiaguan came from or what it means. 34. Afrikaans names shared by family members. 88. 65. Widely used among the Yoruba families, it means help build our house or build my house for me. For example: Sefu "sword" and Tau "lion" (masculine) and Marjani "coral" and Ife "love" (feminine). Usually found among the male population of Nigeria, this name means honor surrounds him. If you are looking for more unique names, you can look at our articles on South African Names and African Last Names. Last names or family names are surnames that identify a person's family, community, tribe, or village. A name that acknowledges a divine concession is Chukwunyelu, which means God gives in Igbo. Family Education is part of the Sandbox Learning family of educational reference sites for parents, teachers, and students. Zivai Another name that originates from the Shona group is Zivai, which means you must know. 6. Ababio Origin: Ghanaian. 24. South Africa is considered to be a melting pot filled with traditions and systems adopted from all parts of the African continent. Submitted names are contributed by users of this website. Its not just some common names you hear every day. It is considered to be primarily male. Your use of the site indicates your agreement to be bound by our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Meaning: One who possesses a clever head. Negga/Nega Origin: Ethiopian. Paul Gisemba, Kenya, Given the importance of names in my social background (among the Dinka people), I am proud to be one of those named after the famous legendary ancestor of the Dinka people of Sudan, Deng, who was believed to be the direct decendant of Adam (Garang) and Eve (Abuk). Meaning: Unknown. 69. Mulder. It means one who is invulnerable to dark magic. 65. You cant find them anywhere else. A A A. Avocado consumption in South Africa has been on the rise in recent years, just like in many other places around the world. An Igbo surname, Ala means land, while neme means doing something. Dualeh (Somali origin) the meaning of this name is unknown. Helping or aiding others is a common theme found among Afrikaans names. Sarpong (Ghanaian origin) means "great warrior" or "supreme," found among the Ashanti group. 14. For example: Sefu sword and Tau lion (masculine) and Marjani coral and Ife love (feminine). Originally a unisex nickname, Oriko is often used as a fond last name. Abioye (Yoruba origin) meaning "son of royalty". It is suitable for boys and girls. YM, Ethiopia. Many common South African last names make references to natural occurrences. Its other variants are Orjea, Orjee, Orjey, Orjie, and Orjy. It means the river goddess has come home. Among the Igbo groups, Igwe means heaven, which is considered the highest realm of existence. So a name is really very important. Nenge (Nigerian origin) means "see," found among the Tiv people. Traditional African given names often reflect the circumstances at the time of birth. If you enjoy this article are interested in finding more naming information, take a look at these Peruvian last names and these Czech last names, but for now enjoy this list of African surnames with their origins and meanings. Kidadl has a number of affiliate partners that we work with including Amazon. It has its roots in the Shona group of Zimbabwe, and means fulfilment of a pledge or a promise. 78. 6. This information is for educational purposes only and not a substitution for professional health services. Information on our advertising guidelines can be found. It is considered to be fundamentally masculine. It means a good runner. It means peace, suitable for a boy or a girl. Another conventional name that praises physical strength is Orji. Mary Twala was an artist who started her career by starring in 'Generations', a South African TV series. 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. 43. The name is an invocation to Ijebu, the god of wealth. Ghana's founding father Kwame Nkrumah chose to name his two sons after fellow African leaders. Kenyetta (Kenya origin) meaning "musician". 76. Adebisi Origin: Nigerian (Yoruba). Die Afrikaner-familienaamboek : sketse en besonderhede omtrent die voorgeslagte van bekende Afrikanerfamilies An alphabetical list of South African surnames and early genealogy connected therewith. 58. Typically found in the Akan group of Ghania, it means royalty or noble person. It is generally regarded as suitable for boys. Igwe (Igbo origin) meaning "sky". As an Amazon Associate, Kidadl earns from qualifying purchases. de Klerk. 4. 89. Name and surname: NE NTULI STUDENT NUMBER: 60283858 UNIQUE NUMBER: 888570 MODULE: PVL 2601 ASSINGMENT 1 SEMESTER 2 2020 Question 1 a. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); Totally Wonderful African Surnames and their Astonishing Meanings. 49. The name can be translated as fullness of power. 96. There we go! 11. Abara is a common last name in the Igbo community. 94. 2022 Sandbox Networks Inc. All rights reserved. Sarpong It has its origin in the Ashanti or Asante group. It is usually given to boys. 100. 76. Esther Mahlangu is an artist best known for contemporary paintings based on her cultural heritage. Kidadl is supported by you, the reader. Maduabuchi means Humans are not God. Popularized by former US president Barack Obama, the name has its origin in the Luo dialect, and means to lean or bend. I just feel happy to say that this programme of conscientization is excellent.