Olatunji Usually used as a given name and the last name, Olatunji means wealth awakes again. 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. This page was last edited on 20 June 2022, at 04:46. 11. It is suitable for boys. It means descendant of the lion clan, and is suitable for both genders. The name is an invocation to Ijebu, the god of wealth. Quansah is one of the many surnames that makes reference to religion and a higher power. Albert Luthuli was an African Nobel Peace Prize winner, teacher, and anti-apartheid activist. 89. Over nine year more. 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. Kidadl is independent and to make our service free to you the reader we are supported by advertising. Sarpong (Ghanaian origin) means "great warrior" or "supreme," found among the Ashanti group. Meaning: Mercy. 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. This name is primarily given to male members. Common South African surnames. 98. 2. The culture and diversity of the African continent are seen through its wide range of last names. 13. Bankole (Nigerian origin) means "help me build my house," from the Yoruba ethnic group. It is suitable for boys and girls. Bonolo (South African origin) means ease in the Sotho language. Oyekan (Shona origin) meaning "we are many". Negga/Nega Origin: Ethiopian. Dogo (Nigerian origin) means "little," found among the Hausa in the northern part of Nigeria. 29. 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. Faraji is a common Swahili last name that is loved by all due to its sweetness and candor. Nnadi is an extremely common surname used in much African community. Particularly, the African people dont toy with their surnames. It means one who acts at the time of scarcity. Fundamental All languages Afrikaans Terms by semantic function Names Surnames. Meaning: The Chosen One., 58. Get in touch! 53. Jomana (Arabic origin) means a pearl. Keita It is a Malian surname, which means blessing. Another name that originates from the Shona group is Zivai, which means you must know. It is considered a male name. De Beer is a Dutch and Afrikaans surname, meaning "the bear". Noxolo Judith Ncapayi, South Africa. 53. Katlego (Tswana origin) means success. 6. It is now common in South Africa. 98. Meaning: Lion., 3. Abi, Togo, I love my name to death. The Muslim name Abd-Allah is equivalent to the Gebre Egziabher I mentioned above. 69. Quansah Origin: Ghanaian. They are rich in culture and have versatile meanings and pronunciations. 34. From Latin praetor meaning "leader". 47. Unlike some places, African surnames dont really follow trends or have common features or patterns. 40. They are passionate about turning your everyday moments into memories and bringing you inspiring ideas to have fun with your family. 79. It is a commonly adored name for boys. 1. 59. Ghana's founding father Kwame Nkrumah chose to name his two sons after fellow African leaders. This complex background makes summing up African naming traditions in a few paragraphs very difficult. 60. Boujettif (Archaic origin) means the family of the son of the clever head. Orji is a common surname in many South African cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg. Meaning: When they plan.. Akpabio -Originating from the Ibibio group, Akpabio means leader, noble or prime. There we go! 31. We hope you liked our selection. It has its origin in the Shona groups of Zimbabwe. Meaning: God is watching.. It is usually considered a male name. 55. It is a conventional female name among the Yoruba groups and means wealth is sweet. It means wealth has come home, and is predominantly considered a male name. Anyone using the information provided by Kidadl does so at their own risk and we can not accept liability if things go wrong. Here is a list of popular South African last names. Buhle is a common surname among people who's identity is attached to the Xhosa clan. 79. Eke Eke means superstructure of the roof. Discover the ethnic origin and meaning of last names. Mwanajuma -This surname has its ancestral roots in Swahili, and means born on Friday. Popularized by former US president Barack Obama, the name has its origin in the Luo dialect, and means to lean or bend. Prince David Osei is an admired African philanthropist, investor, entrepreneur and actor. It is considered to be fundamentally masculine. It is one of the most widely used Hausa nicknames which means little. Please note: prices are correct and items are available at the time the article was published. You need to be quite careful and focused to be able to produce these African last names as they should be. 33. This list may not reflect recent changes. Meaning: Unknown. creative tips and more. A name that reflects the gratitude of the family is Chamapiwa, meaning that which you have been given. It is an Igbo surname and nickname, which conveys pride. 9. Helping or aiding others is a common theme found among Afrikaans names. Abebe: The genesis of this Ethiopian name is Amharic, and it means 'flower' or 'blossom'. Olantungi (Yoruba origin) meaning "wealth wakes again". Pages in category "Afrikaans-language surnames" The following 148 pages are in this category, out of 148 total. Copyright 2011 - 2023 MomJunction Private Limited. The rare surname means he says and does as he said he would do, and is considered to be a masculine name. Banchiamalck Dessalegn, Ethiopian in U.S. My name Derefaka figuratively means: Continuing the heritage of our fathers. Kahinu (Swahili origin) means clergyman. It originates in Igbo and means child of the supreme God. A name that praises God is Chidubem, which means God is my guide in Igbo. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); Totally Wonderful African Surnames and their Astonishing Meanings. Chizimu Origin: Malawian (Lambya). Orji Another conventional name that praises physical strength is Orji. Msiza meaning "helper". Abimbola (Nigerian origin) meaning "born into wealth," the name is specific to the Yoruba people of western Nigeria. Among the Hausa tribes of Nigeria, Babangida means the master of the house. Etienam Having its roots in Ibibio, the surname or nickname Etienam means a doer of good or benevolent. Charlize (South African origin) most common as a first name, this is the feminine version of Charles made popular by the actress Charlize Theron. 55. It is usually given to boys. The following 148 pages are in this category, out of 148 total. It is suitable for both boys and girls. Surnames serve as a tool to identify our ancestry. It means peace, suitable for a boy or a girl. Meaning: The night has passed.. Dogo (Hausa origin) meaning "little". Agrinya (Yala origin) meaning "warrior". Musa Origin: Nigerian. SaveIllustration: Momjunction Design Team. Meaning: The son of royalty. Stefanie is a freelance parenting writer and blogger, and has published works on other publications such as Motherly. Its other variants are Wonai and Vonai. Luthuli (Zulu origin) meaning "the month of dust". 62. Ngige meaning "locust". In this context, the father can also mean God. Molungu is a popular surname that many African people in the Bantu community hold. Abioye (Nigerian origin) means "born into royalty," from the Yoruba ethnic group. Kimathi (Kenyan origin) meaning "earnest provider". This also doesnt include some of the well-known tribes like Igbo and Yoruba. 21. Each last name has an origin and a meaning, and we have also included any additional information or history behind some names. It means who knows tomorrow, an implication of the uncertainty and potential of the future, in Igbo language. 25. 14. Meziane is a variation. 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. Okoro - Origin: Nigerian (Urhobo). 22. Bouhouche (Kabyle origin) means father. 1. Mlambo (Xhosa origin) meaning "river". Haliche (Berber origin) the meaning of this name isnt quite certain. 25. 7. 52. Because I am a petite and sweet-looking woman, I find myself often underestimated and underminded. Gowon (Tiv origin) meaning "the rainmaker". Its female variant is Owusua. 29. Mambwe (Zambian origin) meaning "the Lord is good". 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. 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. 100. 3. Mbatha meaning "protector". Subscribe for virtual tools, STEM-inspired play, A common last name for boys among the Yoruba people, Ademola means the king/crown/royalty along with wealth. Dawit (Amharic origin) means beloved. Any information you provide to us via this website may be placed by us on servers located in countries outside the EU if you do not agree to such placement, do not provide the information. 87. 20. Abimbola Origin: West African (Yoruba). Browse our list of the most common South American names and surnames from A-Z. South African names are derived from a variety of African dialects and regional languages. 10. 16. Uduike (Igbo origin) meaning "full of power". Kimathi is a popular last name used in many African provinces. Ayenew (Ethiopian origin) means to renew. Many last names in South Africa make references to royalty. It means the compound remains strong in Igbo language. 30. Many African last names reference wealth and the aristocracy. Having its roots in Ibibio, the surname or nickname Etienam means a doer of good or benevolent. Good question! Osei (Ghanaian origin) means "noble person" or "royalty," and is common among the Akan people. Without any more delays, let's get to the good part and get to know more about some West African last names. Gbeho Origin: Ghanaian. It originates from the Swahili culture and means delight or happiness. Realistically, there is no better description of diversity than with the African people and their last names. In May 2003 I took a genetics test and found out that Im a direct descendent of the Mandinkas maternally. The accuracy of these name definitions cannot be guaranteed. I suppose it depends what you mean by most common . For more parenting tips and tricks, find us on Pinterest: Are you a writer, expert, or influencer? Osei meaning "royalty". 72. 97. Chisomo (Malawi origin) means grace. 45. 3. It also functions both as the last name and a surname. Kidadl is supported by you, the reader. Forebears knows about 821,426 unique surnames in South Africa and there are 66 people per name. Last names come from indigenous, colonialist, and diasporic roots. Achebe (Nigerian origin) meaning "the goddess protects," from the Igbo people of Nigeria. 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. 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. Information on our advertising guidelines can be found. Aguer (South Sudanese origin) means tree. Hlengiwe (South African origin) means redeemed. Mkerref (Moroccan origin) the meaning isnt quite certain. 2. 35. 78. 65. The above list includes all the meaningful surnames with their unique meanings. 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. 64. It is important to know that there are over 10 official languages in South Africa. 43. It is usually given to boys. Well send you tons of inspiration to help you find a hidden gem in your local area or plan a big day out. Elmalik (Arabic origin) means the King, often found in the countries of northern Africa. It means born on a Friday. Boipelo (Botswanan origin) means proud. She writes baby name articles for MomJunction. Your use of the site indicates your agreement to be bound by our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Obama Popularized by former US president Barack Obama, the name has its origin in the Luo dialect, and means to lean or bend. Anyone using the information provided by Kidadl does so at their own risk and we can not accept liability if things go wrong. Sekou Nkrumah was named after Guineas first President Sekou Toure, while Gamal Nkrumah got his name from Egyptian President Gamal Abdel Nasser. 8. 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. It is a popular female given and last name among the Yoruba people, and means a child to be cherished or pampered. Mensah (Akan origin) meaning "third-born". Acheampong Origin: Ghanaian (Ashanti). Originating from the Ibibio group, Akpabio means leader, noble or prime. Madhurima takes a keen interest in parenting and lifestyle. 99. It is usually considered to be suitable for boys. 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. 37. This name is also predominantly given to boys. 58. It is generally given to boys. 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. African last names are a reflection of their customs and peculiar naming traditions. Stemming from the Yoruba group, Adeleke means the king/crown/royalty triumphed. 12. Okoye -It is a conventional surname across various African people and means 'one who is born on orie market day'. Read for more information. Lucas Radebe is a former African football player who became known as 'The Chief' during his time at Leeds United. It implies that a baby will be the first of many children for couples who have had difficulty in conceiving. Her love for content creation made her pivot her career from science to writing. In the Tamazight language, Amaziane means young or little. 82. 47. Kidadl is supported by you, the reader. Uduike Udu means a clay pot to fill water, and Ike means strength. Here is a list of the best and most common African last names from South Africa along with their meaning. 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. Meaning: Unknown. 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). Coetzee Afrikaans. In the Wolof language, Alioune means lofty or sublime. Nenge (Nigerian origin) means "see," found among the Tiv people. Apply this search to the user-submitted names. Your privacy is important to us. Family Education is part of the Sandbox Learning family of educational reference sites for parents, teachers, and students. 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. Akinyemi is a surname found mostly in descendants of the Yoruba people. 57. It is considered to be fundamentally masculine. 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. A name that acknowledges a divine concession is Chukwunyelu, which means God gives in Igbo. Some of these names can also be found in other parts of Africa, but are more commonly found amongst people in northern Africa. 94. Meaning: Guided by God.. Stephen Biko was an African nationalist who was at the forefront of the internal resistance to the apartheid movement. They speak Afrikaans and generally worship in Reformed Christian churches, but exhibit discernible non-European ancestry, in particular African ancestry. Omenuko The surname acknowledges the helpfulness or resourcefulness of a person. 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. It means a good runner. The name can be translated as fullness of power. 26. Masoja Msiza is a South African artist known for appearing in the hit telenovela 'Uzalo'. 38. Chalo (Zambian origin) means battle. Other variants are Efua, Afua, and its male version is Kofi. Amahle (Zulu origin) means the beautiful ones. We try our very best, but cannot guarantee perfection. 68. Boujettif Origin: Northern African (Archaic). 15. Kasongo Origin: Congolese. Nwachukwu (Igbo origin) meaning "child of God". This name is primarily masculine. It has its origin in the Ashanti or Asante group. It is a conventional surname across various African people and means one who is born on orie market day. Their ancestors arrived in South Africa through three different routes: 1. 7. This practice is usually done as a memorial to the heroics of the one who first bore that name. 2. This name is mostly given to sons by the hopeful family. Gumede (Zulu origin) meaning "to end what you have started". Mmeriemikwu (Igbo origin) meaning "to be better.". - wife of Ralph Patrick Murray (1): 3. Sandbox Learning is part of Sandbox & Co., a digital learning company. 51. A hopeful name that reflects an uncertain situation is Biobaku, which means if he or she does not die. 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. The following 67 pages are in this category, out of 67 total. 35. It means one who is born during the festival or war. This list contains Ethiopian last names, Sudanese last names and many more. It means one who has many people to call for help, and is considered typically male. Rooted in the Tiv language, Gowon means the rainmaker. 95. Akosua Adoma Owusu is an African-American producer and filmmaker focused on creating content that depicts the collision of different identities. Zuma meaning "of God". My name is meaningful (in your Gods name Im happy is the direct translation of my first and last names taken together). Achebe is an invocation of a deity, which means the Goddess protects. A popular surname among the Yoruba people from different countries of West Africa, Abimbola means born with wealth. Your partner in parenting from baby name inspiration to college planning. 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). Kidadl has a number of affiliate partners that we work with including Amazon. Mwanajuma (Swahili origin) meaning "born on Friday". Faraji (Swahili origin) meaning "consolation". It is mostly given to girls. 66. Adebisi Origin: Nigerian (Yoruba). Meaning: 10th-born child. This is one of the beauties associated with African surnames. 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. Its other variants are Orjea, Orjee, Orjey, Orjie, and Orjy. But 32 years later the late Laurent Kabila kicked Mobutu out, and re-baptised the country the Democratic Republic of Congo. Answer (1 of 6): No, some similarities but very different spelling. This name is suitable for both genders. 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. Toure (Ghanaian origin) means "elephant," from the Soninke word. Chedjou Origin: Cameroonian. 95. Nnadi -This name from the Igbo tribes means my God is alive or my father lives. Acheampong (Ashanti origin) this last names means "destined for greatness," found among the Ashanti people of Ghana. 50. how do go about changing your name to an African name? 70. 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 . Meaning: Born with wealth.. 44. Abioye (Yoruba origin) meaning "son of royalty". 41. Abiodun Origin: Yoruba. Mangosuthu Buthelezi was an African tribal leader and one of the founders of the IFP (Inkatha Freedom Party). Sometimes used as a first name, this surname means the king/crown/royalty opens the belly/ womb. We also also Afrikaan. Dlamini: Another among South African names of Etswana origin that means royalty. Her love for content creation made her pivot her career from science to writing. Accordingly, all letters that make up these last names must be duly considered and put into perspective while trying to pronounce them. Africa is home to several language families and hundreds of languages all these different cultures countries and people have something in common they can be found now world wide and one way of keeping and telling others about your roots is African Surname and there for it is considered as very important in todays African culture. Akinyemi (Yoruba origin) meaning "destined to be a warrior". 92. 99. Meaning: Bushbuck.. 75. Kenyatta -A common name among the Kenyan people, Kenyatta means musician. Of Yoruba origin, the name means the crown is good. 81. Umburter (Tiv origin) meaning "remember the father". A little under 10% of South Africa's population are Cape Coloureds. Hi, I am writing a novel and the main character (a girl) is from Sudan. Check your inbox for your latest news from us. It also means once or one time in the Nguni languages such as Ndebele, Xhosa, and Zulu. 14. Most Popular African Last Names Or Surnames. 50. 34. ywl -It means the river goddess has come home. The surname acknowledges the helpfulness or resourcefulness of a person. By joining Kidadl you agree to Kidadls Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receiving marketing communications from Kidadl. 81. 100 Most Popular Indian Last Names For Your Baby, 150 Popular Rich Last Names Or Surnames Across The World, 135 Most Popular English (British) Last Names Or Surnames, 35 Wild And Rugged Western Or Cowboy Names For Boys, 250 Modern Indian Baby Boy Names For 2023, 120 Unique Tswana (Setswana) Baby Names For Boys And Girls, 107 Festive Themed Christmas Baby Names For Boys And Girls, 100 Amazing Short Baby Girl Names With Meanings, 100 Sweet AndShort Names For BoysWith Meanings, 150 Traditional And Popular Dutch Last names Or surnames, 55 Most Popular Chilean Baby Names for Girls and Boys, 148 Funny Last Names Or Surnames From Across The World, 150 Common Canadian Last Names Or Surnames, With Meanings, 20 Unique Baby Names That Are Inspired By Public Figures, 80 Stylish Baby Girl Names With Their Meanings, 100 Unique Zulu Baby Names For Boys And Girls, 101 Charming And Chirpy Bird Names For Baby Girls And Boys, 52 Baby Names That Mean Luck, Destiny, Or Fortune For Boys And Girls, 100 Wondrous Baby Names Inspired By Nature For Girls And Boys, 130 Precious Gemstone Baby Names For Girls And Boys. It means sturdy or mighty tree. 78. The names in this section are not just limited to the country, South Africa, but also to other regions in the southern part of the continent of Africa. 28. 90. 68. Though hypodescent started out as a tool . The genesis of this Ethiopian name is Amharic, and it means flower or blossom. You will find the place of origin and the meaning of each name in this list too. Thank you! Gebreyes (Ethiopian origin) means servant of. 25. It means descendant of the lion clan, and is suitable for both genders. Tersoo It has its origin in the Tiv language, and means fathers love. Information on our advertising guidelines can be found. 83. Adisa (Yoruba origin) meaning "one who is clear". Ghanas founding father Kwame Nkrumah chose to name his two sons after fellow African leaders. It means the one that I have is greater. Toure (Soninke origin) meaning "elephant". Dlamini is also the surname of the reigning royal family of eSwatini. It means born into wealth or born into high status. Miriam Makeba was a civil rights activist, United Nations goodwill ambassador, singer and actress. One of the many surnames that appreciate the divine is a Yoruba name Folorunsho, which means under Gods protection. Meaning: We added to the crown.. Feel free to also check out the history of these surnames as well to help you learn a little bit more about your background. Adebisi (Yoruba origin) meaning "the king produced more". 97. Onai (Shona origin) meaning "call to observe". In Igbo language, it means my land is not lost. By joining Kidadl you agree to Kidadls Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receiving marketing communications from Kidadl. Otueome The rare surname means he says and does as he said he would do, and is considered to be a masculine name. Back to top? Nnadi (Igbo origin) meaning "my father lives". Enjoyably, the pronunciation of these African surnames gives you a thrill that you can never get with any other set of Surnames. Pretorius Southern African, Afrikaans. 67. 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. Hamadache (Algerian origin) the meaning is unknown. Whilst this is a list of last names, many of the last names on this list have also been used as first names too. What a wonderful name; Maduabuchi Onwuachimba (Igbo-Nigeria). Oyekan -Generally used as a masculine name, it means we have increased or multiplied or we are many among the Shona group of Zimbabwe. Molungu (Bantu origin) meaning "God". There are 54 countries, between 900 and 1,500 languages, and several thousand ethnic groups in Africa, according to Britannica. 44. Afia (Akan origin) meaning "born on a Friday," commonly found in Ghana and the Ivory Coast. It is a globally used Igbo surname which means tiger. Meaning: Servant of God., 6. 27. Archi Gumede was a prominent African politician, lawyer and human rights activist. YM, Ethiopia. It is usually given to boys. Okeke is an Igbo last name common in many ethnoreligious communities in South Africa. Deressa (Ethiopian origin) the meaning of this name isnt quite clear. 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.