Abu – A masculine name which simply means “Father”. 93. Photo: unsplash.com, @jmasonSource: UGC. We also link to other websites, but are not responsible for their content. African names like most traditional names like John (Yahweh is gracious) , Patrick (nobleman) , Natasha (christmas day), Abdul (servant of..) etc.. have meanings. Abebe (Ethiopian origin) means "blossom" or "flower". Ayanda (South African origin) means “they are increasing,” found in the Zulu, Ndebele, and Xhosa tribes. In the African language, its meaning is “humble”. 29. BOUJETTIF Northern African (Archaic) Meaning, "The family of the son of the Clever Head" or "One Whom Possess a … Afumba (Zambian origin) meaning "when they plan". Haliche (Berber origin) the meaning of this name isn’t quite certain. 51. Madalitso. This is the name of Kiswahili origin that means “gentleman”. Naledi. South African baby names . We will always aim to give you accurate information at the date of publication - however, information does change, so it’s important you do your own research, double-check and make the decision that is right for your family. South Africa, like the name suggests, is a country on the southern side of the continent. Jump to navigation Jump to search. Lui - Famous warrior Some of these are definitely combined. West African Last Names West Africa is home to some of the most popular African last names. Kidadl cannot accept liability for the execution of these ideas, and parental supervision is advised at all times, as safety is paramount. Kagiso (Tswana origin) means “peace”. Due to colonization, French surnames can be found in English-speaking countries, and have influenced African and Arabic surnames, too. Mokrani (Berber origin) refers to a town in Algeria. African last names are popular around the globe. Most African communities name their children in regards to events, character, seasons, place of birth, weather, mom’s situation at birth, time of birth among other factors. 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. Being the largest continent on the planet and encompassing a large variety of cultures and people, there is rich diversity in parenting traditions. 76. 7. 43. 65. Alinafe (Malawi origin) means “he is with us”. Photo: unsplash.com, @banugSource: UGC. Keita Origin: Malian Meaning: ‘Worshipper.’ Kimathi Origin: Kenyan Meaning: ‘Earnest provider.’ Bankole Origin: West African (Yoruba) Meaning: ‘Build my house for me.’ Gbeho Origin: Ghanaian Meaning: Unknown. There are hundreds of South African baby names from where you can find a suitable identity for your kid. As such, someone's name is likely to tell you more about his country of origin and tribe. 35. Most … Here you will find some great Nigerian last names, like Abimbola which means "born into wealth" and Obi, which means "heart". When you buy through the links on our site we may earn a commission. Adebisi (Nigerian origin) meaning "we/the King gave birth to more," from the Yoruba ethnic group. 73. Boipelo (Botswanan origin) means “proud”. 2. Our recommended activities are based on age but these are a guide. Abu – A masculine name which simply means “Father”. Jump to navigation Jump to search. Chisomo (Malawi origin) means “grace”. Similarly, Nigerian last names have a wonderful history and an interesting way of being given. These countries have their own beautiful languages, resulting in a range of different names that are unique to this region. In the 2000 U.S. Census, America counted more than 160,000 people with the surname Washington. 79. 42. 5. BOUHOUCHE Berber, Northern African. Chrizanne (South African origin) from the Afrikaans tribe, this is a combination of Christine and Anne. Names are of huge significance in the continent and that is why some cultures go as far as having naming ceremonies where families officially name their children in the presence of other people. Bwana. 30. What we suggest is selected independently by the Kidadl team. Moreover, they are characterised by the availability of the prefix Al-.. 58. Amel (North African origin) means “hope”. Here are some unique South African surnames. PRINSLOO Afrikaans Prinsloo is an Afrikaans surname. Deressa (Ethiopian origin) the meaning of this name isn’t quite clear. There are also hundreds of languages spoken on the continent, providing endless interesting meanings of each last name. List of Popular Afrikaans Names and Meanings. Washington. Whilst this is a list of last names, many of the last names on this list have also been used as first names too. Alioune (Senegalis origin) meaning "sublime" or "lofty". Benhaim (Judoe origin) means “son of life”. Meghnagi (Libyan origin) could refer to zion. 44. 18. Ghana is another West African country known for its rich cultures.  Some of the names on this list have similar meanings but are derived from different languages and tribes. Hamadache (Algerian origin) the meaning is unknown. Names such as Mwanajuma “Friday”, Esi “Sunday”, Khamisi “Thursday”, and Wekesa “harvest time” refer to the time or day when the child was born. We try our very best, but cannot guarantee perfection. During the naming process, parents tend to confine themselves within cultural lines. Read our Sponsorship & Advertising Policy. Baharia (Swahili origin) means “one who sails,” common among the people of Tanzania and Kenya. Bongani (South African origin) means “thankful” or “grateful” in Zulu. 81. Here are common Egyptian last names. Meaning: God's grace. Gebreyes (Ethiopian origin) means ”servant of”. Chimwemwe (Malawi origin) means “pleasure” or “joy”. Pages in category "Afrikaans-language surnames" The following 138 pages are in this category, out of 138 total. We have listed 100 surnames of African origin in this article. Kenyan surnames and African names, in general, are a window into a particular ethnic group or relation to some form of African culture or geographical region. This list may not reflect recent changes ( learn more ). Bouhouche (Kabyle origin) means “father”. During the naming process, parents tend to confine themselves within cultural lines. Most Popular African Last Names Or Surnames: 1. 4. 89. 33. 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. Nenge (Nigerian origin) means "see," found among the Tiv people. Meaning: ‘Child that keeps coming or reincarnation.’ Kanumba Origin: Tanzanian Meaning: Unknown. 50. Some of these names can also be found in other parts of Africa, but are more commonly found amongst people in northern Africa. Nigeria, a beautiful, diverse, African country home to the Niger River, and a rich history of culture and tradition. Whether you’re writing fiction or building out a D&D campaign, you know that choosing the right names for your characters is a tough task.You want to make sure your characters' names are appropriate, memorable, and meaningful! Anyone using the information provided by Kidadl does so at their own risk and we can not accept liability if things go wrong. See how many you recognize: Irish, French, Russian, Spanish, Mexican, Brazilian, Portuguese, Italian, and African last names, among others. Fuli (Swahili origin) means “very fast”. Cilmi (Somali origin) means “smart”. Something went wrong while submitting the form. Kidadl provides inspiration to entertain and educate your children. Here you will find some great Nigerian last names, like Abimbola which means "born into wealth" and Obi, which means "heart". 3. Jomana (Arabic origin) means “a pearl”. Your newsletter will be with you soon. Photo of person sitting on sofa. Over the years, it has evolved by incorporating other languages like Portuguese, Malay, and a few of the Bantu languages. Hlengiwe (South African origin) means “redeemed”. Common African last names are a reflection of a person's tribe. We hope you love our recommendations for products and services! Check below for common Swahili surnames. Every Ethiopian last name has a meaning. Talia (Arabic origin) means “lamb” or “dew of God”. A man carrying an Ethiopian flag. 77. 36. 31. Here are some of them with their meanings. 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. Nigeria, a beautiful, diverse, African country home to the Niger River, and a rich history of culture and tradition. 10. Mazigh (Arabic origin) means “free man”. Category:Surnames of African origin. Category:Surnames of African origin. Ankia. Amahle (Zulu origin) means “the beautiful ones”. 1. 8. 22. Abara is a common last name in the Igbo community. 17. The northern part of Africa, according to the UN, is made up of seven countries. 96. African last names or surnames have deeper meanings than many think. At Okwu ID we are drafting a register archiving Igbo surnames and their meanings. Connotation: A blessed person. Nigeria has numerous tribes, including the Igbo and Yoruba people. African last names have reflective and unique meanings. Leballo Lebusa Lekoelea Lekota Mahao Mahlasela Majoro Makwetla Mangoaela Mbeki Modise Moeketsi Mohapi Mokitimi Mokoena Mopeli Mothopeng Mutsi Ngoepe Nkoli Tsutsulupa Tutu Kahinu (Swahili origin) means “clergyman”. In African culture, it is very important to have the clan’s name with their name even though you don’t have a surname. Katlego (Tswana origin) means “success”. If you’re here to uncover the meaning and origin of popular African American last names, then you’ve come to the right place. Photo: pexels.com, @Askar AbayevSource: UGC. Here are some unique South African surnames. 82. Popoola (Nigerian origin) means "intelligent people," found in the Yoruba ethnic group. Boitumelo (Botswanan origin) means “joy”. Kidadl is independent and to make our service free to you the reader we are supported by advertising. African names represent ancestral meanings from the first tribes on the planet to modern day societies. List of Popular Afrikaans Names and Meanings. African American surnames have also gained popularity. Oops! Abara (Igbo origin) meaning "spirit". This list also contains some of the most common Yoruba surnames, like Adebayo and some interesting Igbo last names. 97. 99. Like most African countries, South Africa has many tribes. This list contains Ethiopian last names, Sudanese last names and many more. Swahili is a language commonly spoken in Kenya and Tanzania. Albaz (Jewish origin) means “falconer” and originates from Morocco and Algeria. 57. Siddig (Arabic origin) meaning “friend”. South Africa, like the name suggests, is a country on the southern side of the continent. Ethiopian surnames are popular among the natives of that particular country. Kids who bear warrior names usually grow with a strong character demonstrating strength, vigour, courage, and exceptional ability to conquer certain life situations. In the 2000 U.S. Census, America counted more than 160,000 people with the surname Washington. Elmalik (Arabic origin) means “the King,” often found in the countries of northern Africa. The prefix in front of the Arabic surnames corresponds to the article “the” in English (e.g. Common African last names are a reflection of a person’s tribe. 40. Here is a list of popular South African last names. 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Ech (North African origin) meaning “edge” or “corner”. 26. 69. Nigerian Last Names – Popular Surnames and Their Meanings . 41. 2. 87. 64. Like most African countries, South Africa has many tribes. 45. 44. These are some of the most famous African last names you will come across. Africa which is the third largest continent in the world has their own cultures and beliefs which also differs among the tribes and nations in Africa.One of the easiest ways to identify the origin of every African is through the names they bear, the name of each individual that is from Africa has a way of linking to his or her African origin. Many African last names reference wealth and the aristocracy. Also known as Sesotho or Tswana. Boujettif (Archaic origin) means “the family of the son of the clever head’. Ait (Berber origin) means “son,” and is found among people from Morocco. 94. Fungai (South African origin) means “think”. You will find the place of origin and the meaning of each name in this list too. 25. 83. Owusu (Ghanaian origin) means "strong will and determined". Kenya is a country on the eastern side of the African continent. This tells you why Nigerian surnames are completely different from those from South Africa. Africa is the second-largest continent on earth with an equally large population. Some other Ashanti last names - Acheampong, Osei, Tuffour, Adu, Kuffour, Asante, Agyeman(g), Oppong, Asamoah and more. Its meaning is “born on Tuesday”. Are you looking for names for your little bundle of joy? 63. 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. READ ALSO: Cool warrior names for girls and boys. When you hear Ghanaians with English or rather Westernised last names, they’re normally Fante as well. Grigahcine (Kabyle origin) this last name is most widely found in Algeria. Find out some great southern African names with this list. Aba – Usually given to a female child born on Thursday. Please note: prices are correct and items are available at the time the article was published. 42. Ladipo (Nigerian origin) meaning "wealth and prosperity," peculiar to the Yoruba people. Without any more delays, let's get to the good part and get to know more about some West African last names. 16. Each last name has an origin and a meaning, and we have also included any additional information or history behind some names. 52. 11. Mambwe (Zambian origin) meaning "the Lord is gracious". The country has about 42 tribes. Legit.ng recently published an article on cool warrior names for boys and girls. Also known as Sesotho or Tswana. Achebe (Igbo origin) meaning "the Goddess protects". Kaloki (Kenyan origin) the meaning isn’t quite known. 78. Mkerref (Moroccan origin) the meaning isn’t quite certain. Umburter (Nigerian origin) means "remember the father," found among the Tiv people. 71. 54. 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. Itumeleng (Botswanan origin) means “joy”. As such, someone's name is likely to tell you more about his country of origin and tribe. African names like most traditional names like John (Yahweh is gracious) , Patrick (nobleman) , Natasha (christmas day), Abdul (servant of..) etc.. have meanings. Chipo (Shona origin) means “gift”. Charlize (South African origin) most common as a first name, this is the feminine version of Charles made popular by the actress Charlize Theron. Thank you! This category has the following 26 subcategories, out of 26 total. Abimbola (Nigerian origin) meaning "born into wealth," the name is specific to the Yoruba people of western Nigeria. Dogo (Nigerian origin) means "little," found among the Hausa in the northern part of Nigeria. 104 Best Strong Female Names For Your Baby, 105 Best Gothic Girl Names That Are Beautifully Inspiring, 110 Inspiring 1800s Names That Are Charmingly Old Fashioned, 77 Beautiful Country Girl Names For Your Southern Belles, 100 Excellent Boys Names Beginning With E, 89 Best Moon Related Names That Will Eclipse All Others, 100 Best Boho Hippie Names That Are Totally Far Out. Palakiko - The Hawaiian version of the English for Francis, which means one who is frank Haoa - The Hawaiian form of the name Howard, which means, an exalted protector, chief or chief guardian. Pages in category "Afrikaans-language surnames" The following 138 pages are in this category, out of 138 total. African last names have reflective and unique meanings. Let’s dive in! To understand these common surnames, we must take a look at African American ancestry. Pronunciation : case sensitive: see the pronunciation key for a guide on how to write the sounds; sounds can only be searched in names that have been assigned pronunciations * is a wildcard that will match zero or more letters in the pronunciation example: *lee matches names which end with the sound lee _ is a wildcard that will match exactly one letter in the pronunciation We recognise that not all activities and ideas are appropriate and suitable for all children and families or in all circumstances. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Photo: @tailorturtleSource: UGC. This does not influence our choices. This list may not reflect recent changes (). Lerato Significance: A call to love another person. 68. Other languages have also evolved by picking up things like Afrikaans baby names. 1,000 of inspirational ideas direct to your inbox for things to do with your kids. 24. This category has the following 26 subcategories, out of 26 total. This is why you hardly see an African man bearing a Western name as his last name. Subcategories. Bilaal (Somali origin) means “moistening”. It is believed that it came about because of the intermarriage between the coastal Bantus and the Arab travellers. 55. Common African last names are a reflection of a person's tribe. 13. West Africa is home to some of the most popular African last names. 62. 21. SUNETTE f English (American, Rare), Afrikaans, Dutch (Rare) Meaning uncertain. Similarly, Nigerian last names have a wonderful history and an interesting way of being given. Here are some of the most common African American last names. If you don’t discover a name you like, please review the 5,508 names in The African Book of Names or try our African Name Generator. 37. To understand these common surnames, we must take a look at African American ancestry. 49. The following list of the most commonly occurring surnames in America includes details on each name's origin and meaning. Ouahmed (Berber origin) meaning “son of Ahmed”. The culture and diversity of the African continent are seen through its wide range of last names. South African last names. Achebe (Nigerian origin) meaning "the goddess protects," from the Igbo people of Nigeria. Jlassi (Tunisian origin) means “loyalty” or “sincerity”. African women names of South African origin are with deep meanings. During the naming process, parents tend to confine themselves within cultural lines. Presented below is over 50 Ewe names, meanings and their roots for your consideration. 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. Ganizani (Botswanan origin) means “think” in Chewa. Axmed (Somali origin) the variant for Ahmed. There are plenty more of them, though. Ndiaye (Senegal origin) meaning "descendant of the lion clan". Common African last names are a reflection of a person’s tribe. Other languages have also evolved by picking up things like Afrikaans baby names. 74. African last names are popular around the globe. Spoken in the southern countries of Africa, especially Lesotho and Botswana. : Al-Amin – stands for The Trustworthy). During the naming process, parents tend to confine themselves within cultural lines. 18. Kidadl has a number of affiliate partners that we work with including Amazon. —Kenya, Uganda (Luhya) Enjoy these royal names..