38. 51. Feel free to also check out the history of these surnames as well to help you learn a little bit more about your background. Onai Having its origin in the Shona group of Zimbabwe, the name means a call to observe or to see that which has happened. 21. 70. Much like Scotland, most last names can date back to a particular patriarch within the tribe that which the name was based. 75. This name is also predominantly given to boys. 88. De Beer Afrikaans. Orji Another conventional name that praises physical strength is Orji. Desmond Tutu is a renowned clerk and theologian, known for his work in the human rights sector. 31. Bankole (Yoruba origin) meaning "build my house for me". By joining Kidadl you agree to Kidadls Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receiving marketing communications from Kidadl. 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: Destined for greatness. Alinafe (Malawi origin) means he is with us. In May 2003 I took a genetics test and found out that Im a direct descendent of the Mandinkas maternally. The name can be translated as fullness of power. Tawedzwegwa Purpose Katakwa, Zimbabwe. Chifundo (Malawi origin) means mercy in the Chewa language. An optimistic surname and first name that hopes for prosperity, Adebisi means the king/crown/royalty produced more. It is suitable for both boys and girls. 70. 94. Meaning: The night has passed.. Adomako Origin: Ghanaian. Many common South African last names make references to natural occurrences. In many languages of Ethiopia for example, typical names are compounded of the divinity and some aspect of it. 68. Faraji is a common Swahili last name that is loved by all due to its sweetness and candor. Abimbola (Yoruba origin) meaning "born with wealth". Negga (Ethiopian origin) means "the night has passed". Mwanajuma -This surname has its ancestral roots in Swahili, and means born on Friday. You contact them to see if you share . Mahlangu meaning "one who carries the shield". Eke Eke means superstructure of the roof. It is an Igbo surname and nickname, which conveys pride. Onyilogwu -It means one who is invulnerable to dark magic. Kimathi Origin: Kenyan. Over nine years, she has helped various brands with compelling, well-researched, and unique content. 83. 5. Albert Luthuli was an African Nobel Peace Prize winner, teacher, and anti-apartheid activist. 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. 19. 3. Africa is the land of abundant natural resources and cultural diversity. 86. 73. 100. 14. 96. 61. On this Wikipedia the language links are at the top of the page across from the article title. She is fond of classic British literature. Ndiaye (Senegal origin) meaning "descendant of the lion clan". Zadzisai (Shona origin) meaning "fulfillment of a promise". Banchiamalck Dessalegn, Ethiopian in U.S. My name Derefaka figuratively means: Continuing the heritage of our fathers. 11. There is so much authenticity with their naming practices. 29. It is usually accepted as a male name. Boujettif Origin: Northern African (Archaic). Sekou Nkrumah was named after Guineas first President Sekou Toure, while Gamal Nkrumah got his name from Egyptian President Gamal Abdel Nasser. Okeke (Igbo origin) meaning "born on Eke". Olantungi (Yoruba origin) meaning "wealth wakes again". Amadou Toumani Toure was a radical Malian military leader who served twice as Mali's president. It is actually an oxymoron, a religious friend has suggested I change my name BUT, why should I? Lucas Radebe is a former African football player who became known as 'The Chief' during his time at Leeds United. It is suitable for both boys and girls. Shaka Zulu was the leader of the Zulu Kingdom in the early 19th century. It means destined to be a warrior in Yoruba language. 77. Mlambo (Xhosa origin) meaning "river". Some of these names can also be found in other parts of Africa, but are more commonly found amongst people in northern Africa. You can find some beautiful and popular African last names from countries in eastern Africa. Subscribe for virtual tools, STEM-inspired play, Its variant is Chike, which means Gods power. Ayenew (Ethiopian origin) means to renew. 61. Get in touch! 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. 9. Kalu (Ibo origin) meaning "God of thunder", Kalus is one of the most prominent surnames found in the African continent. Kidadl is supported by you, the reader. Our recommended activities are based on age but these are a guide. It is a Malian surname, which means blessing. Okoro Origin: Nigerian (Urhobo). The name can be translated as fullness of power. 72. Orji meaning "mighty tree". Sometimes also a given name for boys. Themba Ndaba is a renowned South African director who selected the cast of 'Zone 14' and 'Machine Gun Preacher'. The Ashanti or Asante people anticipate a good future for their children by giving the name Acheampong, which means destined for greatness. 71. Among the Shona people of Zimbabwe, Anotidaishe means the Lord loves us. 96. It means mine is worthy of thanks or gratitude, and is suitable for both boys and girls. Other variants are Efua, Afua, and its male version is Kofi. 75. What a wonderful name; Maduabuchi Onwuachimba (Igbo-Nigeria). Examples are Afrikaans, Xhosa, Zulu, Ndebele, and Tswana to name a few. 26. 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. 27. Deng Mador K-Dengdit, Sudanese in Australia, African names like most traditional names like John (Yahweh is gracious) , Patrick (nobleman) , Natasha (christmas day), Abdul (servant of..) etc.. have meanings. 82. One of the given and last names for boys among the Swahili tribes, Jelani means mighty or full of strength. 23. This also doesn't include some of the well-known tribes like Igbo and Yoruba. Your partner in parenting from baby name inspiration to college planning. It is both a surname and given name of Yoruba origin, which means the crown gained advancement. 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. Sarpong It has its origin in the Ashanti or Asante group. It is considered a male name. Abara: Originating from the Igbo group of West Africa, Abara means 'spirit'. How big and representative is the sample. As Africa is made up of 54 countries (making it the second-largest continent in the world), its naming systems are diverse. From Latin praetor meaning "leader". 3. It is now common in South Africa. Adebisi (Nigerian origin) meaning "we/the King gave birth to more," from the Yoruba ethnic group. We try our very best, but cannot guarantee perfection. Abebe: The genesis of this Ethiopian name is Amharic, and it means 'flower' or 'blossom'. This diversity is evident in all facets of their existence and it is very prominent. 19. Mensah is a common last name used by families residing in various parts of Africa, such as South Africa. Folorunsho One of the many surnames that appreciate the divine is a Yoruba name Folorunsho, which means under Gods protection. A common last name for boys among the Yoruba people, Ademola means the king/crown/royalty along with wealth. For example Gebre-Egziabher in the Ethiopian/Eritrean languages of Amharic/Tigrinya means Servant of God and those are Christian names. Toure (Ghanaian origin) means "elephant," from the Soninke word. Franklin Ayodele is a famous Nigerian footballer who has this common surname. 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. Phukuntsi (Tswana origin) meaning "one who attracts flies". 88. It is suitable for both boys and girls. Mohammed Praise-worthiness and laudability, 57. It means the one that I have is greater. 76. Kidadl is independent and to make our service free to you the reader we are supported by advertising. A mainstream name among the Igbo surnames in Nigeria, Obi means heart. This is why many last names technically have different origins. 8. Ganizani (Botswanan origin) means think in Chewa. It means he came in a joyful time or the king/crown/royalty meets joy in Yoruba. Teklehaimanot Origin: Ethiopian. 76. It means sturdy or mighty tree. 4. Ngige is one of the most old-fashioned surnames that people in Africa have. African Surnames: If theres ever a place or people you cant overlook, its the Africans. Kanye -Popularised by celebrity rapper Kanye West, the Igbo name Kanye means lets give or to give honor or tribute. Meaning: 10th-born child. It is considered a male name. From the first tribes on the earth to modern-day societies, African names represent ancestral meanings. For example if you were born on a Monday and named Kojo or Kodjo for a boy or Adjo for a girl, you would be taken as a zealous man or woman because Monday is the first day of work after the weekend, and if you were born on a Wednesday and named Kokou for a boy or Akwa for a girl, you were taken as a half-lazy person because people usually work or go to school for just the first half of the day -from 7 to 12- and use the other half as leisure time, and if you were born on a Sunday and named Kossi for a boy or Kossiwa for a girl, you were taken as the child of God, the pure, pretty child because people dress up pretty to worship God at the mass on Sunday. 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. One of the most popular and optimistic Xhosa names is Gcobani, which means be joyful. Nnadi (Igbo origin) meaning "my father lives". Among the Hausa tribes of Nigeria, Babangida means the master of the house. ywl -It means the river goddess has come home. Malan. It is important to know that there are over 10 official languages in South Africa. 93. 88. Explore the most common surnames in South Africa. It is suitable for boys. 64. Meaning: Title given to firstborn male children of the Ibibio/Efik people. Eesuola It has its roots in Yoruba and it means a lot of wealth. 73. Abara (Igbo origin) meaning "spirit". 69. 99. By joining Kidadl you agree to Kidadls Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receiving marketing communications from Kidadl. Aguer (South Sudanese origin) means tree. We also also Afrikaan. 8. 56. Toure (Soninke origin) meaning "elephant". Stemming from the Yoruba group, Adeleke means the king/crown/royalty triumphed. Keita It is a Malian surname, which means blessing. My first name is from the bible as Christanity was an old religinon in Ethiopia/Africa. Bongani (South African origin) means thankful or grateful in Zulu. Molungu is a popular surname that many African people in the Bantu community hold. 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. Check your inbox for your latest news from us. Conteh (Sierra Leone origin) meaning "great eagle". Chedjou Origin: Cameroonian. 78. The most common South African surnames come from Nguni clans, which consist of the Zulu, Xhosa, and Ndebele clans. 63. They are passionate about turning your everyday moments into memories and bringing you inspiring ideas to have fun with your family. 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). The Akan name is widely used among the girls. 8. This surname is possibly derived from the Sonink word tr, which means elephant. 67. 64. 85. 30. 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. A name that praises God is Chidubem, which means God is my guide in Igbo. Your use of the site indicates your agreement to be bound by our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Another conventional name that praises physical strength is Orji. Dikeledi (Botswanan origin) means tears. Quansah (Ghanaian origin) meaning "God is watching". Widely used among the Yoruba families, it means help build our house or build my house for me. Nenge -This unusual surname means see in Tiv. Here is a list of the best and most common African last names from South Africa along with their meaning. 35. 83. The Igbo people do not use family names. It means a good runner. Charlize (South African origin) most common as a first name, this is the feminine version of Charles made popular by the actress Charlize Theron. Its other variants are Orjea, Orjee, Orjey, Orjie, and Orjy. 87. It is a common unisex name. Amel (North African origin) means hope. 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. 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. Kidadl has a number of affiliate partners that we work with including Amazon. Find your South African last name, meaning, and origins. This list may not reflect recent changes. Meaning: The son of royalty. Nwachukwu -This surname shows the devout nature of the people towards religion and belief in God. 49. Another surname of Igbo origin, Agwuegbo means the hardship is over. Amaike (Igbo origin) meaning "the compound stays strong". Lupondo South African. 16. 38. 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. A name that reflects the gratitude of the family is Chamapiwa, meaning that which you have been given. 74. Discover the ethnic origin and meaning of last names. It is generally considered a boy name. Miriam Makeba was a civil rights activist, United Nations goodwill ambassador, singer and actress. Well send you tons of inspiration to help you find a hidden gem in your local area or plan a big day out. Sandbox Learning is part of Sandbox & Co., a digital learning company. Last name Onwuachimba means Death could never wipe out a community. Back to top-1. Names such as Mwanajuma Friday, Esi Sunday, Khamisi Thursday, and Wekesa harvest time refer to the time or day when the child was born. Mazigh (Arabic origin) means free man. Ameziane (Tamazight origin) means little or young, this last name is from a language that is mainly spoken in Algeria. Tersoo It has its origin in the Tiv language, and means fathers love. Afrikaans names shared by family members. Temitope It means mine is worthy of thanks or gratitude, and is suitable for both boys and girls. It is usually considered a male name. My family name has a click C as well. Kasongo (Congolese origin) meaning "bushbuck". Bankole (Nigerian origin) means "help me build my house," from the Yoruba ethnic group. It is a globally used Igbo surname which means tiger. In this context, the father can also mean God. Abbas Origin: An Arabic name found throughout Algeria. 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. Adisa (Yoruba origin) meaning "one who is clear". 2. Accordingly, all letters that make up these last names must be duly considered and put into perspective while trying to pronounce them. South African variant of Both. 10. Meaning: Unknown. Most Popular African Last Names Or Surnames, Infographic: Top African Surnames Rich In History And Culture. Madhurima takes a keen interest in parenting and lifestyle. 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. If you want your babys name to be promising, then, this is the perfect name to choose. Achebe (Nigerian origin) meaning "the goddess protects," from the Igbo people of Nigeria. An appreciative masculine name that embraces a new arrival with positivity, it means the king/crown/royalty filled the house. It means one who does good to others. We can be baptised another Kenyan/African and more meaningful name than being another of the somewhat bland Peters and Janes of the world. 43. The genesis of this Ethiopian name is Amharic, and it means flower or blossom. 89. It has its roots in the Shona group of Zimbabwe, and means fulfilment of a pledge or a promise. Without any more delays, let's get to the good part and get to know more about some West African last names. It also means the next to be crowned among the Yoruba speaking groups. Meaning: Unknown. 68. Kidadl has a number of affiliate partners that we work with including Amazon. creative tips and more. If anything the french names have remained the same and are quite common in South Africa. It is generally regarded as suitable for boys. Quansah is one of the many surnames that makes reference to religion and a higher power. Her love for content creation made her pivot her career from science to writing. 11. Its other variants are Wonai and Vonai. according to the nigerian census. Okusanya (Yoruba origin) meaning "God has rewarded me". It is usually considered a male name. It is a commonly adored name for boys. 14. 71. Buthelezi (Zulu origin) meaning "chief". This information is for educational purposes only and not a substitution for professional health services. 54. 90. 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. 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. Rothschild. Taleb A devoted student or a seeker of knowledge, 92.