Uduike Udu means a clay pot to fill water, and Ike means strength. Biko (Bantu origin) meaning 'a person of the people". 8. Ambuya Mlambo was a groundbreaking broadcaster and television host best known for her programs geared towards children. 83. 35. Originating from the Ibibio group, Akpabio means leader, noble or prime. A hopeful name that reflects an uncertain situation is Biobaku, which means if he or she does not die. For example Gebre-Egziabher in the Ethiopian/Eritrean languages of Amharic/Tigrinya means Servant of God and those are Christian names. Ahishakiye (Rwandan origin) meaning "whenever God wants". Tawfiq Means an opportunity or chance to gain knowledge or succeed in life. Meaning: Handsome, manly, or strong.. 101. 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. Buhle is a common surname among people who's identity is attached to the Xhosa clan. Because I am a petite and sweet-looking woman, I find myself often underestimated and underminded. Adomako Origin: Ghanaian. See a medical professional for personalized consultation. 19. Mlambo (Xhosa origin) meaning "river". This name was adopted in the 17th century by Wesselius Praetorius as a Latin translation of his previous surname Schulte. Negga (Ethiopian origin) means "the night has passed". Achebe is an invocation of a deity, which means the Goddess protects. Subscribe for virtual tools, STEM-inspired play, Mines Margaret, or Latin for some Catholics. Theophilus Khumalo is a retired South African football player, best known for playing in South Africa's national team. 7. We hope you love our recommendations for products and services! The surname Keita gained prominence after the rule of the Keita dynasty from the 11th to the 17th century. 12. Onai (Shona origin) meaning "call to observe". Toure (Ghanaian origin) means "elephant," from the Soninke word. Discover the ethnic origin and meaning of last names. Last names or family names are surnames that identify a person's family, community, tribe, or village. 52. 67. 60. Mulder. 5. Nwachukwu (Igbo origin) meaning "child of God". It means sturdy or mighty tree. We mention the African last names with their meanings and origins to help you learn about their rich history. Madhurima has completed her Masters in Biochemistry from North Eastern Hill University (NEHU), Shillong. Masondo (Zulu origin) meaning "wheels". Deressa (Ethiopian origin) the meaning of this name isnt quite clear. These countries have their own beautiful languages, resulting in a range of different names that are unique to this region. Etiename (Ibibio origin) meaning "benevolent". Radebe (Zulu origin) meaning "big tree". Your partner in parenting from baby name inspiration to college planning. 94. 90. Here is a list of common South African names that have a rich history and lineage. 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. Nkrumah is not alone in fostering the identity of Africanism the late President Mobutu Sese Seko dropped his own Christian name and even renamed his country the then Belgian Congo which became Zaire. Masoja Msiza is a South African artist known for appearing in the hit telenovela 'Uzalo'. We try our very best, but cannot guarantee perfection. In abreviation ABUCHI for my Western folks, short and simple isnt it. Akinyi is another popular last name in Africa that means born in the morning.. 91. 35. West Africa is home to some of the most popular African last names. Cisse (Madinka origin) meaning "professor". Tambo meaning "rope". Nelson Mandela was the first president of South Africa in the post-Apartheid era. Kikelomo (Yoruba origin) meaning "to be cherished". One of the many surnames that appreciate the divine is a Yoruba name Folorunsho, which means under Gods protection. Kidadl has lots of great names articles to inspire you. 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. The Xhosa people use their family name or clan name. 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. From lino cutting to surfing to childrens mental health, their hobbies and interests range far and wide. You need to be quite careful and focused to be able to produce these African last names as they should be. 15. Even though both of these peoples reside in South Africa, their customs are radically different. Abara: Originating from the Igbo group of West Africa, Abara means 'spirit'. She writes baby name articles for MomJunction. 87. 68. 74. Abbas Origin: An Arabic name found throughout Algeria. Igwe Among the Igbo groups, Igwe means heaven, which is considered the highest realm of existence. Such a family name is always very outstanding and popular in such a community. 32. Okeke (Igbo origin) meaning "born on Eke". It is usually considered a male name. 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. Their ancestors arrived in South Africa through three different routes: 1. It means "leaves" (verb) in Swahili. Common South African surnames. In the 1700s some Portuguese sailors were s. The first name is Bright. South african last names starting with R It means he came in a joyful time or the king/crown/royalty meets joy in Yoruba. 97. Chedjou Origin: Cameroonian. Kasongo (Congolese origin) meaning "bushbuck". Orji Another conventional name that praises physical strength is Orji. Kimathi (Kenyan origin) meaning "earnest provider". 70. Nnadi -This name from the Igbo tribes means my God is alive or my father lives. 1. Ghirmai (Unknown origin) means my majesty. Another name that originates from the Shona group is Zivai, which means you must know. Ghana's founding father Kwame Nkrumah chose to name his two sons after fellow African leaders. The Igbo people do not use family names. Answer (1 of 4): Most of these surnames are not Hispanic at all, but Lusophone (Portuguese). 36. It is generally regarded as suitable for boys. Uduike (Igbo origin) meaning "full of power". 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. Dlamini: Another among South African names of Etswana origin that means royalty. Madhurima takes a keen interest in parenting and lifestyle. Elmi (Somali origin) means knowledge. The name can be translated as fullness of power. Last names come from indigenous, colonialist, and diasporic roots. 66. The people can be divided into over a thousand different ethnic groups. It is important to know that there are over 10 official languages in South Africa. 53. Olatunji Usually used as a given name and the last name, Olatunji means wealth awakes again. hausas are the most populous group in nigeria. Mazigh (Arabic origin) means free man. Kidadl is independent and to make our service free to you the reader we are supported by advertising. Ayodele (Yoruba origin) meaning "joy comes home". 3. It means born into wealth or born into high status. Ele It is common both as a surname and a nickname. For example: Sefu sword and Tau lion (masculine) and Marjani coral and Ife love (feminine). Kaloki (Kenyan origin) the meaning isnt quite known. Adebisi (Nigerian origin) meaning "we/the King gave birth to more," from the Yoruba ethnic group. Dumisani (South African origin) means praise in Zulu and Ndebele. 88. What we suggest is selected independently by the Kidadl team. 2. Albert Luthuli was an African Nobel Peace Prize winner, teacher, and anti-apartheid activist. Do you know what or where the last name Uwagbal or Ofenjiaguan came from or what it means. Desmond Tutu is a renowned clerk and theologian, known for his work in the human rights sector. 85. Sefako meaning "hail". Fungai (South African origin) means think. Akosua Adoma Owusu is an African-American producer and filmmaker focused on creating content that depicts the collision of different identities. Gowon (Tiv origin) meaning "the rainmaker". It is suitable for both boys and girls. FamilyEducation does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Mensah is a common last name used by families residing in various parts of Africa, such as South Africa. You have subscribed to: Remember that you can always manage your preferences or unsubscribe through the link at the foot of each newsletter. It must be noted though that English white South Africans, Coloureds and very few blacks have "Afrikaans" surnames. 74. By joining Kidadl you agree to Kidadls Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receiving marketing communications from Kidadl. Hamadache (Algerian origin) the meaning is unknown. 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. Good question! It is generally regarded as suitable for boys. Mangosuthu Buthelezi was an African tribal leader and one of the founders of the IFP (Inkatha Freedom Party). Many Swahili last names pay homage to the day or time that a person was born. 20. Agrinya (Nigerian origin) means "warrior," found amongst the Ogoja people of Nigeria. Over nine years, she has helped various brands with compelling, well-researched, and unique content. Afrikaans names shared by family members. 34. 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. Ray Phiri was a Malawian immigrant who went on to become one of South Africa's most renowned Jazz musicians. 53. Quansah Origin: Ghanaian. It is suitable for both boys and girls. I just feel happy to say that this programme of conscientization is excellent. It is usually given to boys. Okoro - Origin: Nigerian (Urhobo). de Klerk. On this Wikipedia the language links are at the top of the page across from the article title. Anyone using the information provided by Kidadl does so at their own risk and we can not accept liability if things go wrong. It means supreme or a great warrior and is usually given to boys. There are 54 countries, between 900 and 1,500 languages, and several thousand ethnic groups in Africa, according to Britannica. Dalitso (Malawi origin) means blessing. Zuma meaning "of God". Haliche (Berber origin) the meaning of this name isnt quite certain. Chibuzo is an African last name that means God give me directions. 75. It means one who has many people to call for help, and is considered typically male. Abioye (Yoruba origin) meaning "son of royalty". Here is a list of popular South African last names. 69. 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. Amahle (Zulu origin) means the beautiful ones. Kaizer Motaung is the founder and manager director of Kaizer Chiefs FC, a South African soccer team. 38. Dawit (Amharic origin) means beloved. Bilaal (Somali origin) means moistening. Sarpong (Ghanaian origin) means "great warrior" or "supreme," found among the Ashanti group. 83. Jomana (Arabic origin) means a pearl. Jelani -One of the given and last names for boys among the Swahili tribes, Jelani means mighty or full of strength. Boipelo (Botswanan origin) means proud. Kasongo Origin: Congolese. Akpabio (Nigerian origin) means "leader" or "noble," and is found among the Ibibio people. Dogo (Hausa origin) meaning "little". It is usually given to boys. Okafor (Igbo origin) meaning "born on Afor". It is an Igbo surname and nickname, which conveys pride. 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. Umburter (Tiv origin) meaning "remember the father". Meaning: Bushbuck.. Dogo It is one of the most widely used Hausa nicknames which means little. Keita meaning "blessing". how do go about changing your name to an African name? The above list includes all the meaningful surnames with their unique meanings. 80. You cant find them anywhere else. My family name has a click C as well. A well-liked Yoruba male name, Abioye means born into royalty or the son of royalty. Meaning: Born during the festival or war. Examples are Afrikaans, Xhosa, Zulu, Ndebele, and Tswana to name a few. Among the Xhosa and Ndebele groups of people, Buhle is a popular name which means handsome or beautiful. The northern part of Africa, according to the UN, is made up of seven countries. By joining Kidadl you agree to Kidadls Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receiving marketing communications from Kidadl. Name and surname: NE NTULI STUDENT NUMBER: 60283858 UNIQUE NUMBER: 888570 MODULE: PVL 2601 ASSINGMENT 1 SEMESTER 2 2020 Question 1 a. Olowe -It shows the unity of the families in the Yoruba groups. Your use of the site indicates your agreement to be bound by our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Another expression of a characteristic trait, Asaju means leader of warriors, and is considered primarily male. 24. Kidadl has a number of affiliate partners that we work with including Amazon. 62. 34. 61. Popularised by celebrity rapper Kanye West, the Igbo name Kanye means lets give or to give honor or tribute. 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You have subscribed to: Remember that you can always manage your preferences or unsubscribe through the link at the foot of each newsletter. http://www.expressos. But 32 years later the late Laurent Kabila kicked Mobutu out, and re-baptised the country the Democratic Republic of Congo. 64. 66. 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. I am a product of religious parents and culture; hence I shall carry this name, however unfitting it seems, to the grave. It is usually given to boys. Umburter is one of the most prominent African last names from the Tiv language. Meaning: Guided by God.. Originating from the Igbo group of West Africa, Abara means spirit. We recognise that not all activities and ideas are appropriate and suitable for all children and families or in all circumstances. This does not influence our choices. 58. It is a conventional surname across various African people and means one who is born on orie market day. It shows the unity of the families in the Yoruba groups. In the Tamazight language, Amaziane means young or little. Nomzamo Mbatha is a South African businesswoman, actress, and human rights activist. We hope you liked our selection. It means one who has many people to call for help, and is considered typically male. 24. 63. It also functions both as the last name and a surname. 62. It means mine is worthy of thanks or gratitude, and is suitable for both boys and girls. Themba Ndaba is a renowned South African director who selected the cast of 'Zone 14' and 'Machine Gun Preacher'. It has its roots in Yoruba and it means a lot of wealth. Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma is an anti-apartheid activist and politician, who worked under Nelson Mandela as the South African Minister of Health. Abuchi, USA, I have a western surname, presumably that of the slavemaster of my forebears. Thank you! 81. Pretorius Southern African, Afrikaans. Realistically, there is no better description of diversity than with the African people and their last names. My name is Kwena and it means crocodile. Anyone using the information provided by Kidadl does so at their own risk and we can not accept liability if things go wrong. 86. 13. 55. Let us know your favorites in the comment section. Abebe Origin: Ethiopian. Vocabulary words are also often used as given names. Behind the Name: Ndebele Given Names. Africas different groups and tribes represent its cultural diversity and rich tradition. The accuracy of these name definitions cannot be guaranteed. There we go! It means one who acts at the time of scarcity. They are rich in culture and have versatile meanings and pronunciations. Mwanajuma (Swahili origin) meaning "born on Friday". Igwe is one of the most common surnames found in the Igbo community. 89. Quansah (Ghanaian origin) meaning "God is watching". Shaka Zulu was the leader of the Zulu Kingdom in the early 19th century. South Africa is full of so many diverse people. Siddig (Arabic origin) meaning friend. Please note: prices are correct and items are available at the time the article was published. 3. My name is meaningful (in your Gods name Im happy is the direct translation of my first and last names taken together). The name originates from Bemba and it means origin. 1. If you purchase using the buy now button we may earn a small commission. Having its origin in Yoruba, Awolowo means the oracle has dignity. Commonly used as a male name in Nigeria, Anenih means God bearing name. Ihejirika -It is an Igbo surname and nickname, which conveys pride. Rajnandini is an art lover and enthusiastically likes to spread her knowledge. Boujettif (Archaic origin) means the family of the son of the clever head. 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. We can be baptised another Kenyan/African and more meaningful name than being another of the somewhat bland Peters and Janes of the world. Stefanie is a freelance parenting writer and blogger, and has published works on other publications such as Motherly. 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. Surnames serve as a tool to identify our ancestry. Kidadl has a number of affiliate partners that we work with including Amazon. Luckhoff South African. The Akan name is widely used among the girls. Amaike (Igbo origin) meaning "the compound stays strong". Much like Scotland, most last names can date back to a particular patriarch within the tribe that which the name was based. Mambwe (Zambian origin) meaning "the Lord is good". Ayenew (Ethiopian origin) means to renew. It is usually given to boys. 71. Meaning: Unknown. Meaning: Destined for greatness. It is suitable for both boys and girls. This diversity is evident in all facets of their existence and it is very prominent. Buhari is one of South Africa's orthodox surnames. Nkosi (Nguni origin) meaning "king". Copyright 2011 - 2023 MomJunction Private Limited. Generally used as a masculine name, it means we have increased or multiplied or we are many among the Shona group of Zimbabwe. Subscribe for virtual tools, STEM-inspired play, creative tips and more. Among the Shona people of Zimbabwe, Anotidaishe means the Lord loves us. Onai Having its origin in the Shona group of Zimbabwe, the name means a call to observe or to see that which has happened. Traditional African given names often reflect the circumstances at the time of birth. Their names are based on male lineage. It is a favored name for boys among people of Yoruba lineage. Igbinedion It has its origins in the Benin culture and means seeking refuge in the elders protection. Its other variants are Wonai and Vonai. 36. This name is suitable for both genders. It is considered a male name. It is now common in South Africa. Aguta is included in the list of conservative surnames found in the African mainland. Igwe (Igbo origin) meaning "heaven". 10. 82. 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. Other variants are Efua, Afua, and its male version is Kofi. Hlengiwe (South African origin) means redeemed. If anything the french names have remained the same and are quite common in South Africa. Apply this search to the user-submitted names. I am certain that many other cultures equally create such names. Okoye -It is a conventional surname across various African people and means 'one who is born on orie market day'. 9. Acheampong (Ashanti origin) this last names means "destined for greatness," found among the Ashanti people of Ghana. 18. De Beer is a Dutch and Afrikaans surname, meaning "the bear". Most Popular African Last Names Or Surnames, Infographic: Top African Surnames Rich In History And Culture. 79. This name is primarily given to male members. 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. Alinafe (Malawi origin) means he is with us. Owusu meaning "strong-minded and determined". 68. creative tips and more. Chidiozie is a long-established surname in many African communities. Similar to the name Adewole, which means the king/crown has entered the house, it has its origin from the Yoruba groups. It took me most of my life to come to this understanding about my name. Badu Origin: Ghanaian. Lupondo South African. Its other variants are Orjea, Orjee, Orjey, Orjie, and Orjy. Meaning: We added to the crown.. Medupe (Tswana origin) meaning "gentle rain". It is considered a male name. Buthelezi (Zulu origin) meaning "chief". 71. Meaning: Mercy. Igwe is an extremely popular surname used by various religious subsects. 25. 19. Meaning: One who possesses a clever head. 56. Abiodun (Nigerian origin) meaning "born during festivities," and is from the Yoruba ethnic group. Dogo (Nigerian origin) means "little," found among the Hausa in the northern part of Nigeria. It means may I not lack a family or a home. Gavin Wood and Felix February shares more about the idea behind the Slave Calendar that explores the history of surnames of Capetonians. Sekou Nkrumah was named after Guinea's first President Sekou Toure, while Gamal Nkrumah got his name from Egyptian President Gamal . Quansah is one of the many surnames that makes reference to religion and a higher power. 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. 16. There were an estimated 300,000 white South Africans of Portuguese descent in 2010. Among the Hausa tribes of Nigeria, Babangida means the master of the house. Abara (Igbo origin) meaning "spirit". The culture and diversity of the African continent are seen through its wide range of last names. 65. Onyeneme It is a name that compliments a person, and it means one who does well. 72. what are the parameters you have used to arrive at this results ? A name that acknowledges a divine concession is Chukwunyelu, which means God gives in Igbo. Rothschild. 58. 26. Charlize (South African origin) most common as a first name, this is the feminine version of Charles made popular by the actress Charlize Theron. It would be great if you could help me out. Playing with names really is part of many African cultures. Archi Gumede was a prominent African politician, lawyer and human rights activist. Chimwemwe (Malawi origin) means pleasure or joy. 76. Last names provide a great bridge to our family's past, and those from Africa are no exception. 44. 33. Omenma It is a nickname which also functions as the last name. Surnames like Abimbola that reference wealth and prosperity are common in South Africa.