Albert Luthuli was an African Nobel Peace Prize winner, teacher, and anti-apartheid activist. Particularly, the African people dont toy with their surnames. 23. Most Popular African Last Names on FamilyEducation: Ba, Ballo, Dial, First Trimester To-Do List: Take Care of Yourself. It is a Dutch/Flemish variant on the word Lowe, meaning Lion. http://www.expressos. Meziane is a variation. Among the Igbo groups, Igwe means heaven, which is considered the highest realm of existence. Kidadl cannot accept liability for the execution of these ideas, and parental supervision is advised at all times, as safety is paramount. Unlike some places, African surnames dont really follow trends or have common features or patterns. Chizimu Origin: Malawian (Lambya). Meaning: The night has passed.. 33. 14. Okoye -It is a conventional surname across various African people and means 'one who is born on orie market day'. Name and surname: NE NTULI STUDENT NUMBER: 60283858 UNIQUE NUMBER: 888570 MODULE: PVL 2601 ASSINGMENT 1 SEMESTER 2 2020 Question 1 a. Obi -A mainstream name among the Igbo surnames in Nigeria, Obi means heart. Oyekan -Generally used as a masculine name, it means we have increased or multiplied or we are many among the Shona group of Zimbabwe. 73. So Ndubueze means that life is king to live is to be a king. 90. Mensah (Akan origin) means "third child," found among the people of Ghana. 56. Thanks! Sekou Nkrumah was named after Guineas first President Sekou Toure, while Gamal Nkrumah got his name from Egyptian President Gamal Abdel Nasser. 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. There is so much authenticity with their naming practices. We hope you love our recommendations for products and services! Etienam Having its roots in Ibibio, the surname or nickname Etienam means a doer of good or benevolent. We also also Afrikaan. The Africans really delve into their culture, language, and ethnicity to bring out tremendous names. 97. It is actually an oxymoron, a religious friend has suggested I change my name BUT, why should I? This category has the following 9 subcategories, out of 9 total. It is suitable for both boys and girls. 41. 47. Ameziane (Tamazight origin) means little or young, this last name is from a language that is mainly spoken in Algeria. how do go about changing your name to an African name? Yusuf The strength, power, influence and devotion. Banchiamalck Dessalegn, Ethiopian in U.S. My name Derefaka figuratively means: Continuing the heritage of our fathers. Brought to South Africa by settlers of French decent some time in the past 300 years. 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. Find out some great southern African names with this list. My family name has a click C as well. It is suitable for boys and girls. Jelani -One of the given and last names for boys among the Swahili tribes, Jelani means mighty or full of strength. Well send you tons of inspiration to help you find a hidden gem in your local area or plan a big day out. There are just too many peculiarities and labels associated with Africa and Africans. 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Medupe (Tswana origin) meaning "gentle rain". 2. Your partner in parenting from baby name inspiration to college planning. Behind the Name: Ndebele Given Names. Abara is a common last name in the Igbo community. Zivai Another name that originates from the Shona group is Zivai, which means you must know. 77. Mulder. It means may I not lack a family or a home. A common nickname among the Yoruba people, Afolayan means one who walks with confidence or one who carries oneself like a wealthy person. Answer (1 of 6): No, some similarities but very different spelling. 79. 93. 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. Your use of the site indicates your agreement to be bound by our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. It is considered a male name. Its female variant is Owusua. 44. 35. Dogo (Nigerian origin) means "little," found among the Hausa in the northern part of Nigeria. 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. It means the one that I have is greater. Afumba (Lozi origin) meaning "when they plan". Copyright 2011 - 2023 MomJunction Private Limited. I find it quite silly in retrospect that almost all Kenyans have a Christian name which is quite English. Kidadl has a number of affiliate partners that we work with including Amazon. Mandela. Shaka Zulu was the leader of the Zulu Kingdom in the early 19th century. Owusu It is an Akan male surname which means strong-willed and determined. ywl -It means the river goddess has come home. Igwe is one of the most common surnames found in the Igbo community. 59. Sefako meaning "hail". Phiri (Malawi origin) meaning "mountain". Apply this search to the user-submitted names. Akpan Origin: Nigerian. Akinyi is another popular last name in Africa that means born in the morning.. 8. Mostly given to the men as a surname or a given name, it means my fathers land or my ancestral home. Abara (Igbo origin) meaning "spirit". Akinyemi (Yoruba origin) meaning "destined to be a warrior". Adeleke (Yoruba origin) meaning "the crown triumphed". These countries have their own beautiful languages, resulting in a range of different names that are unique to this region. 2022 Sandbox Networks Inc. All rights reserved. It also means once or one time in the Nguni languages such as Ndebele, Xhosa, and Zulu. 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. Dlamini (Etswana origin) meaning "royalty". Abi, Togo, I love my name to death. Taleb A devoted student or a seeker of knowledge, 92. In the 1700s some Portuguese sailors were s. 21. If you purchase using the buy now button we may earn a small commission. Adebisi (Nigerian origin) meaning "we/the King gave birth to more," from the Yoruba ethnic group. Zammit (Tunisian origin) means servant of. It means who knows tomorrow, an implication of the uncertainty and potential of the future, in Igbo language. More News. Deressa (Ethiopian origin) the meaning of this name isnt quite clear. There were an estimated 300,000 white South Africans of Portuguese descent in 2010. Nenge -This unusual surname means see in Tiv. SOUTH AFRICAN SURNAMES - A PLEASE NOTE: This is ONLY a listing of who is interested in which South African families. This name was adopted in the 17th century by Wesselius Praetorius as a Latin translation of his previous surname Schulte. This last name is commonly used by joint families in Africa. A name that reflects the gratitude of the family is Chamapiwa, meaning that which you have been given. Masondo (Zulu origin) meaning "wheels". A name that praises God is Chidubem, which means God is my guide in Igbo. Names such as Mwanajuma Friday, Esi Sunday, Khamisi Thursday, and Wekesa harvest time refer to the time or day when the child was born. 74. It is mostly given to boys due to its masculine connotation. The surname with Yoruba origin means god has rewarded me for my sufferings. It is usually considered a male name. 40. Another conventional name that praises physical strength is Orji. 29. 62. You contact them to see if you share . 20. Ait (Berber origin) means son, and is found among people from Morocco. This name is also predominantly given to boys. Among the Hausa tribes of Nigeria, Babangida means the master of the house. 44. 32. Africa is the land of abundant natural resources and cultural diversity. Surnames serve as a tool to identify our ancestry. Meaning: Mercy. Afia (Akan origin) meaning "born on a Friday," commonly found in Ghana and the Ivory Coast. Another expression of a characteristic trait, Asaju means leader of warriors, and is considered primarily male. 10. Sometimes used as a first name, this surname means the king/crown/royalty opens the belly/ womb. 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. I just feel happy to say that this programme of conscientization is excellent. 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. Sekou Nkrumah was named after Guinea's first President Sekou Toure, while Gamal Nkrumah got his name from Egyptian President Gamal . Madhurima takes a keen interest in parenting and lifestyle. Gowon (Tiv origin) meaning "the rainmaker". More so, African surnames are plainly out of this world. 67. If you want your babys name to be promising, then, this is the perfect name to choose. Motaung meaning "lions". The following 148 pages are in this category, out of 148 total. Information on our advertising guidelines can be found. Meaning: When they plan.. 81. Kaloki (Kenyan origin) the meaning isnt quite known. YM, Ethiopia. Odili meaning "peace". African Surnames: If theres ever a place or people you cant overlook, its the Africans. It originates in Igbo and means child of the supreme God. 26. 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. It is now common in South Africa. 92. Stemming from the Yoruba group, Adeleke means the king/crown/royalty triumphed. One of the most popular and optimistic Xhosa names is Gcobani, which means be joyful. Hassan Origin: An Arabic name found throughout Morocco. There are also hundreds of languages spoken on the continent, providing endless interesting meanings of each last name. Agwuegbo (Nigerian origin) means "the hardship is over," found among the Igbo people. 3. 76. 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. Prince David Osei is an admired African philanthropist, investor, entrepreneur and actor. This list contains Ethiopian last names, Sudanese last names and many more. Because I am a petite and sweet-looking woman, I find myself often underestimated and underminded. 15. Thank you! Mazigh (Arabic origin) means free man. 54. Rothschild. One of such names is a Yoruba surname Falade, which means god of divination has intermingled with royalty. It is a common unisex name. A popular surname among the Yoruba people from different countries of West Africa, Abimbola means born with wealth. Other variants include Ali and Alioun. It also means the next to be crowned among the Yoruba speaking groups. 38. 69. 14. 52. Behind the Name: Tswana Given Names. It means one who has many people to call for help, and is considered typically male. FamilyEducation does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Meaning: Handsome, manly, or strong.. Meaning: The Lord is gracious.. Osei Typically found in the Akan group of Ghana, it means royalty or noble person. Magombo Swahili, African, Swazi (Rare) Meaning unknown, possibly related from the fore name of the same name. Nnamani -Mostly given to the men as a surname or a given name, it means my fathers land or my ancestral home. As an Amazon Associate, Kidadl earns from qualifying purchases. Mahlangu meaning "one who carries the shield". 45. The first name is Bright. 84. 49. 68. It means "leaves" (verb) in Swahili. 34. Chifundo (Malawi origin) means mercy in the Chewa language. Onyilogwu -It means one who is invulnerable to dark magic. Having its roots in Yoruba, the name means my wealth is moving forward or my wealth is the future, and it is mostly given to boys. 86. We hope you liked our selection. It originates from the Swahili culture and means delight or happiness. I suppose it depends what you mean by most common . You will find the place of origin and the meaning of each name in this list too. Achebe (Igbo origin) meaning "the Goddess protects". It is important to know that there are over 10 official languages in South Africa. It is primarily masculine in essence. Alaneme (Igbo origin) meaning "the land is active". It is now common in South Africa. Theophilus Khumalo is a retired South African football player, best known for playing in South Africa's national team. Gbeho Origin: Ghanaian. 91. 37. Haliche (Berber origin) the meaning of this name isnt quite certain. 43. Another name that implores to the child is Banmeke, which means hold or sustain the rafter of the house with me. 88. Okusanya (Yoruba origin) meaning "God has rewarded me". 50. What I like about this name is it reflects which tribal group of South Africa I come from. 2. Similar to the name Adewole, which means the king/crown has entered the house, it has its origin from the Yoruba groups. We mention the African last names with their meanings and origins to help you learn about their rich history. 17. It is a popular female given and last name among the Yoruba people, and means a child to be cherished or pampered. Omenma meaning "one who does enough for others". Do you know what region or tribe that that would be from? This surname shows the devout nature of the people towards religion and belief in God. - wife of Charles Meredith Deane (1): 2. 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. Gowon Rooted in the Tiv language, Gowon means the rainmaker. Olantungi (Yoruba origin) meaning "wealth wakes again". As Africa is made up of 54 countries (making it the second-largest continent in the world), its naming systems are diverse. Meaning: Lion., 3. It is a nickname which also functions as the last name. 3. Hi, I am writing a novel and the main character (a girl) is from Sudan. Without any more delays, let's get to the good part and get to know more about some West African last names. Ech (North African origin) meaning edge or corner. 67. 13. I am certain that many other cultures equally create such names. It means valor is the worth of wealth or being brave, usually given to boys. Tshabalal (Zulu origin) meaning "shooting star". Paul Gisemba, Kenya, Given the importance of names in my social background (among the Dinka people), I am proud to be one of those named after the famous legendary ancestor of the Dinka people of Sudan, Deng, who was believed to be the direct decendant of Adam (Garang) and Eve (Abuk). 71. In Igbo language, it means my land is not lost. Find your South African last name, meaning, and origins. 78. Its other variants are Wonai and Vonai. Abioye (Nigerian origin) means "born into royalty," from the Yoruba ethnic group. South Africa is considered to be a melting pot filled with traditions and systems adopted from all parts of the African continent. Enjoyably, the pronunciation of these African surnames gives you a thrill that you can never get with any other set of Surnames. 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. Derefaka Gogo, Canada, In Most West African countries (Togo, Benin, Ghana, Cote dIvoire), the majority of Southern people name their children based on their day of birth. 83. Ganizani (Botswanan origin) means think in Chewa. See a medical professional for personalized consultation. The name can be translated as fullness of power. Wairimu Kuria, Kenyan in US, African names comes with great pride and power. It is suitable for both boys and girls. In abreviation ABUCHI for my Western folks, short and simple isnt it. 7. It is a Malian surname, which means blessing. Zodwa Dlamini is the Vice Chancellor for Research at the MUT (Mangosuthu University of Technology), a residential university located in Durban, South Africa. Buhle: the name is used mostly by the Xhosa clan to mean handsome. 95. It is also a display of honor for the eze or king in some parts of Igboland. Get in touch! 20. 23. Phukuntsi (Tswana origin) meaning "one who attracts flies". 36. It is a conventional surname across various African people and means one who is born on orie market day. South African variant of Both. Any child named after the above names is a blessed one whom the community expect to live up to the due reputation e.g has leadership qualities and being honest. 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. The accuracy of these name definitions cannot be guaranteed. 19. Twala meaning "to carry". 90. Mbatha meaning "protector". It is a globally used Igbo surname which means tiger. 75. 30. Sarpong It has its origin in the Ashanti or Asante group. Okoro - Origin: Nigerian (Urhobo). 5. 61. When you buy through the links on our site we may earn a commission. We can be baptised another Kenyan/African and more meaningful name than being another of the somewhat bland Peters and Janes of the world. 98. Hamadache (Algerian origin) the meaning is unknown. Discover the ethnic origin and meaning of last names. The term 'Goddesses' can be found among many common African names. Adby Origin: Nigerian (Yoruba). 67. Adomako Origin: Ghanaian. This is why many last names technically have different origins. Babangida -Among the Hausa tribes of Nigeria, Babangida means the master of the house. Benhaim (Judoe origin) means son of life. Another surname of Igbo origin, Agwuegbo means the hardship is over. The above list includes all the meaningful surnames with their unique meanings. Abebe (Amharic origin) meaning "flower". Mambwe (Zambian origin) meaning "the Lord is gracious". Odili is a surname that is common among many people in the Zulu community. Van Graan. 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. Such a family name is always very outstanding and popular in such a community. Itumeleng (Botswanan origin) means joy. Having its origin in the Shona group of Zimbabwe, the name means a call to observe or to see that which has happened. Madia South African. 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. Third item on the film. Olowe -It shows the unity of the families in the Yoruba groups. Abimbola (Nigerian origin) meaning "born into wealth," the name is specific to the Yoruba people of western Nigeria. creative tips and more. Akpabio (Nigerian origin) means "leader" or "noble," and is found among the Ibibio people. Over nine year more. 9. Eze (Igbo origin) meaning "king". 25. It means wealth has come home, and is predominantly considered a male name. What we suggest is selected independently by the Kidadl team. Afumba Origin: Zambian (Lozi). This also doesnt include some of the well-known tribes like Igbo and Yoruba. 74. FamilyEducation does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Kalu (Ibo origin) meaning "God of thunder", Kalus is one of the most prominent surnames found in the African continent. 27. It is usually given to boys. Forebears knows about 821,426 unique surnames in South Africa and there are 66 people per name. 46. Makeba meaning "precious jewel". Their ancestors arrived in South Africa through three different routes: 1. Nnadi is an extremely common surname used in much African community. It has its roots in the Shona group of Zimbabwe, and means fulfilment of a pledge or a promise. 3. 36. It can be translated into the land is active. Meghnagi (Libyan origin) could refer to zion. Stefanie is a freelance parenting writer and blogger, and has published works on other publications such as Motherly. Chalo (Zambian origin) means battle. Toure (Ghanaian origin) means "elephant," from the Soninke word. Its other variants are Wonai and Vonai. Nomzamo Mbatha is a South African businesswoman, actress, and human rights activist. Afumba (Zambian origin) meaning "when they plan". And a Nigerian friend has told me that many Ibo names are equivalent compounds of the divines name and some desirable relationship. Amani (Ethiopian origin) means faith. 40. 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. It is suitable for boys. 33. 61. Gcobani One of the most popular and optimistic Xhosa names is Gcobani, which means be joyful. Helping or aiding others is a common theme found among Afrikaans names. Here are some common South African last names: Dlamini: A popular surname in Southern Africa. First Trimester To-Do List: Take Care of Yourself. 89. De Beer Afrikaans. The culture and diversity of the African continent are seen through its wide range of last names. Family Education is part of the Sandbox Learning family of educational reference sites for parents, teachers, and students. Abioye Origin: Nigerian. There are 54 countries, between 900 and 1,500 languages, and several thousand ethnic groups in Africa, according to Britannica. Ilunga, for example, is of Bantu origin.It roughly translates to "a person who is ready to forgive any abuse for the first time, to . Umburter is one of the most prominent African last names from the Tiv language. Talia (Arabic origin) means lamb or dew of God. Please note: prices are correct and items are available at the time the article was published. It is suitable for both boys and girls. We recognise that not all activities and ideas are appropriate and suitable for all children and families or in all circumstances. 19. Umburter (Tiv origin) meaning "remember the father". And Its curious there arent many hausa names (if any at all). Originating from the Ibibio group, Akpabio means leader, noble or prime. Other variants are Efua, Afua, and its male version is Kofi. Owusu meaning "strong-minded and determined". 33. Most Popular African Last Names Or Surnames. This name from the Igbo tribes means my God is alive or my father lives. Check your inbox for your latest news from us. (Both proud and amused!).