74. 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. In this context, the father can also mean God. Commonly used as a male name in Nigeria, Anenih means God bearing name. Gbeho Origin: Ghanaian. Taleb A devoted student or a seeker of knowledge, 92. Keita meaning "blessing". 17. It means one who has many people to call for help, and is considered typically male. It means "leaves" (verb) in Swahili. Even though both of these peoples reside in South Africa, their customs are radically different. Usually used as a given name and the last name, Olatunji means wealth awakes again. Alinafe (Malawi origin) means he is with us. 57. Masondo (Zulu origin) meaning "wheels". Apply this search to the user-submitted names. 70. Apply this search to the user-submitted names, 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, the "relationship" is how the name relates to its parent name. Get in touch! Truly African surnames are unusual, remarkable, exceptional, and relevant. It is a globally used Igbo surname which means tiger. There are also hundreds of languages spoken on the continent, providing endless interesting meanings of each last name. Your use of the site indicates your agreement to be bound by our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. 20. It is considered to be fundamentally masculine. Meaning: Earnest provider.. Another name that originates from the Shona group is Zivai, which means you must know. African names have always been associated with personal identity and personality structure expressed in the hopes and aspirations of the parents and passed on to the individual child. Mazigh (Arabic origin) means free man. Okusanya (Yoruba origin) meaning "God has rewarded me". Oliver Tambo was a South African revolutionary and head of the ANC (African National Congress) for 24 years. Here is a list of common South African names that have a rich history and lineage. Dikeledi (Botswanan origin) means tears. I maintain the list. 1. This also doesn't include some of the well-known tribes like Igbo and Yoruba. Other variants are Efua, Afua, and its male version is Kofi. SOUTH AFRICAN SURNAMES - A PLEASE NOTE: This is ONLY a listing of who is interested in which South African families. 91. Typically found in the Akan group of Ghania, it means royalty or noble person. Hassan Origin: An Arabic name found throughout Morocco. Copyright 2011 - 2023 MomJunction Private Limited. These beautiful South African names derive from the country's rich history and are influenced by its many languages and traditional inhabitants. Its other variants are Wonai and Vonai. Kahinu (Swahili origin) means clergyman. I just feel happy to say that this programme of conscientization is excellent. Sarpong (Ghanaian origin) means "great warrior" or "supreme," found among the Ashanti group. Omenma meaning "one who does enough for others". Among the Igbo groups, Igwe means heaven, which is considered the highest realm of existence. Okoro Origin: Nigerian (Urhobo). 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. Several African names and surnames, when translated, often make full sentences. Quansah (Ghanaian origin) meaning "God is watching". Tawedzwegwa Purpose Katakwa, Zimbabwe. 61. Buthelezi (Zulu origin) meaning "chief". The Ashanti or Asante people anticipate a good future for their children by giving the name Acheampong, which means destined for greatness. 57. Get in touch! Whilst this is a list of last names, many of the last names on this list have also been used as first names too. Ghana's founding father Kwame Nkrumah chose to name his two sons after fellow African leaders. A common nickname among the Yoruba people, Afolayan means one who walks with confidence or one who carries oneself like a wealthy person. They are rich in culture and have versatile meanings and pronunciations. Sefako meaning "hail". 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. Igwe Among the Igbo groups, Igwe means heaven, which is considered the highest realm of existence. This name is primarily masculine. They are passionate about turning your everyday moments into memories and bringing you inspiring ideas to have fun with your family. 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. It has its origins in the Benin culture and means seeking refuge in the elders protection. For more parenting tips and tricks, find us on Pinterest: Are you a writer, expert, or influencer? Odili is a surname that is common among many people in the Zulu community. Oyekan -Generally used as a masculine name, it means we have increased or multiplied or we are many among the Shona group of Zimbabwe. Ahishakiye (Rwandan origin) meaning "whenever God wants". Amani (Ethiopian origin) means faith. An Igbo surname, Ala means land, while neme means doing something. Umburter (Nigerian origin) means "remember the father," found among the Tiv people. 84. Abdallah Origin: An Arabic name found through Sudan. It is suitable for both boys and girls. 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. It means sturdy or mighty tree. Get high-quality PDF version by clicking below. 51. See a medical professional for personalized consultation. Mensah One of the most popular African names, Mensah comes from the Akan group, and means third child born to a couple. Playing with names really is part of many African cultures. 81. Nnamani -Mostly given to the men as a surname or a given name, it means my fathers land or my ancestral home. Fundamental All languages Afrikaans Terms by semantic function Names Surnames. It means the one that I have is greater. Another surname of Yoruba origin, Adebowale means return of the crown. It means who knows tomorrow, an implication of the uncertainty and potential of the future, in Igbo language. 85. Kalu (Ibo origin) meaning "God of thunder", Kalus is one of the most prominent surnames found in the African continent. 25. 71. It is usually given to boys. Abara is a common last name in the Igbo community. Nowhere in the Bible does it say one should have a Christian name and it certainly did not require it to be English or Western. Their ancestors arrived in South Africa through three different routes: 1. 28. In Igbo language, it means my land is not lost. 70. It is suitable for boys and girls. If anything the french names have remained the same and are quite common in South Africa. 79. 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. 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. You need to be quite careful and focused to be able to produce these African last names as they should be. It implies that a baby will be the first of many children for couples who have had difficulty in conceiving. Ouahmed (Berber origin) meaning son of Ahmed. As Africa is made up of 54 countries (making it the second-largest continent in the world), its naming systems are diverse. Apply this search to the user-submitted names. 16. 94. Achebe is an invocation of a deity, which means the Goddess protects. 69. 31. Other variants include Ali and Alioun. 68. 48. Most Popular African Last Names on FamilyEducation: Ba, Ballo, Dial, First Trimester To-Do List: Take Care of Yourself. 55. Aguer (South Sudanese origin) means tree. My first name is from the bible as Christanity was an old religinon in Ethiopia/Africa. Thebe Medupe is an African Astrophysicist recognized for his work on a project called 'Cosmic Africa'. Some practice various tribal religions, others Islam or Christianity. Van Graan. 12. 64. 65. Tersoo It has its origin in the Tiv language, and means fathers love. 11. according to the nigerian census. A name that praises God is Chidubem, which means God is my guide in Igbo. It is suitable for both boys and girls. Keita It is a Malian surname, which means blessing. Kikelomo is one of the most conventional names that can be found among African languages. This name from the Igbo tribes means my God is alive or my father lives. Barnard. 86. 26. It is now common in South Africa. Good question! This category has the following 9 subcategories, out of 9 total. Adisa (Yoruba origin) meaning "one who is clear". Meaning: 'Child of the freeborn man.'. Ech (North African origin) meaning edge or corner. 95. 9. 56. 35. Here is a list of popular South African last names. Some of these names can also be found in other parts of Africa, but are more commonly found amongst people in northern Africa. And Its curious there arent many hausa names (if any at all). 91. 66. Meaning: Title given to firstborn male children of the Ibibio/Efik people. 67. 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. When you buy through the links on our site we may earn a commission. 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). It also functions both as the last name and a surname. Gowon (Tiv origin) meaning "the rainmaker". Meaning: Guided by God.. This information is for educational purposes only and not a substitution for professional health services. Conteh is a common last name adopted throughout the African mainland. Coetzee Afrikaans. 24. Many African last names reference wealth and the aristocracy. Twala meaning "to carry". 45. Eze (Igbo origin) meaning "king". 3. There are ten countries found in this part of the continent, not counting the island of Madagascar. It is usually given to boys. Phiri (Malawi origin) meaning "mountain". 2. Mahlangu meaning "one who carries the shield". My name is Kwena and it means crocodile. 93. Alioune (Senegalis origin) meaning "sublime" or "lofty". Buhari meaning "is a man". Realistically, there is no better description of diversity than with the African people and their last names. 19. 18. 49. 29. 59. By joining Kidadl you agree to Kidadls Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receiving marketing communications from Kidadl. Adby Origin: Nigerian (Yoruba). Ghanas founding father Kwame Nkrumah chose to name his two sons after fellow African leaders. Zodwa Dlamini is the Vice Chancellor for Research at the MUT (Mangosuthu University of Technology), a residential university located in Durban, South Africa. 93. It is a popular female given and last name among the Yoruba people, and means a child to be cherished or pampered. When we come to my dads name Negussie it means my king and my grandpas name Aberra means its shining so when you read my entire name it has a meaning of Daniel my king shines. Yeah, I hope I will shine forever and be a man for a change. Browse our list of the most common South American names and surnames from A-Z. Meaning: God is watching.. This list also contains some of the most common Yoruba surnames, like Adebayo and some interesting Igbo last names. This surname has its ancestral roots in Swahili, and means born on Friday. FamilyEducation does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Let us know your favorites in the comment section. Imari is a variant of the African name Imani, meaning loyal.. Theophilus Khumalo is a retired South African football player, best known for playing in South Africa's national team. 53. Popular among the female populace of Nigeria, it is an inspirational name which means she opens the way. Common South African surnames. 86. 83. Meaning: Unknown. Its not just some common names you hear every day. 30. Ait (Berber origin) means son, and is found among people from Morocco. Oluwusi It means kingship has increased. 17. 86. In abreviation ABUCHI for my Western folks, short and simple isnt it. Toure (Ghanaian origin) means "elephant," from the Soninke word. 33. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); Totally Wonderful African Surnames and their Astonishing Meanings. Meaning: Handsome, manly, or strong.. Among the Hausa tribes of Nigeria, Babangida means the master of the house. It means a good runner. This is why many last names technically have different origins. Achebe (Igbo origin) meaning "the Goddess protects". It originates from the Swahili culture and means delight or happiness. Obama Popularized by former US president Barack Obama, the name has its origin in the Luo dialect, and means to lean or bend. Buhle is a common surname among people who's identity is attached to the Xhosa clan. The continent is home to various cultures and peoples. We mention the African last names with their meanings and origins to help you learn about their rich history. Bongani (South African origin) means thankful or grateful in Zulu. Chidubem is one of the many surnames that calls for a higher power. 30. Meaning: Child of the freeborn man.. So I would say that perhaps one would find God in a lot more African names than one would suspect. You have subscribed to: Remember that you can always manage your preferences or unsubscribe through the link at the foot of each newsletter. Another surname of Igbo origin, Agwuegbo means the hardship is over. Over nine years, she has helped various brands with compelling, well-researched, and unique content. 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. Chidiozie is a long-established surname in many African communities. 13. They speak Afrikaans and generally worship in Reformed Christian churches, but exhibit discernible non-European ancestry, in particular African ancestry. Meaning: Born during the festival or war. Many of the population here practice Islam, hence there are a lot of names that originate from the Arabic language too. 36. Chidubem Origin: Nigerian (Igbo). Information on our advertising guidelines can be found. It is one of the most widely used Hausa nicknames which means little. A well-liked Yoruba male name, Abioye means born into royalty or the son of royalty. 44. Ganizani (Botswanan origin) means think in Chewa. Makeba meaning "precious jewel". Back to top? It is considered a male name. Sekou Nkrumah was named after Guinea's first President Sekou Toure, while Gamal Nkrumah got his name from Egyptian President Gamal . Gebreyes (Ethiopian origin) means servant of. 72. Last names provide a great bridge to our family's past, and those from Africa are no exception. It means one who is born during the festival or war. Olatunji Usually used as a given name and the last name, Olatunji means wealth awakes again. Abioye (Nigerian origin) means "born into royalty," from the Yoruba ethnic group. 51. This is why many last names technically have different origins. 35. It has its origin in the Tiv language, and means fathers love. It means one who does good to others. Sekou Nkrumah was named after Guineas first President Sekou Toure, while Gamal Nkrumah got his name from Egyptian President Gamal Abdel Nasser. 42. 78. A common name among the Kenyan people, Kenyatta means musician. 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. 99. Amahle (Zulu origin) means the beautiful ones. Kidadl has lots of great names articles to inspire you. Deressa (Ethiopian origin) the meaning of this name isnt quite clear. 85. One of the given and last names for boys among the Swahili tribes, Jelani means mighty or full of strength. South African names are derived from a variety of African dialects and regional languages. The Igbo people do not use family names. 38. Dogo (Nigerian origin) means "little," found among the Hausa in the northern part of Nigeria. This name is mostly given to sons by the hopeful family. Kasongo Origin: Congolese. This name is primarily masculine. 59. De Beer is a Dutch and Afrikaans surname, meaning "the bear". 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. 9. On this Wikipedia the language links are at the top of the page across from the article title. Its other variants are Wonai and Vonai. Ladipo (Nigerian origin) meaning "wealth and prosperity," peculiar to the Yoruba people. 32. Mambwe (Zambian origin) meaning "the Lord is good". Rothschild. Mines Margaret, or Latin for some Catholics. Popularized by former US president Barack Obama, the name has its origin in the Luo dialect, and means to lean or bend. 54. 77. 7. It means one who is invulnerable to dark magic. 38. Dlamini (Etswana origin) meaning "royalty". Enjoyably, the pronunciation of these African surnames gives you a thrill that you can never get with any other set of Surnames.
