Mazigh (Arabic origin) means free man. South african last names starting with M Elmalik (Arabic origin) means the King, often found in the countries of northern Africa. Lupondo South African. One of the most popular African names, Mensah comes from the Akan group, and means third child born to a couple. This list contains Ethiopian last names, Sudanese last names and many more. Ababio Origin: Ghanaian. 89. Madhurima takes a keen interest in parenting and lifestyle. Onai Having its origin in the Shona group of Zimbabwe, the name means a call to observe or to see that which has happened. 85. 91. In May 2003 I took a genetics test and found out that Im a direct descendent of the Mandinkas maternally. Owusu meaning "strong-minded and determined". Most Popular African Last Names Or Surnames, Infographic: Top African Surnames Rich In History And Culture. Albert Luthuli was an African Nobel Peace Prize winner, teacher, and anti-apartheid activist. When my mother was pregnant, she was always fighting with my father and his family; she was in this constant state of depression. This name from the Igbo tribes means my God is alive or my father lives. Meaning: The night has passed.. It is a nickname which also functions as the last name. Each name is unique and holds an ancestral meaning, symbolizing the origin and history. The first name is Bright. Okoro (Igbo origin) meaning "greatness". 64. 99. March 03 , 2023. Van Graan. Pages in category "Afrikaans-language surnames" The following 148 pages are in this category, out of 148 total. It means sturdy or mighty tree. Over nine years, she has helped various brands with compelling, well-researched, and unique content. This name is mostly given to sons by the hopeful family. It is actually an oxymoron, a religious friend has suggested I change my name BUT, why should I? 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. Cisse (Madinka origin) meaning "professor". My first name is from the bible as Christanity was an old religinon in Ethiopia/Africa. Kasongo (Congolese origin) meaning "bushbuck". Discover the ethnic origin and meaning of last names. 92. 61. Adebisi (Yoruba origin) meaning "the king produced more". In many languages of Ethiopia for example, typical names are compounded of the divinity and some aspect of it. The northern part of Africa, according to the UN, is made up of seven countries. Buhari is one of South Africa's orthodox surnames. 6. Buhari meaning "is a man". Meaning: One who possesses a clever head. Eke Eke means superstructure of the roof. From the first tribes on the earth to modern-day societies, African names represent ancestral meanings. Explore the most common surnames in South Africa. Chifundo (Malawi origin) means mercy in the Chewa language. It means the river goddess has come home. This diversity is evident in all facets of their existence and it is very prominent. Mandela (Xhosa origin) meaning "gift of God". 42. 86. 29. It is suitable for both boys and girls. Mambwe (Zambian origin) meaning "the Lord is gracious". 22. Used both as a last name and a given name, Ladipo or Oladipo means wealth and prosperity. This last name is commonly used by joint families in Africa. So Ndubueze means that life is king to live is to be a king. Ambuya Mlambo was a groundbreaking broadcaster and television host best known for her programs geared towards children. Thanks! Botha Southern African, Afrikaans. 35. Chidiozie is a long-established surname in many African communities. Molungu is a popular surname that many African people in the Bantu community hold. This skyrocketing demand has a variety of negative side effects, like high prices or bad farming practices, but now there seems to be another one to keep an eye on: immature avocados. I am certain that many other cultures equally create such names. Luthuli (Zulu origin) meaning "the month of dust". 25. Hailing from the ethnic group Yoruba, Abiodun is often used both as a surname and a first name. Akpabio (Nigerian origin) means "leader" or "noble," and is found among the Ibibio people. Mensah One of the most popular African names, Mensah comes from the Akan group, and means third child born to a couple. Gowon Rooted in the Tiv language, Gowon means the rainmaker. What a wonderful name; Maduabuchi Onwuachimba (Igbo-Nigeria). It is considered a male name. Fuli (Swahili origin) means very fast. Usually used as a given name and the last name, Olatunji means wealth awakes again. One of the given and last names for boys among the Swahili tribes, Jelani means mighty or full of strength. Bankole (Yoruba origin) meaning "build my house for me". "Bruyn" is an archaic spelling of "bruin", meaning "brown". Prince David Osei is an admired African philanthropist, investor, entrepreneur and actor. Among the citizens of Senegal, Ndiaye is a ferocious surname as well as a given name. Many African last names reference wealth and the aristocracy. Abuchi, USA, I have a western surname, presumably that of the slavemaster of my forebears. Orji meaning "mighty tree". 31. Benhaim (Judoe origin) means son of life. Surnames serve as a tool to identify our ancestry. Kidadl cannot accept liability for the execution of these ideas, and parental supervision is advised at all times, as safety is paramount. It is an Akan male surname which means strong-willed and determined. 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. 65. It is a commonly adored name for boys. She is fond of classic British literature. 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. 47. Masondo (Zulu origin) meaning "wheels". It is usually given to boys. For more parenting tips and tricks, find us on Pinterest: Are you a writer, expert, or influencer? It would be great if you could help me out. This name is also predominantly given to boys. Let us know your favorites in the comment section. 13. Truly African surnames are unusual, remarkable, exceptional, and relevant. Boipelo (Botswanan origin) means proud. 2. South African variant of Both. It also means the next to be crowned among the Yoruba speaking groups. 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. Amani (Ethiopian origin) means faith. The History of South African Surnames. Mokrani (Berber origin) refers to a town in Algeria. 74. 23. We also link to other websites, but are not responsible for their content. An appreciative masculine name that embraces a new arrival with positivity, it means the king/crown/royalty filled the house. Abdallah Origin: An Arabic name found through Sudan. Unlike some places, African surnames dont really follow trends or have common features or patterns. Meaning: Bushbuck.. Examples are Afrikaans, Xhosa, Zulu, Ndebele, and Tswana to name a few. 96. 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. 48. Meaning: Flower or blossom., 4. Sandbox Learning is part of Sandbox & Co., a digital learning company. Lucas Radebe is a former African football player who became known as 'The Chief' during his time at Leeds United. Igwe (Igbo origin) meaning "sky". 54. Abebe (Amharic origin) meaning "flower". Having its origin in the Shona group of Zimbabwe, the name means a call to observe or to see that which has happened. 3. This name is primarily masculine. The genesis of this Ethiopian name is Amharic, and it means flower or blossom. 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. 78. Maybe you have also been intrigued by these African surnames; below we give you a list of some wonderful surnames borne by Africans. Gavin Wood and Felix February shares more about the idea behind the Slave Calendar that explores the history of surnames of Capetonians. Find out some great southern African names with this list. Chikondi (Malawi origin) means love. With a Master of Arts in English, she has worked as a private tutor and, in the past few years, has moved into content writing for companies such as Writer's Zone. Olantungi (Yoruba origin) meaning "wealth wakes again". Haliche (Berber origin) the meaning of this name isnt quite certain. Other names reflect the birth order of the newborn, for example Mosi first born, Kunto third born, Nsonowa seventh born, and Wasswa first of twins. 99. There are just too many peculiarities and labels associated with Africa and Africans. Common South African surnames. This also doesn't include some of the well-known tribes like Igbo and Yoruba. Thebe Medupe is an African Astrophysicist recognized for his work on a project called 'Cosmic Africa'. Meaning: Spirit. Sekou Nkrumah was named after Guinea's first President Sekou Toure, while Gamal Nkrumah got his name from Egyptian President Gamal . 40. Hlengiwe (South African origin) means redeemed. From Latin praetor meaning "leader". Bongani (South African origin) means thankful or grateful in Zulu. Derived from the Tiv language, it means remember the father. Abi, Togo, I love my name to death. This information is for educational purposes only and not a substitution for professional health services. Abimbola Origin: West African (Yoruba). Kidadl has lots of great names articles to inspire you. If you liked our suggestions for African Last Names then why not take a look at Scottish last names, or for more last names take a look at these Croatian surnames. De Beer is a Dutch and Afrikaans surname, meaning "the bear". The above list includes all the meaningful surnames with their unique meanings. Richard Maponya was a South African conglomerate who built a business empire. This list may not reflect recent changes. 53. Here is a list of the best and most common African last names from South Africa along with their meaning. It took me most of my life to come to this understanding about my name. Here is a list of common South African names that have a rich history and lineage. 57. 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. Jomana (Arabic origin) means a pearl. Akinyi is another popular last name in Africa that means born in the morning.. Behind the Name: Tswana Given Names. It is suitable for boys. Adeleke (Yoruba origin) meaning "the crown triumphed". 81. As an Amazon Associate, Kidadl earns from qualifying purchases. Kidadl cannot accept liability for the execution of these ideas, and parental supervision is advised at all times, as safety is paramount. It implies that a baby will be the first of many children for couples who have had difficulty in conceiving. Deressa (Ethiopian origin) the meaning of this name isnt quite clear. Popoola (Nigerian origin) means "intelligent people," found in the Yoruba ethnic group. It is a Malian surname, which means blessing. This name is also masculine in essence. Twala meaning "to carry". Olatunji Usually used as a given name and the last name, Olatunji means wealth awakes again. Information on our advertising guidelines can be found. Among the Shona people of Zimbabwe, Anotidaishe means the Lord loves us. Subscribe for virtual tools, STEM-inspired play, Several African names and surnames, when translated, often make full sentences. Fundamental All languages Afrikaans Terms by semantic function Names Surnames. Afolabi (Yoruba origin) meaning "someone who is born into high status and wealth". 7. It is one of the most widely used Hausa nicknames which means little. One of the many surnames that appreciate the divine is a Yoruba name Folorunsho, which means under Gods protection. It means supreme or a great warrior and is usually given to boys. Anyone using the information provided by Kidadl does so at their own risk and we can not accept liability if things go wrong. Luter South African. Keita meaning "blessing". Buhle is a common surname among people who's identity is attached to the Xhosa clan. 83. Okafor (Igbo origin) meaning "born on Afor". Dawit (Amharic origin) means beloved. Faraji (Swahili origin) meaning "consolation". 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. Another name that originates from the Shona group is Zivai, which means you must know. Last names come from indigenous, colonialist, and diasporic roots. It has its origin in the Shona groups of Zimbabwe. 89. It is mostly given to girls. 83. This name suits both boys and girls. 69. Agwuegbo (Nigerian origin) means "the hardship is over," found among the Igbo people. The following 67 pages are in this category, out of 67 total. There are 54 countries, between 900 and 1,500 languages, and several thousand ethnic groups in Africa, according to Britannica.Last names come from indigenous, colonialist, and diasporic roots. South african last names starting with R You can find some beautiful and popular African last names from countries in eastern Africa. Fatsani (Botswanan origin) means be meek in Chewa. What I like about this name is it reflects which tribal group of South Africa I come from. It depends on what region of Sudan the girl is from. 90. Dive into this post for some amazing and interesting African surnames. Umburter Derived from the Tiv language, it means remember the father. Coetzee Afrikaans. This name is often given to boys. 3. 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. Meaning: When they plan.. im writng a short story and I was wondering if I could get a last name, that could work for the western part of Africa. Generally given to boys, it means the king/crown/royalty befits me or worthy of the crown. 51. 20. Its other variants are Orjea, Orjee, Orjey, Orjie, and Orjy. Maponya meaning "king of elephants". 50. 35. Odili is a surname that is common among many people in the Zulu community. Kikelomo is one of the most conventional names that can be found among African languages. It is typically a male name. There are ten countries found in this part of the continent, not counting the island of Madagascar. 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. Typically found in the Akan group of Ghania, it means royalty or noble person. Information on our advertising guidelines can be found. 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. Ouahmed (Berber origin) meaning son of Ahmed. Esther Mahlangu is an artist best known for contemporary paintings based on her cultural heritage. South Africa is full of so many diverse people. Meaning: The son of royalty. 68. Okoye -It is a conventional surname across various African people and means 'one who is born on orie market day'. Orji Another conventional name that praises physical strength is Orji. Here is a list of popular South African last names. 58. Quansah (Ghanaian origin) meaning "God is watching". It is also a display of honor for the eze or king in some parts of Igboland. 94. 20. The Africans really delve into their culture, language, and ethnicity to bring out tremendous names. 68. Tshabalal (Zulu origin) meaning "shooting star". Meaning: Earnest provider.. Furaha It originates from the Swahili culture and means delight or happiness. Check your inbox for your latest news from us. 10. 78. Having its roots in Ibibio, the surname or nickname Etienam means a doer of good or benevolent. Biko (Bantu origin) meaning 'a person of the people". Theophilus Khumalo is a retired South African football player, best known for playing in South Africa's national team. 56. These countries have their own beautiful languages, resulting in a range of different names that are unique to this region. Afrikaans names shared by family members. Dogo It is one of the most widely used Hausa nicknames which means little. 11. Nenge (Nigerian origin) means "see," found among the Tiv people. It can be used for both boys and girls. Wairimu Kuria, Kenyan in US, African names comes with great pride and power. 3. It means he came in a joyful time or the king/crown/royalty meets joy in Yoruba. 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. It means mine is worthy of thanks or gratitude, and is suitable for both boys and girls. Abioye (Yoruba origin) meaning "son of royalty". It is usually given to boys. It means wealth has come home, and is predominantly considered a male name. 1. Kidadl is independent and to make our service free to you the reader we are supported by advertising. My African name reflects my personality I hate fights and arguments ; I am a peaceful person. In this context, the father can also mean God. Nnadi is an extremely common surname used in much African community. Quansah is one of the many surnames that makes reference to religion and a higher power. Many common South African last names make references to natural occurrences. Another name that implores to the child is Banmeke, which means hold or sustain the rafter of the house with me. 24. We have listed 100 surnames of African origin in this article. One of the most famous people to have this name is Chinua Achebe, considered the most influential African writer who won the Man Booker International Prize in 2007. Her love for content creation made her pivot her career from science to writing. It is considered to be fundamentally masculine. In the Igbo language, Aguta means to have plenty or to have plenty/many. It can be translated into the land is active. Kimathi Origin: Kenyan. Definition from Wiktionary, the free dictionary, Afrikaans surnames from Germanic languages, Afrikaans surnames from Indo-European languages, Afrikaans surnames from Romance languages, https://en.wiktionary.org/w/index.php?title=Category:Afrikaans_surnames&oldid=67421191, Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License. 100. Please note: prices are correct and items are available at the time the article was published. 52. 85. Jlassi (Tunisian origin) means loyalty or sincerity. Kahinu (Swahili origin) means clergyman. Ndaba meaning "news". Dikeledi (Botswanan origin) means tears. Africa is home to several language families and hundreds of languages all these different cultures countries and people have something in common they can be found now world wide and one way of keeping and telling others about your roots is African Surname and there for it is considered as very important in todays African culture. It is a Dutch/Flemish variant on the word Lowe, meaning Lion. Widely used among the Yoruba families, it means help build our house or build my house for me. I maintain the list. Maduabuchi means Humans are not God. Here are some common South African last names: Dlamini: A popular surname in Southern Africa. Akpabio -Originating from the Ibibio group, Akpabio means leader, noble or prime. 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. Eze (Igbo origin) meaning "king". This is why many last names technically have different origins. It is a popular female given and last name among the Yoruba people, and means a child to be cherished or pampered. 52. Selassie -Generally given to boys, it has its origin in the Amharic language, and means trinity. Ray Phiri was a Malawian immigrant who went on to become one of South Africa's most renowned Jazz musicians. Noxolo Judith Ncapayi, South Africa. Adby Origin: Nigerian (Yoruba). Sarpong (Ghanaian origin) means "great warrior" or "supreme," found among the Ashanti group. Themba Ndaba is a renowned South African director who selected the cast of 'Zone 14' and 'Machine Gun Preacher'. Gowon (Tiv origin) meaning "the rainmaker". 1. It is considered to be primarily male. A name that praises God is Chidubem, which means God is my guide in Igbo. 2. Last names provide a great bridge to our family's past, and those from Africa are no exception. 89. More so, African surnames are plainly out of this world. 8. 22. Kidadl has a number of affiliate partners that we work with including Amazon. 7. It is a favored name for boys among people of Yoruba lineage. SOUTH AFRICAN SURNAMES - A PLEASE NOTE: This is ONLY a listing of who is interested in which South African families. An optimistic surname and first name that hopes for prosperity, Adebisi means the king/crown/royalty produced more. Ganizani (Botswanan origin) means think in Chewa. Osei (Ghanaian origin) means "noble person" or "royalty," and is common among the Akan people. Popoola It means intelligent people, love god. For more parenting tips and tricks, find us on Pinterest: Are you a writer, expert, or influencer? It means one who has many people to call for help, and is considered typically male. 25. Alinafe (Malawi origin) means he is with us. This list may not reflect recent changes. This also doesnt include some of the well-known tribes like Igbo and Yoruba. Meaning: God is watching.. 72. It means the strong one has returned. This practice is usually done as a memorial to the heroics of the one who first bore that name. It is a conventional female name among the Yoruba groups and means wealth is sweet. Meaning: The Chosen One., 58.