70. creative tips and more. Answer (1 of 6): No, some similarities but very different spelling. We try our very best, but cannot guarantee perfection. Meaning: The night has passed.. From Latin praetor meaning "leader". It means one who has many people to call for help, and is considered typically male. 50. It is suitable for both boys and girls. Originating from the Ibibio group, Akpabio means leader, noble or prime. Ghana's founding father Kwame Nkrumah chose to name his two sons after fellow African leaders. 82. Abara: Originating from the Igbo group of West Africa, Abara means 'spirit'. 33. The infographic below includes some popular ones from the African continent and of African descent. Ech (North African origin) meaning edge or corner. Abebe (Amharic origin) meaning "flower". Wairimu Kuria, Kenyan in US, African names comes with great pride and power. Mensah One of the most popular African names, Mensah comes from the Akan group, and means third child born to a couple. In the 1700s some Portuguese sailors were s. - wife of Charles Meredith Deane (1): 2. Most Popular African Last Names on FamilyEducation: Ba, Ballo, Dial, First Trimester To-Do List: Take Care of Yourself. Mlambo (Xhosa origin) meaning "river". 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. 65. 52. Because I am a petite and sweet-looking woman, I find myself often underestimated and underminded. Popoola (Nigerian origin) means "intelligent people," found in the Yoruba ethnic group. 35. Originating from the Igbo group of West Africa, Abara means spirit. 74. Generally used as a masculine name, it means we have increased or multiplied or we are many among the Shona group of Zimbabwe. 58. Derived from the Tiv language, it means remember the father. Your privacy is important to us. Mokrani (Berber origin) refers to a town in Algeria. 19. Kidadl has a number of affiliate partners that we work with including Amazon. If you purchase using the buy now button we may earn a small commission. Igwe Among the Igbo groups, Igwe means heaven, which is considered the highest realm of existence. Many African last names reference wealth and the aristocracy. Abioye Origin: Nigerian. Over nine years, she has helped various brands with compelling, well-researched, and unique content. Several African names and surnames, when translated, often make full sentences. 1. Luckhoff South African. Elya (Ethiopian origin) meaning my God is Yahweh. First Trimester To-Do List: Take Care of Yourself. Adomako Origin: Ghanaian. Richard Maponya was a South African conglomerate who built a business empire. Osei meaning "royalty". Meaning: Earnest provider.. Siddig (Arabic origin) meaning friend. We hope you love our recommendations for products and services! Mbatha meaning "protector". Babangida -Among the Hausa tribes of Nigeria, Babangida means the master of the house. In abreviation ABUCHI for my Western folks, short and simple isnt it. Chizimu Origin: Malawian (Lambya). It is a name that compliments a person, and it means one who does well. 80. Masondo (Zulu origin) meaning "wheels". 31. Meaning: Born during the festival or war. It also means once or one time in the Nguni languages such as Ndebele, Xhosa, and Zulu. 69. We recognise that not all activities and ideas are appropriate and suitable for all children and families or in all circumstances. 71. 88. This practice is usually done as a memorial to the heroics of the one who first bore that name. Chidubem (Igbo origin) meaning "guided by God". Subscribe for virtual tools, STEM-inspired play, 25. Many African last names reference wealth and the aristocracy. Owusu It is an Akan male surname which means strong-willed and determined. His reason was to rid the country of all of Mobutus influence and he felt a change of name was the way to do it. One of the most popular African names, Mensah comes from the Akan group, and means third child born to a couple. You contact them to see if you share . Otueome The rare surname means he says and does as he said he would do, and is considered to be a masculine name. Ndaba meaning "news". Buhle (Xhosa origin) meaning "handsome". 81. Her love for content creation made her pivot her career from science to writing. 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. Information on our advertising guidelines can be found. All rights reserved. Abioye (Yoruba origin) meaning "son of royalty". As Africa is made up of 54 countries (making it the second-largest continent in the world), its naming systems are diverse. Folorunsho One of the many surnames that appreciate the divine is a Yoruba name Folorunsho, which means under Gods protection. This complex background makes summing up African naming traditions in a few paragraphs very difficult. 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. 90. 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. Meaning: The Lord is gracious.. It is usually considered to be suitable for boys. 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 means supreme or a great warrior and is usually given to boys. Nomzamo Mbatha is a South African businesswoman, actress, and human rights activist. Having its origin in the Shona group of Zimbabwe, the name means a call to observe or to see that which has happened. African last names are a reflection of their customs and peculiar naming traditions. 42. 94. The Igbo people do not use family names. South african last names starting with R Among the Shona people of Zimbabwe, Anotidaishe means the Lord loves us. It also means the next to be crowned among the Yoruba speaking groups. 48. 15. Thebe Medupe is an African Astrophysicist recognized for his work on a project called 'Cosmic Africa'. If anything the french names have remained the same and are quite common in South Africa. Sarpong (Ghanaian origin) means "great warrior" or "supreme," found among the Ashanti group. Another expression of a characteristic trait, Asaju means leader of warriors, and is considered primarily male. Do you know what or where the last name Uwagbal or Ofenjiaguan came from or what it means. It is common both as a surname and a nickname. You cant find them anywhere else. 85. 87. Kikelomo (Yoruba origin) meaning "to be cherished". Without any more delays, let's get to the good part and get to know more about some West African last names. Akpabio (Nigerian origin) means "leader" or "noble," and is found among the Ibibio people. The genesis of this Ethiopian name is Amharic, and it means flower or blossom. Sometimes used as a first name, this surname means the king/crown/royalty opens the belly/ womb. 14. There are 54 countries, between 900 and 1,500 languages, and several thousand ethnic groups in Africa, according to Britannica. Whilst this is a list of last names, many of the last names on this list have also been used as first names too. 43. South African variant of Both. Hamadache (Algerian origin) the meaning is unknown. Nenge -This unusual surname means see in Tiv. 6. Quansah is one of the many surnames that makes reference to religion and a higher power. Enjoyably, the pronunciation of these African surnames gives you a thrill that you can never get with any other set of Surnames. Mulder. Meaning: Unknown. 69. Mary Twala was an artist who started her career by starring in 'Generations', a South African TV series. Another surname of Yoruba origin, Adebowale means return of the crown. Its variant is Chike, which means Gods power. Find your South African last name, meaning, and origins. It is both a surname and a given name, which means I should give praise. Meaning: Unknown. This is why many last names technically have different origins. The northern part of Africa, according to the UN, is made up of seven countries. West Africa is home to some of the most popular African last names. You will find the place of origin and the meaning of each name in this list too. Submitted names are contributed by users of this website. Browse our list of the most common South American names and surnames from A-Z. Olatunji Usually used as a given name and the last name, Olatunji means wealth awakes again. Abioye (Nigerian origin) means "born into royalty," from the Yoruba ethnic group. Bayu (Ethiopian origin) meaning wind. You need to be quite careful and focused to be able to produce these African last names as they should be. Okoro (Igbo origin) meaning "greatness". Archi Gumede was a prominent African politician, lawyer and human rights activist. It is usually given to boys. It is now common in South Africa. Kikelomo is one of the most conventional names that can be found among African languages. Furaha It originates from the Swahili culture and means delight or happiness. Mensah is a common last name used by families residing in various parts of Africa, such as South Africa. Negga/Nega Origin: Ethiopian. Most Popular African Last Names Or Surnames, Infographic: Top African Surnames Rich In History And Culture. 29. Generally given to boys, it has its origin in the Amharic language, and means trinity. Other variants include Ali and Alioun. It means may I not lack a family or a home. It is typically a male name. Their names are based on male lineage. 45. 33. If you want your babys name to be promising, then, this is the perfect name to choose. It means the one that I have is greater. Another surname of Igbo origin, Agwuegbo means the hardship is over. 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. 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. 26. 53. In the United States anyone who manifests African ancestry is coded as "black". 100 Unique and Most Common African Last Names (Surnames), While doing our research for African Names we found these interesting aricle parts and we feel like sharing them with you, My name (Noxolo) means peace in Xhosa. When my mother was pregnant, she was always fighting with my father and his family; she was in this constant state of depression. Accordingly, all letters that make up these last names must be duly considered and put into perspective while trying to pronounce them. Temitope It means mine is worthy of thanks or gratitude, and is suitable for both boys and girls. 41. Onai (Shona origin) meaning "call to observe". This name is primarily given to male members. Among the citizens of Senegal, Ndiaye is a ferocious surname as well as a given name. It means one who acts at the time of scarcity. 20. Here is a list of popular South African last names. 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. It is a common given name to male children, which means firstborn son in Egyptian. Tawedzwegwa Purpose Katakwa, Zimbabwe. Meaning: Unknown. Achebe (Nigerian origin) meaning "the goddess protects," from the Igbo people of Nigeria. SOUTH AFRICAN SURNAMES - A PLEASE NOTE: This is ONLY a listing of who is interested in which South African families. Apply this search to the user-submitted names. Kidadl has lots of great names articles to inspire you. Ray Phiri was a Malawian immigrant who went on to become one of South Africa's most renowned Jazz musicians. Selassie -Generally given to boys, it has its origin in the Amharic language, and means trinity. It must be noted though that English white South Africans, Coloureds and very few blacks have "Afrikaans" surnames. 8. Meghnagi (Libyan origin) could refer to zion. 71. 76. Here you will find some great Nigerian last names, like Abimbola which means "born into wealth" and Obi, which means "heart". Stefanie is a freelance parenting writer and blogger, and has published works on other publications such as Motherly. 22. It is considered a male name. Its other variants are Orjea, Orjee, Orjey, Orjie, and Orjy. Mines Margaret, or Latin for some Catholics. Nelson Mandela was the first president of South Africa in the post-Apartheid era. The following two tabs change content below. 68. Bankole (Yoruba origin) meaning "build my house for me". South Africa is full of so many diverse people. Abioye (Nigerian origin) means "born into royalty," from the Yoruba ethnic group. 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. 99. Phukuntsi (Tswana origin) meaning "one who attracts flies". The name is an invocation to Ijebu, the god of wealth. 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. 47. It also functions both as the last name and a surname. Buhari meaning "is a man". Tawfiq Means an opportunity or chance to gain knowledge or succeed in life. Dogo It is one of the most widely used Hausa nicknames which means little. Well send you tons of inspiration to help you find a hidden gem in your local area or plan a big day out. Other variants are Efua, Afua, and its male version is Kofi. Katlego (Tswana origin) means success. Molungu is a popular surname that many African people in the Bantu community hold. This name is primarily given to male members. 88. Behind the Name: Tswana Given Names. It means the strong one has returned. Orji Another conventional name that praises physical strength is Orji. 10. 98. Her love for content creation made her pivot her career from science to writing. Abuchi, USA, I have a western surname, presumably that of the slavemaster of my forebears. 34. 33. 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. The Xhosa people use their family name or clan name. Jomana (Arabic origin) means a pearl. Oyinlola It is a conventional female name among the Yoruba groups and means wealth is sweet. Owusu meaning "strong-minded and determined". Name and surname: NE NTULI STUDENT NUMBER: 60283858 UNIQUE NUMBER: 888570 MODULE: PVL 2601 ASSINGMENT 1 SEMESTER 2 2020 Question 1 a. Used both as a last name and a given name, Ladipo or Oladipo means wealth and prosperity. Each name is unique and holds an ancestral meaning, symbolizing the origin and history. 71. Another unisex name, Okoro means child of the freeborn man, or man in Urhobo. Gowon Rooted in the Tiv language, Gowon means the rainmaker. Such a family name is always very outstanding and popular in such a community. March 03 , 2023. 64. Umburter (Tiv origin) meaning "remember the father". Olowe -It shows the unity of the families in the Yoruba groups. It is usually given to boys. 25. Mmeriemikwu (Igbo origin) meaning "to be better.". This is one of the beauties associated with African surnames. Chaka (Bemba origin) meaning "year". 37. Another nickname that also functions as a surname is Egebe, which means kite. Akosua Adoma Owusu is an African-American producer and filmmaker focused on creating content that depicts the collision of different identities. It can be used for both boys and girls. Nkosi (Nguni origin) meaning "king". It means peace, suitable for a boy or a girl. 99. Tshabalal (Zulu origin) meaning "shooting star". Each surname has its own peculiar significance and purpose. 14. 94. Meaning: Lion., 3. Meaning: Title given to firstborn male children of the Ibibio/Efik people. The surname Keita gained prominence after the rule of the Keita dynasty from the 11th to the 17th century. Mostafa Origin: An Arabic name found throughout Egypt. Ababio Origin: Ghanaian. 5. She is fond of classic British literature. 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. Nwachukwu -This surname shows the devout nature of the people towards religion and belief in God. Over nine year more. There are ten countries found in this part of the continent, not counting the island of Madagascar. Buhari is one of South Africa's orthodox surnames. 23. It has its origin in the Shona groups of Zimbabwe. 49. Some of the names on this list have similar meanings but are derived from different languages and tribes. Information on our advertising guidelines can be found. It is a conventional female name among the Yoruba groups and means wealth is sweet. 62. The main difference is that African parents will not just put a label on their progeny without finding out what the label is saying about their hopes and aspirations, beliefs and culture and life experiences. Usually found among the male population of Nigeria, this name means honor surrounds him. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); Totally Wonderful African Surnames and their Astonishing Meanings. Mandela. 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. What we suggest is selected independently by the Kidadl team. 46. Stemming from the Yoruba group, Adeleke means the king/crown/royalty triumphed. Meaning: Child that keeps coming or reincarnation., 5. FamilyEducation does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. 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. Zammit (Tunisian origin) means servant of. This last name originates from the Igbo group. Albaz (Jewish origin) means falconer and originates from Morocco and Algeria. The Akan name is widely used among the girls. 49. Aguta (Igbo origin) meaning "to have many". Odili meaning "peace". It means descendant of the lion clan, and is suitable for both genders. Chalo (Zambian origin) means battle. These beautiful South African names derive from the country's rich history and are influenced by its many languages and traditional inhabitants. Igbinedion It has its origins in the Benin culture and means seeking refuge in the elders protection. 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). An optimistic surname and first name that hopes for prosperity, Adebisi means the king/crown/royalty produced more. There are just too many peculiarities and labels associated with Africa and Africans. Ameziane (Tamazight origin) means little or young, this last name is from a language that is mainly spoken in Algeria. 60. Pretorius Southern African, Afrikaans. Ayenew (Ethiopian origin) means to renew. Meaning: The son of royalty. It is suitable for boys and girls. This name is also masculine in essence. 70. One of the given and last names for boys among the Swahili tribes, Jelani means mighty or full of strength. It is usually given to boys. Phiri (Malawi origin) meaning "mountain". 56. 43. In May 2003 I took a genetics test and found out that Im a direct descendent of the Mandinkas maternally. For instance in Togo, apart from their original meanings, those names also have other interesting meanings. 3. 1. 24. 72. Theophilus Khumalo is a retired South African football player, best known for playing in South Africa's national team. Gavin Wood and Felix February shares more about the idea behind the Slave Calendar that explores the history of surnames of Capetonians. It means a good runner. 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. Bankole (Nigerian origin) means "help me build my house," from the Yoruba ethnic group. 36. Common South African surnames. Mkerref (Moroccan origin) the meaning isnt quite certain. Abiodun (Nigerian origin) meaning "born during festivities," and is from the Yoruba ethnic group. 60. Umburter Derived from the Tiv language, it means remember the father. Quansah (Ghanaian origin) meaning "God is watching". Desmond Tutu is a renowned clerk and theologian, known for his work in the human rights sector. Alaneme (Igbo origin) meaning "the land is active". 51. Teklehaimanot Origin: Ethiopian. It implies that a baby will be the first of many children for couples who have had difficulty in conceiving. We have listed 100 surnames of African origin in this article. 4. 92. You can find some beautiful and popular African last names from countries in eastern Africa. 2022 Sandbox Networks Inc. All rights reserved. FamilyEducation does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This surname shows the devout nature of the people towards religion and belief in God. Luthuli (Zulu origin) meaning "the month of dust". Ghirmai (Unknown origin) means my majesty. It means born on a Friday. 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. Sekou Nkrumah was named after Guineas first President Sekou Toure, while Gamal Nkrumah got his name from Egyptian President Gamal Abdel Nasser. Subscribe for virtual tools, STEM-inspired play, De Beer is a Dutch and Afrikaans surname, meaning "the bear". Izem (Berber origin) from the Tamazight word which means lion. Franklin Ayodele is a famous Nigerian footballer who has this common surname. Chikondi (Malawi origin) means love. Kasongo Origin: Congolese. Answer (1 of 4): Most of these surnames are not Hispanic at all, but Lusophone (Portuguese). It is both a surname and given name of Yoruba origin, which means the crown gained advancement. 44. 55. Similar to the name Adewole, which means the king/crown has entered the house, it has its origin from the Yoruba groups. Noxolo Judith Ncapayi, South Africa. This name from the Igbo tribes means my God is alive or my father lives. We also link to other websites, but are not responsible for their content. De Bruyn Afrikaans. Its female variant is Owusua. 78. 43. It is a globally used Igbo surname which means tiger. She writes baby name articles for MomJunction. Asa directly translates to shield, so Alasa means lord or owner of the shield. Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma is an anti-apartheid activist and politician, who worked under Nelson Mandela as the South African Minister of Health. Even though both of these peoples reside in South Africa, their customs are radically different. 20. Please note: prices are correct and items are available at the time the article was published. 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. 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 . African names have always been associated with personal identity and personality structure expressed in the hopes and aspirations of the parents and passed on to the individual child. Chrizanne (South African origin) from the Afrikaans tribe, this is a combination of Christine and Anne. Subscribe for virtual tools, STEM-inspired play, creative tips and more. It is considered to be primarily male. Haggar (North African origin) means flight. Gowon (Tiv origin) meaning "the rainmaker". Originally a unisex nickname, Oriko is often used as a fond last name. Good question! It can be translated into the land is active. 1. 1. Most Popular African Last Names Or Surnames. Madhurima has completed her Masters in Biochemistry from North Eastern Hill University (NEHU), Shillong. Dikeledi (Botswanan origin) means tears. Meaning: Born with wealth.. Your partner in parenting from baby name inspiration to college planning. Udu means a clay pot to fill water, and Ike means strength. In the Igbo language, Aguta means to have plenty or to have plenty/many. Check your inbox for your latest news from us. 75. Tambo meaning "rope". 23. It is suitable for both boys and girls. Dumisani (South African origin) means praise in Zulu and Ndebele. Abi, Togo, I love my name to death. Hassan Origin: An Arabic name found throughout Morocco. It is typically a male name. The Xhosa as well Zulu languages have 3 distincts clicks X, C and Q but Xhosas use more clicks than Zulus in their everyday conversations. Rothschild. Chisomo (Malawi origin) means grace. It means one who does good to others. Ghanas founding father Kwame Nkrumah chose to name his two sons after fellow African leaders. Afolabi (Yoruba origin) meaning "someone who is born into high status and wealth". Nnadi -This name from the Igbo tribes means my God is alive or my father lives. 27. Chidiozie is a long-established surname in many African communities. My first name is from the bible as Christanity was an old religinon in Ethiopia/Africa. 46. 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. Molungu (Bantu origin) meaning "God". Meaning: Derives from the name Tekle Haymanot, an Ethiopian monk and saint. 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 . The above list includes all the meaningful surnames with their unique meanings. The native African surnames and last names are unique, reflective, and meaningful. 82. 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. 88. For more parenting tips and tricks, find us on Pinterest: Are you a writer, expert, or influencer? Please note: prices are correct and items are available at the time the article was published. hausas are the most populous group in nigeria. 22. 56. This surname has its ancestral roots in Swahili, and means born on Friday. Meaning: God is watching.. What I like about this name is it reflects which tribal group of South Africa I come from. 2. Playing with names really is part of many African cultures. Toure (Soninke origin) meaning "elephant". It means who knows tomorrow, an implication of the uncertainty and potential of the future, in Igbo language. 32. 34. It is considered a male name. Meaning: 'Child of the freeborn man.'. This does not influence our choices. It is considered to be primarily male. Another name that implores to the child is Banmeke, which means hold or sustain the rafter of the house with me. It is usually given to boys. A common last name for boys among the Yoruba people, Ademola means the king/crown/royalty along with wealth. Miriam Makeba was a civil rights activist, United Nations goodwill ambassador, singer and actress. The most common South African surnames come from Nguni clans, which consist of the Zulu, Xhosa, and Ndebele clans. Conteh (Sierra Leone origin) meaning "great eagle". Ait (Berber origin) means son, and is found among people from Morocco. Kidadl is independent and to make our service free to you the reader we are supported by advertising. The following 148 pages are in this category, out of 148 total. This also doesn't include some of the well-known tribes like Igbo and Yoruba.

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