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). If you are looking for African surnames for your kid, you are at the right place. Sarpong (Ghanaian origin) means "great warrior" or "supreme," found among the Ashanti group. It is home to many ethnic groups and tribes. It is one of the most widely used Hausa nicknames which means little. Popoola (Nigerian origin) means "intelligent people," found in the Yoruba ethnic group. 85. Mafanela South African. In this context, the father can also mean God. Amaike (Igbo origin) meaning "the compound stays strong". Mbatha meaning "protector". Osei Typically found in the Akan group of Ghana, it means royalty or noble person. Nnadi -This name from the Igbo tribes means my God is alive or my father lives. 41. Kanye -Popularised by celebrity rapper Kanye West, the Igbo name Kanye means lets give or to give honor or tribute. Dalitso (Malawi origin) means blessing. 97. What we suggest is selected independently by the Kidadl team. Dogo It is one of the most widely used Hausa nicknames which means little. Okoro Origin: Nigerian (Urhobo). Jlassi (Tunisian origin) means loyalty or sincerity. Oyekan -Generally used as a masculine name, it means we have increased or multiplied or we are many among the Shona group of Zimbabwe. - wife of Ralph Patrick Murray (1): 3. Kahinu (Swahili origin) means clergyman. In the Tamazight language, Amaziane means young or little. Luthuli (Zulu origin) meaning "the month of dust". Kasongo Origin: Congolese. Mambwe Origin: Zambian. Badu Origin: Ghanaian. An optimistic surname and first name that hopes for prosperity, Adebisi means the king/crown/royalty produced more. - wife of Charles Meredith Deane (1): 2. For example: Sefu "sword" and Tau "lion" (masculine) and Marjani "coral" and Ife "love" (feminine). 10. Lupondo South African. Benhaim (Judoe origin) means son of life. This Yoruba name means the lucid one or one who is clear. Submitted names are contributed by users of this website. 92. 79. This name is also predominantly given to boys. Ouahmed (Berber origin) meaning son of Ahmed. A name that reflects the gratitude of the family is Chamapiwa, meaning that which you have been given. Olanrewaju (Yoruba origin) meaning "my prosperity is moving forward". 17. 96. Chisomo (Malawi origin) means grace. Some practice various tribal religions, others Islam or Christianity. It means may I not lack a family or a home. Miriam Makeba was a civil rights activist, United Nations goodwill ambassador, singer and actress. 3. Zulu (Zulu origin) meaning "heaven". 78. This also doesnt include some of the well-known tribes like Igbo and Yoruba. 77. 52. South Africa is considered to be a melting pot filled with traditions and systems adopted from all parts of the African continent. This name is mostly given to sons by the hopeful family. Opeyemi It is both a surname and a given name, which means I should give praise. Meaning: Unknown. Kaloki (Kenyan origin) the meaning isnt quite known. Chidubem Origin: Nigerian (Igbo). SOUTH AFRICAN SURNAMES - A PLEASE NOTE: This is ONLY a listing of who is interested in which South African families. Kidadl is supported by you, the reader. Ndaba meaning "news". Dumisani (South African origin) means praise in Zulu and Ndebele. 1. Kimathi Origin: Kenyan. Albaz (Jewish origin) means falconer and originates from Morocco and Algeria. It also functions both as the last name and a surname. The name list is disproportionately nigerian . These beautiful South African names derive from the country's rich history and are influenced by its many languages and traditional inhabitants. The continent is home to various cultures and peoples. 95. Read for more information. South Africa is full of so many diverse people. The culture and diversity of the African continent are seen through its wide range of last names. 28. Umburter (Nigerian origin) means "remember the father," found among the Tiv people. Acheampong Origin: Ghanaian (Ashanti). 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. It is also a display of honor for the eze or king in some parts of Igboland. 74. Their names are based on male lineage. 8. YM, Ethiopia. 81. 26. It has its roots in the Shona group of Zimbabwe, and means fulfilment of a pledge or a promise. 88. 77. Ganizani (Botswanan origin) means think in Chewa. Well send you tons of inspiration to help you find a hidden gem in your local area or plan a big day out. I am having trouble picking the right name for her, and I want to get it correct so the first name and last name come from the same culture and make sense together. 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). Mohammed Praise-worthiness and laudability, 57. Bonolo (South African origin) means ease in the Sotho language. Abara: Originating from the Igbo group of West Africa, Abara means 'spirit'. Mambwe (Zambian origin) meaning "the Lord is gracious". Orji is a common surname in many South African cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg. 83. Originating from the Ibibio group, Akpabio means leader, noble or prime. It means one who acts at the time of scarcity. It is considered a male name. Meaning: 'Child of the freeborn man.'. My first name is from the bible as Christanity was an old religinon in Ethiopia/Africa. Feel free to also check out the history of these surnames as well to help you learn a little bit more about your background. It is a name that compliments a person, and it means one who does well. West Nkosi was a South African songwriter and music producer. This is why many last names technically have different origins. Ayenew (Ethiopian origin) means to renew. 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. Your partner in parenting from baby name inspiration to college planning. Another nickname that also functions as a surname is Egebe, which means kite. 80. Malan. 6. It is generally considered a boy name. 59. Kidadl provides inspiration to entertain and educate your children. Dualeh (Somali origin) the meaning of this name is unknown. 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. Many common South African last names make references to natural occurrences. Archi Gumede was a prominent African politician, lawyer and human rights activist. Okusanya (Yoruba origin) meaning "God has rewarded me". Much like Scotland, most last names can date back to a particular patriarch within the tribe that which the name was based. My African name reflects my personality I hate fights and arguments ; I am a peaceful person. Anyone using the information provided by Kidadl does so at their own risk and we can not accept liability if things go wrong. Sometimes used as a first name, this surname means the king/crown/royalty opens the belly/ womb. 94. 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. 20. Another unisex name, Okoro means child of the freeborn man, or man in Urhobo. Many Swahili last names pay homage to the day or time that a person was born. It is mostly given to boys due to its masculine connotation. 36. 64. Owusu meaning "strong-minded and determined". Family Education is part of the Sandbox Learning family of educational reference sites for parents, teachers, and students. Mahlangu meaning "one who carries the shield". The surname Keita gained prominence after the rule of the Keita dynasty from the 11th to the 17th century. Abimbola Origin: West African (Yoruba). Last names come from indigenous, colonialist, and diasporic roots. Juma (Swahili origin) means Friday born. Tambo meaning "rope". On this Wikipedia the language links are at the top of the page across from the article title. Explore the most common surnames in South Africa. Mostly given to the men as a surname or a given name, it means my fathers land or my ancestral home. Originating from the Igbo group of West Africa, Abara means spirit. Ramotholo Sefako is known as one of the first black South African astrophysicists. 65. Ihejirika -It is an Igbo surname and nickname, which conveys pride. 57. We try our very best, but cannot guarantee perfection. Nnadi (Igbo origin) meaning "my father lives". Other variants include Ali and Alioun. This name is often given to boys. hausas are the most populous group in nigeria. 7. Twala meaning "to carry". Buhle: the name is used mostly by the Xhosa clan to mean handsome. 55. Playing with names really is part of many African cultures. Sefako meaning "hail". Theophilus Khumalo is a retired South African football player, best known for playing in South Africa's national team. Folorunsho One of the many surnames that appreciate the divine is a Yoruba name Folorunsho, which means under Gods protection. Forebears knows about 821,426 unique surnames in South Africa and there are 66 people per name. Meaning: 10th-born child. Check your inbox for your latest news from us. Among the Hausa tribes of Nigeria, Babangida means the master of the house. One of such names is a Yoruba surname Falade, which means god of divination has intermingled with royalty. 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. 50. Barnard. 81. Mwanajuma (Swahili origin) meaning "born on Friday". 23. Meghnagi (Libyan origin) could refer to zion. Answer (1 of 6): No, some similarities but very different spelling. It is usually given to boys. Among the Igbo groups, Igwe means heaven, which is considered the highest realm of existence. 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. 52. 93. The first name is Bright. 89. 86. I maintain the list. FamilyEducation does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Among the Xhosa and Ndebele groups of people, Buhle is a popular name which means handsome or beautiful. Buthelezi (Zulu origin) meaning "chief". She writes baby name articles for MomJunction. Meaning: He came in a joyful time or the king/crown/royalty meets joy., 11. In abreviation ABUCHI for my Western folks, short and simple isnt it. You contact them to see if you share . 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. 89. It means child with fat cheeks. Outside work, her interests include music, movies, travel, philanthropy, writing her blog, and reading. It means valor is the worth of wealth or being brave, usually given to boys. It is considered to be primarily male. Whilst this is a list of last names, many of the last names on this list have also been used as first names too. Adebisi Origin: Nigerian (Yoruba). Kimathi (Kenyan origin) meaning "earnest provider". Onyilogwu -It means one who is invulnerable to dark magic. 67. how do go about changing your name to an African name? Phiri (Malawi origin) meaning "mountain". Truly African surnames are unusual, remarkable, exceptional, and relevant. Adebisi (Nigerian origin) meaning "we/the King gave birth to more," from the Yoruba ethnic group. It originates in Igbo and means child of the supreme God. Odili is a surname that is common among many people in the Zulu community. Luter South African. Maponya meaning "king of elephants". 6. It means mine is worthy of thanks or gratitude, and is suitable for both boys and girls. Over several hundred years, borders have been made, changed and broken, making family history difficult to trace. 75. 46. Chidiozie is a long-established surname in many African communities. If you purchase using the buy now button we may earn a small commission. This practice is usually done as a memorial to the heroics of the one who first bore that name. 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. Used both as a last name and a given name, Ladipo or Oladipo means wealth and prosperity. Among the Shona people of Zimbabwe, Anotidaishe means the Lord loves us. 62. 2022 Sandbox Networks Inc. All rights reserved. Zadzisai -It has its roots in the Shona group of Zimbabwe, and means fulfilment of a pledge or a promise. Botha Southern African, Afrikaans. Our recommended activities are based on age but these are a guide. Copyright 2011 - 2023 MomJunction Private Limited. It can be used for both boys and girls. 30. 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. Nomzamo Mbatha is a South African businesswoman, actress, and human rights activist. It is a common given name to male children, which means firstborn son in Egyptian. It is usually given to boys. 94. Nwachukwu -This surname shows the devout nature of the people towards religion and belief in God. There are 54 countries, between 900 and 1,500 languages, and several thousand ethnic groups in Africa, according to Britannica. 51. 37. You need to be quite careful and focused to be able to produce these African last names as they should be. SaveIllustration: Momjunction Design Team. 11. 1. Aguta is included in the list of conservative surnames found in the African mainland. Coetzee Afrikaans. Haggar (North African origin) means flight. 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. It is suitable for both boys and girls. Do you know what region or tribe that that would be from? Some of these names can also be found in other parts of Africa, but are more commonly found amongst people in northern Africa. 49. This surname has its ancestral roots in Swahili, and means born on Friday. creative tips and more. Derived from the Tiv language, it means remember the father. Answer (1 of 4): Most of these surnames are not Hispanic at all, but Lusophone (Portuguese). 40. This list may not reflect recent changes. Last names or family names are surnames that identify a person's family, community, tribe, or village. Its variant is Chike, which means Gods power. Meaning: Unknown. ywl -It means the river goddess has come home. Your privacy is important to us. Another name that originates from the Shona group is Zivai, which means you must know. The following 148 pages are in this category, out of 148 total. Ray Phiri was a Malawian immigrant who went on to become one of South Africa's most renowned Jazz musicians. Apply this search to the user-submitted names. Each surname has its own peculiar significance and purpose. Similar to the name Adewole, which means the king/crown has entered the house, it has its origin from the Yoruba groups. South African variant of Both. Omenuko The surname acknowledges the helpfulness or resourcefulness of a person. Desmond Tutu is a renowned clerk and theologian, known for his work in the human rights sector. Examples are Afrikaans, Xhosa, Zulu, Ndebele, and Tswana to name a few. Masoja Msiza is a South African artist known for appearing in the hit telenovela 'Uzalo'. Ghirmai (Unknown origin) means my majesty. 62. It means a good runner. Dogo (Hausa origin) meaning "little". What we suggest is selected independently by the Kidadl team. Interesting article, where did you source the data this research is based on. Get in touch! Ngige is one of the most old-fashioned surnames that people in Africa have. Okeke (Igbo origin) meaning "born on Eke". It is suitable for boys. Maduabuchi means Humans are not God. according to the nigerian census. Agu (Nigerian origin) means "tiger" and is a popular Igbo name. Daneil Negussie Aberra, Ethiopia/USA, What makes a person is his/her identity. A common name among the Kenyan people, Kenyatta means musician. 63. 56. 90. The Ashanti or Asante people anticipate a good future for their children by giving the name Acheampong, which means destined for greatness. Egebe Another nickname that also functions as a surname is Egebe, which means kite. Here is a list of popular South African last names. 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. When you buy through the links on our site we may earn a commission. Agrinya (Nigerian origin) means "warrior," found amongst the Ogoja people of Nigeria. Temitope It means mine is worthy of thanks or gratitude, and is suitable for both boys and girls. Falade Several African names and surnames, when translated, often make full sentences. It means supreme or a great warrior and is usually given to boys. Igwe is an extremely popular surname used by various religious subsects. It is a Malian surname, which means blessing. 71. Kikelomo is one of the most conventional names that can be found among African languages. Okoye -It is a conventional surname across various African people and means one who is born on orie market day. 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. The surname with Yoruba origin means god has rewarded me for my sufferings. We try our very best, but cannot guarantee perfection. Information on our advertising guidelines can be found. It is an aspirational surname with Igbo origin, which means to be higher or to be better. Esther Mahlangu is an artist best known for contemporary paintings based on her cultural heritage. Luckhoff South African. Abi, Togo, I love my name to death. 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. The name originates from Bemba and it means origin. 40. African Surnames: If theres ever a place or people you cant overlook, its the Africans. Zammit (Tunisian origin) means servant of. 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. We have listed 100 surnames of African origin in this article. Typically found in the Akan group of Ghania, it means royalty or noble person. Rothschild. The term 'Goddesses' can be found among many common African names. Kidadl cannot accept liability for the execution of these ideas, and parental supervision is advised at all times, as safety is paramount. Nelson Mandela was the first president of South Africa in the post-Apartheid era. Subscribe for virtual tools, STEM-inspired play, creative tips and more. 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. It also means the next to be crowned among the Yoruba speaking groups. These people bear some of the most uncommon first names and surnames. They are rich in culture and have versatile meanings and pronunciations. We mention the African last names with their meanings and origins to help you learn about their rich history. But 32 years later the late Laurent Kabila kicked Mobutu out, and re-baptised the country the Democratic Republic of Congo. In the Wolof language, Alioune means lofty or sublime. You cant find them anywhere else. 80. 62. There are ten countries found in this part of the continent, not counting the island of Madagascar. Omenma It is a nickname which also functions as the last name. Quansah Origin: Ghanaian. If you purchase using the buy now button we may earn a small commission. 38. Adebisi is one of the many African names that mean king. 33. 35. If you are looking for more unique names, you can look at our articles on South African Names and African Last Names. 101. It means one who is invulnerable to dark magic. The Akan name is widely used among the girls. Dlamini (Etswana origin) meaning "royalty". 42. Its other variants are Orjea, Orjee, Orjey, Orjie, and Orjy. From the time I got to know about the traditional meaning of my name, I developed a sense of responsiblity to my Family, my heritage and my culture. Good question! Wairimu Kuria, Kenyan in US, African names comes with great pride and power. You will find the place of origin and the meaning of each name in this list too. Examples are Afrikaans, Xhosa, Zulu, Ndebele, and Tswana to name a few. One of the most popular and optimistic Xhosa names is Gcobani, which means be joyful. Onai Having its origin in the Shona group of Zimbabwe, the name means a call to observe or to see that which has happened. Kidadl has lots of great names articles to inspire you. 85. 25. In the 1700s some Portuguese sailors were s. Conteh is a common last name adopted throughout the African mainland. 29. Meaning: Lion., 3. 44. 14. Most Popular African Last Names Or Surnames. 12. Akpan Origin: Nigerian. Baharia (Swahili origin) means one who sails, common among the people of Tanzania and Kenya. Meaning: Handsome, manly, or strong.. 96. 4. It is suitable for both boys and girls. 64. South african last names starting with R Abioye Origin: Nigerian. Meaning: Guided by God.. 35. Chimwemwe (Malawi origin) means pleasure or joy. Nnadi is an extremely common surname used in much African community. It is common both as a surname and a nickname. Kenyetta (Kenya origin) meaning "musician". Helping or aiding others is a common theme found among Afrikaans names. 64. Mensah One of the most popular African names, Mensah comes from the Akan group, and means third child born to a couple. Its female variant is Owusua. What a wonderful name; Maduabuchi Onwuachimba (Igbo-Nigeria). 89. It is primarily masculine in essence. Check your inbox for your latest news from us. It is generally considered to be a masculine name. Motaung meaning "lions". The above list includes all the meaningful surnames with their unique meanings. As an Amazon Associate, Kidadl earns from qualifying purchases. Stemming from the Yoruba group, Adeleke means the king/crown/royalty triumphed. 74. Her love for content creation made her pivot her career from science to writing. Tutu (Subiya origin) meaning "wealth". We hope you liked our selection. Katlego (Tswana origin) means success. Dlamini: Another among South African names of Etswana origin that means royalty. 2. I maintain the list. It is a popular female given and last name among the Yoruba people, and means a child to be cherished or pampered. Negga/Nega Origin: Ethiopian. It can be translated into the land is active. De Beer Afrikaans. March 03 , 2023. It is actually an oxymoron, a religious friend has suggested I change my name BUT, why should I? 23. 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. Hlengiwe (South African origin) means redeemed. 67. Toure (Soninke origin) meaning "elephant". Discover the ethnic origin and meaning of last names. Buhari is one of South Africa's orthodox surnames. 52. 91. Adby Origin: Nigerian (Yoruba). Akpabio (Nigerian origin) means "leader" or "noble," and is found among the Ibibio people. Many African last names reference wealth and the aristocracy. Zivai Another name that originates from the Shona group is Zivai, which means you must know. For instance in Togo, apart from their original meanings, those names also have other interesting meanings. Kidadl is independent and to make our service free to you the reader we are supported by advertising. 99. Meaning: Flower or blossom., 4. Maybe you have also been intrigued by these African surnames; below we give you a list of some wonderful surnames borne by Africans. 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. It is usually given to boys. 35. We can be baptised another Kenyan/African and more meaningful name than being another of the somewhat bland Peters and Janes of the world. 54. This is one of the beauties associated with African surnames. This name is also predominantly given to boys. Names such as Mwanajuma Friday, Esi Sunday, Khamisi Thursday, and Wekesa harvest time refer to the time or day when the child was born. A name that praises God is Chidubem, which means God is my guide in Igbo. Generally given to boys, it has its origin in the Amharic language, and means trinity. 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. Madhurima takes a keen interest in parenting and lifestyle. 45. Pages in category "Afrikaans-language surnames" The following 148 pages are in this category, out of 148 total. Behind the Name: Ndebele Given Names. Adomako Origin: Ghanaian. Meaning: Destined for greatness. Gbeho Origin: Ghanaian. It is important to know that there are over 10 official languages in South Africa. Uduike (Igbo origin) meaning "full of power". Fungai (South African origin) means think. As Africa is made up of 54 countries (making it the second-largest continent in the world), its naming systems are diverse. Ayodele (Yoruba origin) meaning "joy comes home". This last name is commonly used by joint families in Africa. Get high-quality PDF version by clicking below. It is usually given to boys. 95. From the first tribes on the earth to modern-day societies, African names represent ancestral meanings. This last name originates from the Igbo group. 22. Abdallah Origin: An Arabic name found through Sudan. Owusu (Ghanaian origin) means "strong will and determined". Zadzisai (Shona origin) meaning "fulfillment of a promise". The name is an invocation to Ijebu, the god of wealth. Bankole (Nigerian origin) means "help me build my house," from the Yoruba ethnic group. Here you will find some great Nigerian last names, like Abimbola which means "born into wealth" and Obi, which means "heart". It means one who has many people to call for help, and is considered typically male. 86. In many languages of Ethiopia for example, typical names are compounded of the divinity and some aspect of it. 100 Unique and Most Common African Last Names (Surnames), While doing our research for African Names we found these interesting aricle parts and we feel like sharing them with you, My name (Noxolo) means peace in Xhosa. 49. For more parenting tips and tricks, find us on Pinterest: Are you a writer, expert, or influencer? Igwe (Igbo origin) meaning "heaven". It is considered to be fundamentally masculine. It is now common in South Africa. Ghana's founding father Kwame Nkrumah chose to name his two sons after fellow African leaders. Sandbox Learning is part of Sandbox & Co., a digital learning company. Africa is the land of abundant natural resources and cultural diversity. 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 .