what are the parameters you have used to arrive at this results ? Stemming from the Yoruba group, Adeleke means the king/crown/royalty triumphed. Sandbox Learning is part of Sandbox & Co., a digital learning company. 60. More News. Many African last names reference wealth and the aristocracy. 12. What I like about this name is it reflects which tribal group of South Africa I come from. Actually just after I was born, peace was restored in my family. Sarpong It has its origin in the Ashanti or Asante group. An optimistic surname and first name that hopes for prosperity, Adebisi means the king/crown/royalty produced more. This diversity is evident in all facets of their existence and it is very prominent. Tutu (Subiya origin) meaning "wealth". 26. 3. You will find the place of origin and the meaning of each name in this list too. 81. Igwe is one of the most common surnames found in the Igbo community. It originates from the Swahili culture and means delight or happiness. 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. You contact them to see if you share . It is suitable for both boys and girls. Lupondo South African. 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. For example Gebre-Egziabher in the Ethiopian/Eritrean languages of Amharic/Tigrinya means Servant of God and those are Christian names. Baharia (Swahili origin) means one who sails, common among the people of Tanzania and Kenya. 80. 52. So I would say that perhaps one would find God in a lot more African names than one would suspect. 100. 55. 42. When my mother was pregnant, she was always fighting with my father and his family; she was in this constant state of depression. 95. Dlamini is also the surname of the reigning royal family of eSwatini. 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. It means one who acts at the time of scarcity. 30. Ouahmed (Berber origin) meaning son of Ahmed. It is typically a male name. 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. Bilaal (Somali origin) means moistening. 48. An Igbo surname, Ala means land, while neme means doing something. 100. 18. Thank you! 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. By joining Kidadl you agree to Kidadls Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receiving marketing communications from Kidadl. The culture and diversity of the African continent are seen through its wide range of last names. Nnadi -This name from the Igbo tribes means my God is alive or my father lives. This does not influence our choices. I am certain that many other cultures equally create such names. Last names come from indigenous, colonialist, and diasporic roots. Oyekan (Shona origin) meaning "we are many". Yusuf The strength, power, influence and devotion. 72. ywl -It means the river goddess has come home. Yeboah meaning "helping others". The people of South Africa take inspiration from several sources when it comes to surnames. It also means once or one time in the Nguni languages such as Ndebele, Xhosa, and Zulu. If you have a South African last name, you may find it in one of the categories below. 90. Do you know what or where the last name Uwagbal or Ofenjiaguan came from or what it means. 67. Usually earned, Agrinya means warrior in the Yala language. In this context, the father can also mean God. Farouq The redeemer, one who differentiates between the right and wrong. This list contains Ethiopian last names, Sudanese last names and many more. Amaike (Igbo origin) meaning "the compound stays strong". Abara Origin: West African (Igbo). Quansah Origin: Ghanaian. The following 148 pages are in this category, out of 148 total. It is actually an oxymoron, a religious friend has suggested I change my name BUT, why should I? We recognise that not all activities and ideas are appropriate and suitable for all children and families or in all circumstances. Noxolo Judith Ncapayi, South Africa. Your privacy is important to us. 46. Abioye (Nigerian origin) means "born into royalty," from the Yoruba ethnic group. Mandela (Xhosa origin) meaning "gift of God". 62. 1. Surnames of Kenyan origin (37 P) Surnames of Moroccan origin (46 P) Surnames of North African origin (1 C) Surnames of Somali origin (4 P) Surnames of South African origin (5 C, 5 P) Surnames of Swaziland origin (1 P) Surnames of Tunisian origin (10 P) Surnames of West African origin (5 C, 3 P) Swahili-language . Shaka Zulu was the leader of the Zulu Kingdom in the early 19th century. Okoye -It is a conventional surname across various African people and means one who is born on orie market day. Her love for content creation made her pivot her career from science to writing. Akinyi is another popular last name in Africa that means born in the morning.. Your privacy is important to us. Phiri (Malawi origin) meaning "mountain". Apply this search to the user-submitted names. Kidadl is independent and to make our service free to you the reader we are supported by advertising. Information on our advertising guidelines can be found. 94. Gbeho Origin: Ghanaian. It is considered to be primarily male. 64. Rajnandini is an art lover and enthusiastically likes to spread her knowledge. This list may not reflect recent changes. Kasongo (Congolese origin) meaning "bushbuck". You have subscribed to: Remember that you can always manage your preferences or unsubscribe through the link at the foot of each newsletter. Keita (Malian origin) means "blessing," found among the people of Mali. 36. 64. 28. Desmond Tutu is a renowned clerk and theologian, known for his work in the human rights sector. Kimathi Origin: Kenyan. Some of the names on this list have similar meanings but are derived from different languages and tribes. 3. So Ndubueze means that life is king to live is to be a king. 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. It is usually accepted as a male name. Chizimu Origin: Malawian (Lambya). Ele It is common both as a surname and a nickname. Etiename (Ibibio origin) meaning "benevolent". Mokrani (Berber origin) refers to a town in Algeria. Akinyemi (Yoruba origin) meaning "destined to be a warrior". It is a popular female given and last name among the Yoruba people, and means a child to be cherished or pampered. It can be used for both boys and girls. 16. Odili meaning "peace". It means the river goddess has come home. Luter South African. Meaning: Child that keeps coming or reincarnation., 5. Van Graan. Truly African surnames are unusual, remarkable, exceptional, and relevant. The Muslim name Abd-Allah is equivalent to the Gebre Egziabher I mentioned above. Tawedzwegwa Purpose Katakwa, Zimbabwe. 52. This name suits both boys and girls. South Africa is considered to be a melting pot filled with traditions and systems adopted from all parts of the African continent. Ouyahia (Berber origin) means son of Yahia. March 03 , 2023. Negga/Nega Origin: Ethiopian. 65. 66. Lucas Radebe is a former African football player who became known as 'The Chief' during his time at Leeds United. Kenyetta (Kenya origin) meaning "musician". Bongani (South African origin) means thankful or grateful in Zulu. Among the Hausa tribes of Nigeria, Babangida means the master of the house. The entire continent of Africa is so incredibly diverse and all of its traditions are pulled from all over, making it one huge melting pot. Cisse (Madinka origin) meaning "professor". 45. 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. Common South African surnames. Mandela. This also doesnt include some of the well-known tribes like Igbo and Yoruba. De Beer Afrikaans. For instance in Togo, apart from their original meanings, those names also have other interesting meanings. 83. 64. They are rich in culture and have versatile meanings and pronunciations. Abdallah Origin: An Arabic name found through Sudan. A common last name for boys among the Yoruba people, Ademola means the king/crown/royalty along with wealth. Akosua Adoma Owusu is an African-American producer and filmmaker focused on creating content that depicts the collision of different identities. Izem (Berber origin) from the Tamazight word which means lion. Radebe (Zulu origin) meaning "big tree". My name is meaningful (in your Gods name Im happy is the direct translation of my first and last names taken together). Back to top-1. Sefako meaning "hail". Owusu meaning "strong-minded and determined". Akpabio (Nigerian origin) means "leader" or "noble," and is found among the Ibibio people. On this Wikipedia the language links are at the top of the page across from the article title. Your use of the site indicates your agreement to be bound by our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. This name is primarily masculine. 53. Many common South African last names make references to natural occurrences. Meaning: God is watching.. Anyone using the information provided by Kidadl does so at their own risk and we can not accept liability if things go wrong. 24. If anything the french names have remained the same and are quite common in South Africa. 34. 79. 68. In abreviation ABUCHI for my Western folks, short and simple isnt it. All rights reserved. 23. Mostafa Origin: An Arabic name found throughout Egypt. Several African names and surnames, when translated, often make full sentences. Meaning: Spirit. But 32 years later the late Laurent Kabila kicked Mobutu out, and re-baptised the country the Democratic Republic of Congo. Banchiamalck Dessalegn, Ethiopian in U.S. My name Derefaka figuratively means: Continuing the heritage of our fathers. Also: no one can dictate my life, nor my destiny, strong to be God to my destiny and my self. It is generally regarded as suitable for boys. As Sudan is filled with many different tribes and ethnicities. The surname with Yoruba origin means god has rewarded me for my sufferings. 70. Luckhoff South African. The people can be divided into over a thousand different ethnic groups. 29. There are 54 countries, between 900 and 1,500 languages, and several thousand ethnic groups in Africa, according to Britannica. 1. Chibuzo is an African last name that means God give me directions. Well send you tons of inspiration to help you find a hidden gem in your local area or plan a big day out. 2. It is usually given to boys. "Bruyn" is an archaic spelling of "bruin", meaning "brown". Find your South African last name, meaning, and origins. YM, Ethiopia. Sandbox Learning is part of Sandbox & Co., a digital learning company. 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. 54. Behind the Name: Ndebele Given Names. Find out some great southern African names with this list. These kinds of surnames evolve into family names such that in a particular community, more than one extended family can have this surname as their last name. It is usually considered to be suitable for boys. Elmi (Somali origin) means knowledge. Zammit (Tunisian origin) means servant of. 47. Ndiaye (Senegal origin) meaning "descendant of the lion clan". It is one of the most widely used Hausa nicknames which means little. SOUTH AFRICAN SURNAMES - A PLEASE NOTE: This is ONLY a listing of who is interested in which South African families. It must be noted though that English white South Africans, Coloureds and very few blacks have "Afrikaans" surnames. Zadzisai (Shona origin) meaning "fulfillment of a promise". It originates in Igbo and means child of the supreme God. Magombo Swahili, African, Swazi (Rare) Meaning unknown, possibly related from the fore name of the same name. Dualeh (Somali origin) the meaning of this name is unknown. This is why many last names technically have different origins. There are just too many peculiarities and labels associated with Africa and Africans. For example if you were born on a Monday and named Kojo or Kodjo for a boy or Adjo for a girl, you would be taken as a zealous man or woman because Monday is the first day of work after the weekend, and if you were born on a Wednesday and named Kokou for a boy or Akwa for a girl, you were taken as a half-lazy person because people usually work or go to school for just the first half of the day -from 7 to 12- and use the other half as leisure time, and if you were born on a Sunday and named Kossi for a boy or Kossiwa for a girl, you were taken as the child of God, the pure, pretty child because people dress up pretty to worship God at the mass on Sunday. 39. 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. 16. 50. 7. 7. Quansah (Ghanaian origin) meaning "God is watching". Abioye (Yoruba origin) meaning "son of royalty". 9. It is both a surname and a given name, which means I should give praise. 83. This name was adopted in the 17th century by Wesselius Praetorius as a Latin translation of his previous surname Schulte. Esther Mahlangu is an artist best known for contemporary paintings based on her cultural heritage. Abebe Origin: Ethiopian. 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. In the Igbo language, Aguta means to have plenty or to have plenty/many. Meaning: Born during the festival or war. While going through these last names, remember that many African names may be masculine; however, as parents, choose the surnames that connect with you and suit your baby. Ambuya Mlambo was a groundbreaking broadcaster and television host best known for her programs geared towards children. It depends on what region of Sudan the girl is from. https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Category:Afrikaans-language_surnames&oldid=1108286178, Template Category TOC via CatAutoTOC on category with 101200 pages, CatAutoTOC generates standard Category TOC, Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License 3.0, This page was last edited on 3 September 2022, at 15:23. Its other variants are Orjea, Orjee, Orjey, Orjie, and Orjy. It is now common in South Africa. West Nkosi was a South African songwriter and music producer. This page was last edited on 20 June 2022, at 04:46. Meaning: We added to the crown.. This name is also predominantly given to boys. 44. de Klerk. 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. The rare surname means he says and does as he said he would do, and is considered to be a masculine name. Over nine year more. Olatunji Usually used as a given name and the last name, Olatunji means wealth awakes again. Abimbola (Nigerian origin) meaning "born into wealth," the name is specific to the Yoruba people of western Nigeria. Zadzisai -It has its roots in the Shona group of Zimbabwe, and means fulfilment of a pledge or a promise. 86. It also functions both as the last name and a surname. If you are looking for more unique names, you can look at our articles on South African Names and African Last Names. Behind the Name: Tswana Given Names. Kagiso (Tswana origin) means peace. Here is a list of common South African names that have a rich history and lineage. One of such names is a Yoruba surname Falade, which means god of divination has intermingled with royalty. 85. Abara is a common last name in the Igbo community. The name originates from Bemba and it means origin. Abebe (Amharic origin) meaning "flower". It is suitable for both boys and girls. From Latin praetor meaning "leader". 87. It is considered a male name. See a medical professional for personalized consultation. 69. Abara (Igbo origin) meaning "spirit". So a name is really very important. Used both as a last name and a given name, Ladipo or Oladipo means wealth and prosperity. Tambo meaning "rope". 60. 74. Surnames like Abimbola that reference wealth and prosperity are common in South Africa. It is primarily masculine in essence. 49. 95. Haggar (North African origin) means flight. Mwanajuma (Swahili origin) meaning "born on Friday". We mention the African last names with their meanings and origins to help you learn about their rich history. The northern part of Africa, according to the UN, is made up of seven countries. We can be baptised another Kenyan/African and more meaningful name than being another of the somewhat bland Peters and Janes of the world. Ghana's founding father Kwame Nkrumah chose to name his two sons after fellow African leaders. 8. 79. What a wonderful name; Maduabuchi Onwuachimba (Igbo-Nigeria). Fundamental All languages Afrikaans Terms by semantic function Names Surnames. Even though both of these peoples reside in South Africa, their customs are radically different. I just feel happy to say that this programme of conscientization is excellent. It has its origin in the Ashanti or Asante group. Selassie -Generally given to boys, it has its origin in the Amharic language, and means trinity. Dawit (Amharic origin) means beloved. 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. 23. 14. Typically found in the Akan group of Ghania, it means royalty or noble person. Rothschild. 99. It has its origins in the Benin culture and means seeking refuge in the elders protection. Madhurima has completed her Masters in Biochemistry from North Eastern Hill University (NEHU), Shillong. This is one of the beauties associated with African surnames. 67. 89. She writes baby name articles for MomJunction. 61. 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. Hlengiwe (South African origin) means redeemed. Makeba meaning "precious jewel". Dumisani (South African origin) means praise in Zulu and Ndebele. Amani (Ethiopian origin) means faith. It can be translated into the land is active. 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. 65. 76. 56. It is suitable for boys. The Kidadl Team is made up of people from different walks of life, from different families and backgrounds, each with unique experiences and nuggets of wisdom to share with you. The term 'Goddesses' can be found among many common African names. 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. Adomako Origin: Ghanaian. Achebe (Nigerian origin) meaning "the goddess protects," from the Igbo people of Nigeria. Amel (North African origin) means hope. 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. Boujettif Origin: Northern African (Archaic). Because I am a petite and sweet-looking woman, I find myself often underestimated and underminded. Kenyatta -A common name among the Kenyan people, Kenyatta means musician. Abebe (Amharic origin) meaning "flower". 88. A name that acknowledges a divine concession is Chukwunyelu, which means God gives in Igbo. FamilyEducation does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Ait (Berber origin) means son, and is found among people from Morocco. Phukuntsi (Tswana origin) meaning "one who attracts flies". 19. Fundamental All languages Afrikaans Terms by semantic function Names Surnames. It means sturdy or mighty tree. 81. 1. 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. 5. We also also Afrikaan. Dogo It is one of the most widely used Hausa nicknames which means little. 9. And a Nigerian friend has told me that many Ibo names are equivalent compounds of the divines name and some desirable relationship. 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. 58. 69. 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. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); Totally Wonderful African Surnames and their Astonishing Meanings. Akinyemi is a surname found mostly in descendants of the Yoruba people. Outside work, her interests include music, movies, travel, philanthropy, writing her blog, and reading. It implies that a baby will be the first of many children for couples who have had difficulty in conceiving. 15. It means child with fat cheeks. It is both a surname and given name of Yoruba origin, which means the crown gained advancement. Okeke (Igbo origin) meaning "born on Eke". Ladipo -Used both as a last nameand a given name, Ladipo or Oladipo means wealth and prosperity. Franklin Ayodele is a famous Nigerian footballer who has this common surname. Albaz (Jewish origin) means falconer and originates from Morocco and Algeria.