77. 88. Dlamini (Etswana origin) meaning "royalty". Africa is the land of abundant natural resources and cultural diversity. It is common both as a surname and a nickname. This is one of the beauties associated with African surnames. 96. This also doesnt include some of the well-known tribes like Igbo and Yoruba. Ladipo -Used both as a last nameand a given name, Ladipo or Oladipo means wealth and prosperity. 13. 8. Popularized by former US president Barack Obama, the name has its origin in the Luo dialect, and means to lean or bend. Akpabio -Originating from the Ibibio group, Akpabio means leader, noble or prime. You can find some beautiful and popular African last names from countries in eastern Africa. 65. This name suits both boys and girls. Elya (Ethiopian origin) meaning my God is Yahweh. 77. This surname has its ancestral roots in Swahili, and means born on Friday. Gcobani One of the most popular and optimistic Xhosa names is Gcobani, which means be joyful. Her love for content creation made her pivot her career from science to writing. Thanks! 93. Over nine year more. 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 . Phiri (Malawi origin) meaning "mountain". Over nine years, she has helped various brands with compelling, well-researched, and unique content. One of the many surnames that appreciate the divine is a Yoruba name Folorunsho, which means under Gods protection. Hi, I am writing a novel and the main character (a girl) is from Sudan. Adby Origin: Nigerian (Yoruba). Dlamini is also the surname of the reigning royal family of eSwatini. Kidadl cannot accept liability for the execution of these ideas, and parental supervision is advised at all times, as safety is paramount. This last name originates from the Igbo group. An appreciative masculine name that embraces a new arrival with positivity, it means the king/crown/royalty filled the house. Meaning: Child that keeps coming or reincarnation., 5. Owusu meaning "strong-minded and determined". 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. You have subscribed to: Remember that you can always manage your preferences or unsubscribe through the link at the foot of each newsletter. 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. Madia South African. 58. Meziane is a variation. 44. 42. Traditional African given names often reflect the circumstances at the time of birth. 47. Having its roots in Ibibio, the surname or nickname Etienam means a doer of good or benevolent. 67. 100. SaveIllustration: Momjunction Design Team. Shaka Zulu was the leader of the Zulu Kingdom in the early 19th century. The research found that in Africa, most surnames are connected to geographic origin, occupation, lineage or personal characteristics.One surname-type unique to the continent is the praise-name, which expresses character traits or other admirable attributes. Kahinu (Swahili origin) means clergyman. http://www.expressos. 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. Usually earned, Agrinya means warrior in the Yala language. This surname is possibly derived from the Sonink word tr, which means elephant. Answer (1 of 4): Most of these surnames are not Hispanic at all, but Lusophone (Portuguese). If you liked our suggestions for African Last Names then why not take a look at Scottish last names, or for more last names take a look at these Croatian surnames. 25. Mandela. Abi, Togo, I love my name to death. The infographic below includes some popular ones from the African continent and of African descent. Keita (Malian origin) means "blessing," found among the people of Mali. 7. Fundamental All languages Afrikaans Terms by semantic function Names Surnames. It is a nickname which also functions as the last name. 34. 70. 60. It is important to know that there are over 10 official languages in South Africa. 44. Buhari is one of South Africa's orthodox surnames. Lupondo South African. 77. Many common South African last names make references to natural occurrences. 18. One of such names is a Yoruba surname Falade, which means god of divination has intermingled with royalty. It means child with fat cheeks. There were an estimated 300,000 white South Africans of Portuguese descent in 2010. 53. SOUTH AFRICAN SURNAMES - P PLEASE NOTE: This is ONLY a listing of who is interested in which South African families. 76. It means born into wealth or born into high status. Abioye (Nigerian origin) means "born into royalty," from the Yoruba ethnic group. It is generally considered a boy name. https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Category:Afrikaans-language_surnames&oldid=1108286178, Template Category TOC via CatAutoTOC on category with 101200 pages, CatAutoTOC generates standard Category TOC, Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License 3.0, This page was last edited on 3 September 2022, at 15:23. 32. I suppose it depends what you mean by most common . 67. An optimistic surname and first name that hopes for prosperity, Adebisi means the king/crown/royalty produced more. Many African last names reference wealth and the aristocracy. Actually just after I was born, peace was restored in my family. Katlego (Tswana origin) means success. 99. There we go! It is suitable for boys. Chikondi (Malawi origin) means love. Toure (Ghanaian origin) means "elephant," from the Soninke word. Malan. Another nickname that also functions as a surname is Egebe, which means kite. Dogo (Hausa origin) meaning "little". Gavin Wood and Felix February shares more about the idea behind the Slave Calendar that explores the history of surnames of Capetonians. It is also a display of honor for the eze or king in some parts of Igboland. This name suits both boys and girls. Chidubem (Igbo origin) meaning "guided by God". 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. 62. Nwachukwu (Igbo origin) meaning "child of God". Meaning: Destined for greatness. On track for Cape Town E-Prix: R350 tickets still available, but not for long! 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. Alioune (Senegalis origin) meaning "sublime" or "lofty". Jlassi (Tunisian origin) means loyalty or sincerity. Discover the ethnic origin and meaning of last names. It is usually accepted as a male name. It is a conventional female name among the Yoruba groups and means wealth is sweet. 18. 8. You will find the place of origin and the meaning of each name in this list too. 66. Its other variants are Orjea, Orjee, Orjey, Orjie, and Orjy. Falade Several African names and surnames, when translated, often make full sentences. This is why many last names technically have different origins. If you are looking for more unique names, you can look at our articles on South African Names and African Last Names. Adebisi Origin: Nigerian (Yoruba). These kinds of surnames evolve into family names such that in a particular community, more than one extended family can have this surname as their last name. Musa Origin: Nigerian. Orji Another conventional name that praises physical strength is Orji. It means the strong one has returned. 97. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); Totally Wonderful African Surnames and their Astonishing Meanings. There are 54 countries, between 900 and 1,500 languages, and several thousand ethnic groups in Africa, according to Britannica. 43. Nnadi -This name from the Igbo tribes means my God is alive or my father lives. The name can be translated as fullness of power. 17. You contact them to see if you share . 33. Akinyemi is a surname found mostly in descendants of the Yoruba people. 69. Babangida -Among the Hausa tribes of Nigeria, Babangida means the master of the house. 3. Sarpong (Ghanaian origin) means "great warrior" or "supreme," found among the Ashanti group. Chaka: This name is mostly known across many nations as it came to prominence as a result of the fame of Yvonne Chaka Chaka, a singer and entertainer. 9. This page was last edited on 20 June 2022, at 04:46. Olowe -It shows the unity of the families in the Yoruba groups. Meaning: Handsome, manly, or strong.. African Surnames: If theres ever a place or people you cant overlook, its the Africans. Esther Mahlangu is an artist best known for contemporary paintings based on her cultural heritage. It means destined to be a warrior in Yoruba language. 82. It means he came in a joyful time or the king/crown/royalty meets joy in Yoruba. It means supreme or a great warrior and is usually given to boys. Last names come from indigenous, colonialist, and diasporic roots. It must be noted though that English white South Africans, Coloureds and very few blacks have "Afrikaans" surnames. 41. The following two tabs change content below. Nnamani -Mostly given to the men as a surname or a given name, it means my fathers land or my ancestral home. 2022 Sandbox Networks Inc. All rights reserved. Egebe Another nickname that also functions as a surname is Egebe, which means kite. 101. 5. 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. 40. 41. One of the most popular African names, Mensah comes from the Akan group, and means third child born to a couple. 54. Meaning: Derives from the name Tekle Haymanot, an Ethiopian monk and saint. A well-liked Yoruba male name, Abioye means born into royalty or the son of royalty. A little under 10% of South Africa's population are Cape Coloureds. Subscribe for virtual tools, STEM-inspired play, creative tips and more. It is usually given to boys. 69. In the Igbo language, Aguta means to have plenty or to have plenty/many. We hope you love our recommendations for products and services! Umburter Derived from the Tiv language, it means remember the father. 6. Medupe (Tswana origin) meaning "gentle rain". Chidiozie is a long-established surname in many African communities. Kaloki (Kenyan origin) the meaning isnt quite known. Get high-quality PDF version by clicking below. Masoja Msiza is a South African artist known for appearing in the hit telenovela 'Uzalo'. Boujettif Origin: Northern African (Archaic). In this context, the father can also mean God. So a name is really very important. African last names are a reflection of their customs and peculiar naming traditions. It is a conventional surname across various African people and means one who is born on orie market day. 34. 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. 5. Other variants include Ali and Alioun. When we come to my dads name Negussie it means my king and my grandpas name Aberra means its shining so when you read my entire name it has a meaning of Daniel my king shines. Yeah, I hope I will shine forever and be a man for a change. 39. I think my name shows more the hope and wish of my parents than mine (given that I am on the atheistic side of things). Vocabulary words are also often used as given names. 2022 Sandbox Networks Inc. All rights reserved. 81. Ndaba meaning "news". It means one who acts at the time of scarcity. Botha Southern African, Afrikaans. Albert Luthuli was an African Nobel Peace Prize winner, teacher, and anti-apartheid activist. 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. De Bruyn Afrikaans. Barnard. 27. Kidadl provides inspiration to entertain and educate your children. 38. This list contains Ethiopian last names, Sudanese last names and many more. If you purchase using the buy now button we may earn a small commission. It means wealth has come home, and is predominantly considered a male name. Among the Xhosa and Ndebele groups of people, Buhle is a popular name which means handsome or beautiful. West Nkosi was a South African songwriter and music producer. Sekou Nkrumah was named after Guinea's first President Sekou Toure, while Gamal Nkrumah got his name from Egyptian President Gamal . The names are organised into subsections based on the location of their origin, in order to make this list as clear as possible for your enjoyment. Family Education is part of the Sandbox Learning family of educational reference sites for parents, teachers, and students. It is usually given to boys. Dualeh (Somali origin) the meaning of this name is unknown. It means supreme or a great warrior and is usually given to boys. It is considered to be primarily male. First Trimester To-Do List: Take Care of Yourself. 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. Your privacy is important to us. Ameziane (Tamazight origin) means little or young, this last name is from a language that is mainly spoken in Algeria. Among the Igbo groups, Igwe means heaven, which is considered the highest realm of existence. 19. 99. This name is often given to boys. Jelani -One of the given and last names for boys among the Swahili tribes, Jelani means mighty or full of strength. What we suggest is selected independently by the Kidadl team. Bilaal (Somali origin) means moistening. Sekou Nkrumah was named after Guineas first President Sekou Toure, while Gamal Nkrumah got his name from Egyptian President Gamal Abdel Nasser. 64. Meaning: The Chosen One., 58. 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. Most Popular African Last Names on FamilyEducation: Ba, Ballo, Dial, First Trimester To-Do List: Take Care of Yourself. This list may not reflect recent changes. This list also contains some of the most common Yoruba surnames, like Adebayo and some interesting Igbo last names. 1. 51. It is generally regarded as suitable for boys. Generally given to boys, it means the king/crown/royalty befits me or worthy of the crown. 75. The people of South Africa take inspiration from several sources when it comes to surnames. 83. 86. 14. It is important to know that there are over 10 official languages in South Africa. 39. Ghana's founding father Kwame Nkrumah chose to name his two sons after fellow African leaders. 94. 59. Behind the Name: Ndebele Given Names. 46. Acheampong (Ashanti origin) this last names means "destined for greatness," found among the Ashanti people of Ghana. Your use of the site indicates your agreement to be bound by our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Fundamental All languages Afrikaans Terms by semantic function Names Surnames. Kimathi Origin: Kenyan. Okoro (Igbo origin) meaning "greatness". 84. 15. 56. This diversity is evident in all facets of their existence and it is very prominent. Its female variant is Owusua. But 32 years later the late Laurent Kabila kicked Mobutu out, and re-baptised the country the Democratic Republic of Congo. There are ten countries found in this part of the continent, not counting the island of Madagascar. Khumalo (Ndebele origin) meaning "descendant of the fish tribe". Abimbola Origin: West African (Yoruba). Kasongo Origin: Congolese. Pages in category "Afrikaans-language surnames" The following 148 pages are in this category, out of 148 total. 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. 36. Meaning: Bushbuck.. hausas are the most populous group in nigeria. It originates in Igbo and means child of the supreme God. In May 2003 I took a genetics test and found out that Im a direct descendent of the Mandinkas maternally. Tambo meaning "rope". We try our very best, but cannot guarantee perfection. Common South African surnames. 29. Faraji is a common Swahili last name that is loved by all due to its sweetness and candor. Name and surname: NE NTULI STUDENT NUMBER: 60283858 UNIQUE NUMBER: 888570 MODULE: PVL 2601 ASSINGMENT 1 SEMESTER 2 2020 Question 1 a. By joining Kidadl you agree to Kidadls Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receiving marketing communications from Kidadl. A popular surname among the Yoruba people from different countries of West Africa, Abimbola means born with wealth. Rajnandini is an art lover and enthusiastically likes to spread her knowledge. Mazigh (Arabic origin) means free man. Read for more information. Mokrani (Berber origin) refers to a town in Algeria. Madhurima has completed her Masters in Biochemistry from North Eastern Hill University (NEHU), Shillong. Interesting article, where did you source the data this research is based on. We have listed 100 surnames of African origin in this article. Copyright 2011 - 2023 MomJunction Private Limited. 83. It is suitable for both boys and girls. She is fond of classic British literature. 9. 64. 96. Having its origin in Yoruba, Awolowo means the oracle has dignity. De Beer Afrikaans. The Muslim name Abd-Allah is equivalent to the Gebre Egziabher I mentioned above. Last name Onwuachimba means Death could never wipe out a community. This surname shows the devout nature of the people towards religion and belief in God. Temitope It means mine is worthy of thanks or gratitude, and is suitable for both boys and girls. 97. In Igbo language, it means my land is not lost. 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. Onai Having its origin in the Shona group of Zimbabwe, the name means a call to observe or to see that which has happened. It implies that a baby will be the first of many children for couples who have had difficulty in conceiving. Olanrewaju (Yoruba origin) meaning "my prosperity is moving forward". Among the citizens of Senegal, Ndiaye is a ferocious surname as well as a given name. Juma (Swahili origin) means Friday born. 51. Another surname of Yoruba origin, Adebowale means return of the crown. Nomzamo Mbatha is a South African businesswoman, actress, and human rights activist. It has its origin in the Shona groups of Zimbabwe. 37. Bongani (South African origin) means thankful or grateful in Zulu. Ndiaye Among the citizens of Senegal, Ndiaye is a ferocious surname as well as a given name. 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. Achebe is an invocation of a deity, which means the Goddess protects. Kasongo (Congolese origin) meaning "bushbuck". Ngige meaning "locust". 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. The above list includes all the meaningful surnames with their unique meanings. Because I am a petite and sweet-looking woman, I find myself often underestimated and underminded. The following 67 pages are in this category, out of 67 total. 5. 45. 29. Originally a unisex nickname, Oriko is often used as a fond last name. Meaning: Unknown. This name is primarily masculine. The following 148 pages are in this category, out of 148 total. It is suitable for both boys and girls. 12. 11. Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma is an anti-apartheid activist and politician, who worked under Nelson Mandela as the South African Minister of Health. 72. As Sudan is filled with many different tribes and ethnicities. 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. The Igbo people do not use family names. Its other variants are Wonai and Vonai. 79. Gbeho Origin: Ghanaian. Bouhouche (Kabyle origin) means father. It also means the next to be crowned among the Yoruba speaking groups. 56. Mahlangu meaning "one who carries the shield". Kagiso (Tswana origin) means peace. This name was adopted in the 17th century by Wesselius Praetorius as a Latin translation of his previous surname Schulte. Ait (Berber origin) means son, and is found among people from Morocco. Dawit (Amharic origin) means beloved. For example: Sefu sword and Tau lion (masculine) and Marjani coral and Ife love (feminine). Omenuko The surname acknowledges the helpfulness or resourcefulness of a person. 150 Unique and Most Common African Last Names (Surnames), African Culture 16 most interesting traditions, 10 trending Kaftan outfit ideas for grooms-to-be, Richest Person In Kenya And Top 10 Wealthy Kenyans, Turkey is to completely erase all Somalias debts to the IMF, 5 highest paid African football players in 2020, 10 of Africas most amazing Tourist places you must visit, The 10 Best Africans In The English Premier League, 16 Reasons Why You Should Visit South Africa For The Holidays. 89. This article contains incorrect information, This article doesnt have the information Im looking for, 100 African Last Names With Meanings And History, 60+ Funny Orc Names That Are Perfect For Your Next Campaign, All Of The Pillar Men Names From JoJo's Bizarre Adventure, 100+ Ice Hockey, Roller Hockey, And Hockey Team Names From Past And Present, 80+ Beaver Names From Fiction, Plus Cute And Funny Ideas For Names. It is an Igbo surname and nickname, which conveys pride. Accordingly, all letters that make up these last names must be duly considered and put into perspective while trying to pronounce them. 24. Many African last names reference wealth and the aristocracy. This Yoruba name means the lucid one or one who is clear. Originating from the Ibibio group, Akpabio means leader, noble or prime. Afumba (Lozi origin) meaning "when they plan". In the 1700s some Portuguese sailors were s. It depends on what region of Sudan the girl is from. Behind the Name: Tswana Given Names. It has its roots in the Shona group of Zimbabwe, and means fulfilment of a pledge or a promise. 50. ywl -It means the river goddess has come home. My first name is from the bible as Christanity was an old religinon in Ethiopia/Africa. This name is primarily given to male members. Gebreyes (Ethiopian origin) means servant of. When you buy through the links on our site we may earn a commission. 98. This practice is usually done as a memorial to the heroics of the one who first bore that name. Die Afrikaner-familienaamboek : sketse en besonderhede omtrent die voorgeslagte van bekende Afrikanerfamilies An alphabetical list of South African surnames and early genealogy connected therewith. 35. Apply this search to the user-submitted names. Noxolo Judith Ncapayi, South Africa. Abebe Origin: Ethiopian. It also means once or one time in the Nguni languages such as Ndebele, Xhosa, and Zulu. We also link to other websites, but are not responsible for their content. Meaning: The son of royalty. It is suitable for boys and girls. The Akan name is widely used among the girls. Dikeledi (Botswanan origin) means tears. Abioye Origin: Nigerian. 13. Dogo (Nigerian origin) means "little," found among the Hausa in the northern part of Nigeria. Grigahcine (Kabyle origin) this last name is most widely found in Algeria. 4. Nnadi is an extremely common surname used in much African community. Nnadi (Igbo origin) meaning "my father lives". 14. Negga (Ethiopian origin) means "the night has passed". Check your inbox for your latest news from us. creative tips and more. Abdallah Origin: An Arabic name found through Sudan. When you buy through the links on our site we may earn a commission. Benhaim (Judoe origin) means son of life. Richard Maponya was a South African conglomerate who built a business empire. The surname acknowledges the helpfulness or resourcefulness of a person. Its other variants are Orjea, Orjee, Orjey, Orjie, and Orjy. Without any more delays, let's get to the good part and get to know more about some West African last names. Kanumba Origin: Tanzanian. 85. They are passionate about turning your everyday moments into memories and bringing you inspiring ideas to have fun with your family. Do you know what or where the last name Uwagbal or Ofenjiaguan came from or what it means. 81. Pretorius Southern African, Afrikaans. 68. 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 . I maintain the list. Among the Hausa tribes of Nigeria, Babangida means the master of the house. Chidubem Origin: Nigerian (Igbo). The name can be translated as fullness of power. As Africa is made up of 54 countries (making it the second-largest continent in the world), its naming systems are diverse. Theophilus Khumalo is a retired South African football player, best known for playing in South Africa's national team. It is considered to be fundamentally masculine. Ghanas founding father Kwame Nkrumah chose to name his two sons after fellow African leaders. Abuchi, USA, I have a western surname, presumably that of the slavemaster of my forebears. Maduabuchi means Humans are not God. 20. Several African names and surnames, when translated, often make full sentences. Uduike (Igbo origin) meaning "full of power". 41. Cisse (Madinka origin) meaning "professor". This category has the following 9 subcategories, out of 9 total. Akinyemi (Yoruba origin) meaning "destined to be a warrior". Feel free to also check out the history of these surnames as well to help you learn a little bit more about your background. 68. In the Tamazight language, Amaziane means young or little. Chisomo (Malawi origin) means grace. Ray Phiri was a Malawian immigrant who went on to become one of South Africa's most renowned Jazz musicians. Meaning: He came in a joyful time or the king/crown/royalty meets joy., 11. 51. Hassan Origin: An Arabic name found throughout Morocco. 69. Desmond Tutu is a renowned clerk and theologian, known for his work in the human rights sector. Franklin Ayodele is a famous Nigerian footballer who has this common surname. In the United States anyone who manifests African ancestry is coded as "black". This name from the Igbo tribes means my God is alive or my father lives. Taleb A devoted student or a seeker of knowledge, 92. It has its origin in the Ashanti or Asante group. Okafor (Igbo origin) meaning "born on Afor". Helping or aiding others is a common theme found among Afrikaans names. It can be used for both boys and girls. It is a Dutch/Flemish variant on the word Lowe, meaning Lion. 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). Archi Gumede was a prominent African politician, lawyer and human rights activist. It is considered to be fundamentally masculine. Apply this search to the user-submitted names. And a Nigerian friend has told me that many Ibo names are equivalent compounds of the divines name and some desirable relationship.