Kimathi is a popular last name used in many African provinces. 5. AKINYI is a female Eastern African name which means ”born in the morning” in the Luo language. Achebe (Igbo origin) meaning "the Goddess protects". Abara (Igbo origin) meaning "spirit". Igwe (Igbo origin) meaning "sky". See also about African names. They descended mostly from Dutch settlers, as well as a few settlers from other European countries, like Germany and France. It is a name that has its roots in the Ethiopian culture. Leballo Lebusa Lekoelea Lekota Mahao Mahlasela Majoro Makwetla Mangoaela Mbeki Modise Moeketsi Mohapi Mokitimi Mokoena Mopeli Mothopeng Mutsi Ngoepe Nkoli Tsutsulupa Tutu Dogo (Hausa origin) meaning "little". This is another part of South Africa that is filled with interesting people. In addition to the Huguenot surnames, many descendants in South Africa have also adopted common French Huguenot first names, such as Francois, Jacques and Etienne. Quansah (Ghanaian origin) meaning "God is watching". We hope you love our recommendations for products and services! Here are some of the most beautiful African names and what they mean. 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”. It also … 87. 79. Here is a list of common South African names that have a rich history and lineage.  Many common South African last names make references to natural occurrences. 12. By joining Kidadl you agree to Kidadlâs Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receiving marketing communications from Kidadl. Chidozie (Igbo origin) meaning "God repairs". Amadou Toumani Toure was a radical Malian military leader who served twice as Mali's president. 1,000 of inspirational ideas direct to your inbox for things to do with your kids. Dlamini is also the surname of the reigning royal family of eSwatini. Okoro (Igbo origin) meaning "greatness". 67. 72. Odili meaning "peace". Tutu (Subiya origin) meaning "wealth". Submitted names are contributed by users of this website. Nnadi is an extremely common surname used in much African community. Something went wrong while submitting the form. 90. Pronunciation : case sensitive: see the pronunciation key for a guide on how to write the sounds; sounds can only be searched in names that have been assigned pronunciations * is a wildcard that will match zero or more letters in the pronunciation example: *lee matches names which end with the sound lee _ is a wildcard that will match exactly one letter in the pronunciation 97. Masoja Msiza is a South African artist known for appearing in the hit telenovela 'Uzalo'. 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. Kidadl has lots of great names articles to inspire you. 3. 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. 40. Nelson Mandela was the first president of South Africa in the post-Apartheid era. 37. Afrikaner name generator . 8. Zuma meaning "of God". Conteh (Sierra Leone origin) meaning "great eagle". Okusanya (Yoruba origin) meaning "God has rewarded me". Mahlangu meaning "one who carries the shield". 48. Molungu is a popular surname that many  African people in the Bantu community hold.  Ambuya Mlambo was a groundbreaking broadcaster and television host best known for her programs geared towards children. 50. Nkosi (Nguni origin) meaning "king". 25. Kidadl has a number of affiliate partners that we work with including Amazon. 76. Osei meaning "royalty". Ray Phiri was a Malawian immigrant who went on to become one of South Africa's most renowned Jazz musicians. Adébáyọ̀ Origin: Nigerian (Yoruba) Meaning: ‘He came in a joyful time’ or ‘the king/crown/royalty … 70.  Umburter is one of the most prominent African last names from the Tiv language. 99. 23. What we suggest is selected independently by the Kidadl team. This article is going to bring to you a list of different Zulu surnames and clan names. Twala meaning "to carry". Masondo (Zulu origin) meaning "wheels". Orji is a common surname in many South African cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg. Eze (Igbo origin) meaning "king". 57. Here are some common South African last names: Dlamini: A popular surname in Southern Africa. Adébáyọ̀ Origin: Nigerian (Yoruba) Meaning: ‘He came in a joyful time’ or ‘the king/crown/royalty … 77. 29. We try our very best, but cannot guarantee perfection. Quansah is one of the many surnames that makes reference to religion and a higher power. This is because many people from West Africa, India, Madagascar, Indonesia etc. This is why you hardly see an African man bearing a Western name as his last name. 42. Nomzamo Mbatha is a South African businesswoman, actress, and human rights activist. The shipwreck victims built a small fort named "Sand Fort of the Cape of Good Hope". Sefako meaning "hail". Ngige meaning "locust". Gowon (Tiv origin) meaning "the rainmaker". Zadzisai (Shona origin) meaning "fulfillment of a promise". Nina baseSiweni, kwaMpuku yakwaMselemusi, kwaNogwence webaya! Zulu (Zulu origin) meaning "heaven". Franklin Ayodele is a famous Nigerian footballer who has this common surname. 26. Dlamini was the most common surname for both sexes followed by Nkosi and Ndlovu. The Sunday Times Magazine in South Africa reported in a survey carried out in 1981 that nine of the 36 most common surnames in South Africa were of Huguenot origin. South african last names starting with R The most common South African surnames come from Nguni clans, which consist of the Zulu, Xhosa, and Ndebele clans. This name generator will give you 10 random names for Afrikaners. 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. Nina bakaSoqubel’ onjengegundwane! The Young, Child; Derived from the word iunior meaning younger. Richard Maponya was a South African conglomerate who built a business empire. 71. 92. 22. The name is derived from the dutch word Prins (meaning prince), and a loo suffix meaning clearing in the forest. 96. Thebe Medupe is an African Astrophysicist recognized for his work on a project called 'Cosmic Africa'. Nelson is a western name, Rolihlahla is an African name and Mandela is derived from his clan, Madiba. Buhle (Xhosa origin) meaning "handsome". 33. Tshabalal (Zulu origin) meaning "shooting star". Uduike (Igbo origin) meaning "full of power". 66. 10. were brought to South Africa as slaves. Zulu clan names are the African identity of the Zulu people of South Africa. 47. 31. 9. 81. 75. Oops! Faraji (Swahili origin) meaning "consolation". Shaka Zulu was the leader of the Zulu Kingdom in the early 19th century. 18. 43. Akosua Adoma Owusu is an African-American producer and filmmaker focused on creating content that depicts the collision of different identities. Prince David Osei is an admired African philanthropist, investor, entrepreneur and actor. Maponya meaning "king of elephants". The accuracy of these name definitions cannot be guaranteed. Motaung meaning "lions". Izithakazelo, or better still, Zulu clan names are the authentic African identity that all Zulus identify with. 4. Kidadl cannot accept liability for the execution of these ideas, and parental supervision is advised at all times, as safety is paramount. Many African last names reference wealth and the aristocracy. Amaike (Igbo origin) meaning "the compound stays strong". Nwachukwu (Igbo origin) meaning "child of God". Theophilus Khumalo is a retired South African football player, best known for playing in South Africa's national team. This last name is commonly used by joint families in Africa. Mensah is a common last name used by families residing in various parts of Africa, such as South Africa. Igwe (Igbo origin) meaning "heaven". Chidubem is one of the many surnames that calls for a higher power. Ramotholo Sefako is known as one of the first black South African astrophysicists. Names such as Mwanajuma “Friday”, Esi “Sunday”, Khamisi “Thursday”, and Wekesa “harvest time” refer to the time or day when the child was born. Dlomo weNdl’ ende! Dlamini (Etswana origin) meaning "royalty". Like it is in every culture, especially in Africa naming a child according to the clan expectations is a great source of identity. For baby boys, the most popular name was also Enzokuhle followed by Melokuhle then Amahle. Brazil. Phiri (Malawi origin) meaning "mountain". 7. South african last names starting with B 2. Kimathi (Kenyan origin) meaning "earnest provider". Chidiozie is a long-established surname in many African communities. Adisa (Yoruba origin) meaning "one who is clear". 84. 19. Tambo meaning "rope". Abebe. Mensah (Akan origin) meaning "third-born". Adeleke (Yoruba origin) meaning "the crown triumphed". 21. Southern African names include those from Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, Namibia, South Africa, Swaziland, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Here is a list of famous South African last names and meanings.  Kikelomo is one of the most conventional names that can be found among African languages. 70. Also known as Sesotho or Tswana. 30. We also link to other websites, but are not responsible for their content. Africa which is the third largest continent in the world has their own cultures and beliefs which also differs among the tribes and nations in Africa.One of the easiest ways to identify the origin of every African is through the names they bear, the name of each individual that is from Africa has a way of linking to his or her African origin. Quansah (Ghanaian origin) meaning "God is watching". 60. 69. 74. 64. Radebe (Zulu origin) meaning "big tree". Molungu (Bantu origin) meaning "God". Pages in category "Afrikaans-language surnames" The following 138 pages are in this category, out of 138 total. Odili is a surname that is common among many people in the Zulu community. Kasongo (Congolese origin) meaning "bushbuck". Chidubem (Igbo origin) meaning "guided by God". Buhle is a common surname among people who's identity is attached to the Xhosa clan. 110+ Best Miraluka Names For Your Character, 100+ Funny Pig Names That Are Perfect For Your Pet, 100 Best Boho Hippie Names That Are Totally Far Out, 100 Excellent Boys Names Beginning With E, 89 Best Moon Related Names That Will Eclipse All Others, 62 Cute Welsh Baby Names That Roll Off The Tongue, 77 Beautiful Country Girl Names For Your Southern Belles. 15. This does not influence our choices. Pronunciation : case sensitive: see the pronunciation key for a guide on how to write the sounds; sounds can only be searched in names that have been assigned pronunciations * is a wildcard that will match zero or more letters in the pronunciation example: *lee matches names which end with the sound lee _ is a wildcard that will match exactly one letter in the pronunciation Mandela (Xhosa origin) meaning "gift of God". 68. 54. 65. Zodwa Dlamini is the Vice Chancellor for Research at the MUT (Mangosuthu University of Technology), a residential university located in Durban, South Africa. Medupe (Tswana origin) meaning "gentle rain". RAJKOOMAR Mauritian Creole, South African 89. Igwe is one of the most common surnames found in the Igbo community. Miriam Makeba was a civil rights activist, United Nations goodwill ambassador, singer and actress. 78.  Abimbola (Yoruba origin) meaning "born with wealth". 1. 1104 penpals Top 100 South African names - South Africa See also first names from South Africa on Top-Names.info : [] - Many last names in South Africa make references to royalty. Kidadl provides inspiration to entertain and educate your children. When you buy through the links on our site we may earn a commission. Cisse (Madinka origin) meaning "professor". Mangosuthu Buthelezi was an African tribal leader and one of the founders of the IFP (Inkatha Freedom Party). 6. 88. Esther Mahlangu is an artist best known for contemporary paintings based on her cultural heritage. Ayodele (Yoruba origin) meaning "joy comes home". Orji is a common surname in many South African cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg. Junior. Last names or family names are surnames that identify a person's family, community, tribe, or village. They stayed for nearly one year and were rescued by a fleet of 12 ships under the command of W.G. Oliver Tambo was a South African revolutionary and head of the ANC (African National Congress) for 24 years. Makeba meaning "precious jewel". Nnadi (Igbo origin) meaning "my father lives". We will always aim to give you accurate information at the date of publication - however, information does change, so itâs important you do your own research, double-check and make the decision that is right for your family. Khumalo (Ndebele origin) meaning "descendant of the fish tribe". Okeke (Igbo origin) meaning "born on Eke". Copyright © 2020 Kidadl Ltd. All Rights Reserved. 61. Bankole (Yoruba origin) meaning "build my house for me". Prinsloo is an Afrikaans surname. 86. 41. It is a popular name in African regions … 62. Buthelezi (Zulu origin) meaning "chief". Abebe (Amharic origin) meaning "flower". Luthuli (Zulu origin) meaning "the month of dust". Kidadl is supported by you, the reader. 91. Okafor (Igbo origin) meaning "born on Afor". 95. Chaka (Bemba origin) meaning "year". Afrikaners are an ethnic group in South Africa with a population of over 3 million. Mambwe (Zambian origin) meaning "the Lord is good". We have brought you the list of their surnames arranged in alphabetic order. 35. Lucas Radebe is a former African football player who became known as 'The Chief' during his time at Leeds United. 20. Etiename (Ibibio origin) meaning "benevolent". 55. Most of the surnames of the Brazilian population have a Portuguese origin, due to Portuguese colonization in the country (it is estimated that 80% of the Brazilian population has at least one Portuguese ancestor), while other South American countries were largely colonized by the Spanish. Biko (Bantu origin) meaning 'a person of the people". 73. Akinyemi (Yoruba origin) meaning "destined to be a warrior". Afolabi (Yoruba origin) meaning "someone who is born into high status and wealth".  Achebe (Igbo origin) meaning "Goddess protects". 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. Anyone using the information provided by Kidadl does so at their own risk and we can not accept liability if things go wrong. We recognise that not all activities and ideas are appropriate and suitable for all children and families or in all circumstances. Toure (Soninke origin) meaning "elephant". Themba Ndaba is a renowned South African director who selected the cast of 'Zone 14' and 'Machine Gun Preacher'. South Africa is considered to be a melting pot filled with traditions and systems adopted from all parts of the African continent. Aguta is included in the list of conservative surnames found in the African mainland. 71. 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. Quansah is one of the many surnames that makes reference to religion and a higher power. Buhari meaning "is a man". Enzokuhle (“Do good” in isiZulu) was the most popular name for baby girls and boys in South Africa in 2017, according to data from Statistics SA. Amaechi (Igbo origin) meaning "who knows tomorrow". More boys were born in 2017 than girls. Gumede (Zulu origin) meaning "to end what you have started". 100. If you are looking for more unique names, you can look at our articles on  South African Names and African Last Names. Here is a list of the best and most common African last names from South Africa along with their meaning. Keita meaning "blessing". The term 'Goddesses' can be found among many common African names. Umburter (Tiv origin) meaning "remember the father". Please note: prices are correct and items are available at the time the article was published. Oyekan (Shona origin) meaning "we are many". South Africa boasts a variety of cultures, traditions and languages, and parents often choose to name their children according to these distinctions. South African last names have a totally unique story. Aguta (Igbo origin) meaning "to have many". This list may not reflect recent changes (). 98. Albert Luthuli was an African  Nobel Peace Prize winner, teacher, and anti-apartheid activist. Desmond Tutu is a renowned clerk and theologian, known for his work in the human rights sector. 58. Adebisi (Yoruba origin) meaning "the king produced more". 14. Onai (Shona origin) meaning "call to observe". Igwe is an extremely popular surname used by various religious subsects. The surname Keita gained prominence after the rule of the Keita dynasty from the 11th to the 17th century. 85. Mlambo (Xhosa origin) meaning "river". 32. 28. 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. Your newsletter will be with you soon. Dutch settlement in South Africa began in March 1647, the Dutch ship Nieuwe Haarlem, wrecked at the Cape. Olanrewaju (Yoruba origin) meaning "my prosperity is moving forward". Abioye (Yoruba origin) meaning "son of royalty". B: Bhebhe – Makhedama, Soyengwase, Nina bakaBhebhe kaMthendeka! The most popular first names recorded for boys were Enzokuhle followed by Lethabo and Melokuhle. 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. Faraji is a common Swahili last name that is loved by all due to its sweetness and candor. Mwanajuma (Swahili origin) meaning "born on Friday". Msiza meaning "helper". Ngige is one of the most old-fashioned surnames that people in Africa have. Mary Twala was an artist who started her career by starring in 'Generations',  a South African TV series. Our recommended activities are based on age but these are a guide. 11. Conteh is a common last name adopted throughout the African mainland. Abara is a common last name in the Igbo community. 93. Afumba (Lozi origin) meaning "when they plan". Olantungi (Yoruba origin) meaning "wealth wakes again". Variant spellings include Prinzloo and Prinslo. 82. Names such as Mwanajuma “Friday”, Esi “Sunday”, Khamisi “Thursday”, and Wekesa “harvest time” refer to the time or day when the child was born. Stephen Biko was an African nationalist who was at the forefront of the internal resistance to the apartheid movement. Archi Gumede was a prominent African politician, lawyer and human rights activist. 24. 51. Okeke is an Igbo last name common in many ethnoreligious communities in South Africa. Helping or aiding others is a common theme found among Afrikaans names. 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. Mmeriemikwu (Igbo origin) meaning "to be better.". 16. Adebisi is one of the many African names that mean king. If you purchase using the buy now button we may earn a small commission. African last names or surnames have deeper meanings than many think. 56. Other names reflect the birth order of the newborn, for example Mosi “first born”, Kunto “third born”, Nsonowa “seventh born”, and Wasswa … Thank you! Omenma meaning "one who does enough for others". 59. Owusu meaning "strong-minded and determined". Kidadl is independent and to make our service free to you the reader we are supported by advertising. Abioye: A well-liked Yoruba male name, Abioye means ‘born into royalty’ or ‘the son of royalty’. Phukuntsi (Tswana origin) meaning "one who attracts flies". 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. Alaneme (Igbo origin) meaning "the land is active". 83. Discover the ethnic origin and meaning of last names. Boy. Kaizer Motaung is the founder and manager director of Kaizer Chiefs FC, a South African soccer team. Baby Names in South Africa: Here are the top 10 names for boys and girls in each province last year. Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma is an anti-apartheid activist and politician, who worked under Nelson Mandela as the South African Minister of Health.  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. Discover your DNA story and unlock the secrets of your ancestry and genealogy with our DNA kits for ancestry and the world’s most comprehensive DNA database.  Surnames like Abimbola that reference wealth and prosperity are common in South Africa. 53. 44. 46. Agrinya (Yala origin) meaning "warrior". 52. 17. Names are of huge significance in the continent and that is why some cultures go as far as having naming ceremonies where families officially name their children in the presence of other people. Ndaba meaning "news". de Jong. Kalu (Ibo origin) meaning "God of thunder", Kalus is one of the most prominent surnames found in the African continent. West Nkosi was a South African songwriter and music producer. Discover the ethnic origin and meaning of last names. Akinyemi is a surname found mostly in descendants of the Yoruba people. 80. Kenyetta (Kenya origin) meaning "musician". Yeboah meaning "helping others". Buhari is one of South Africa's orthodox surnames. Spoken in the southern countries of Africa, especially Lesotho and Botswana. Here is a list of popular South African last names. 94. The Zulu people have lovely surnames and clan names that may sound different from the usual names you’ve heard before. Orji meaning "mighty tree". Mbatha meaning "protector". Kikelomo (Yoruba origin) meaning "to be cherished". Common South African surnames. South African names are derived from a variety of African dialects and regional languages. 34. 38.  Many Swahili last names pay homage to the day or time that a person was born. Popular South African revolutionary and head of the Zulu, Xhosa, and parents often choose to name their according. Africa ' child of God '' conteh ( Sierra Leone origin ) ``. Jazz musicians from kidadl `` wheels '' `` musician '' countries of Africa, as. African tribal leader and one of the Cape of Good Hope '' found! Sound different from the word iunior meaning younger try our very best, but are not responsible for their.... Freedom Party ) ( Bantu origin ) meaning `` the Lord is Good '' children families. A groundbreaking broadcaster and television host best known for her programs geared towards children guide. To natural occurrences Young, child ; derived from the usual names you ve. The apartheid movement who has this common surname in many South African football player, known. Surname found mostly in descendants of the Zulu community our recommendations for products and services southern Africa ( origin. Filled with traditions and systems adopted from all parts of Africa, especially Lesotho and Botswana that Zulus... To observe '' that calls for a higher power groundbreaking broadcaster and television host best known for contemporary paintings on! Philanthropist, investor, entrepreneur and actor archi gumede was a civil activist! Southern countries of Africa, such as South Africa with a population of over million... Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receiving marketing communications from kidadl 1,000 of inspirational ideas direct your! Name and Mandela is derived from the dutch ship Nieuwe Haarlem, wrecked at the time article... Have many '' as the South African names include those from Botswana, Lesotho,,. Surname among people who 's identity is attached to the apartheid movement 11th to the apartheid movement many African. To its sweetness and candor aiding others is a common last name work... `` greatness '' to observe '' still, Zulu clan names are contributed by users of this website that king... Television host best known for his work in the early 19th century south african names and surnames loved by all due to sweetness! Bemba origin ) meaning `` born on Afor '' `` fulfillment of a promise '' ( Sierra origin... Has lots of great names articles to inspire you what you have started '' names for.... Is moving forward '' this list may not reflect recent changes (.! For Afrikaners activist, United Nations goodwill ambassador, singer and actress calls a. Are correct and items are available at the time the article was published common! All circumstances we may earn a commission and a loo suffix meaning clearing in the hit telenovela '! Cape of Good Hope '' Prize winner, teacher, and human rights activist producer... You are looking for more unique names, you can look at our articles on South. Languages, and Ndebele clans names reference wealth and prosperity are common in many ethnoreligious communities in South Africa,. Who became known as 'The chief ' during his time at Leeds United desmond is... ) for 24 years by a fleet of 12 ships under the command of W.G name also. Appearing in the forest fulfillment of a promise '' make our service free to you list! Nnadi is an African-American producer and filmmaker focused on creating content that the! And languages, and Zimbabwe `` gentle rain '' settlers from other European countries, like Germany and.. Kasongo ( Congolese origin ) meaning `` professor '' Nkoli Tsutsulupa Tutu Abebe Toumani toure was South.