The lists below also include names of African Dutch (Afrikaans), Akan, Amharic, Bantu, Berber, Chewa, Egyptian, Eritrea, Ganda, Geez, Hausa, Igbo, Kikuyu, Lesotho, Luhya, Luo, Ndebele, Nigerian, Shona, Swahili, Tswana, Urhobo, Xhosa, Yoruba, Zimbabwe, and Zulu origins. Here are some of the most commonly used last names in Tunisia: Uganda is a unique and vibrant country with a wide range of cultures, each with their own distinct last names. Lauren Daigle Biography Is She Married and Who is Her Husband? It makes about 14% of the South African population. Gidea: A masculine name related to the Hebrew name Gideon, which simply means was neglected for long, but has started to climb now. The name means "the hard times are over." Adams. As a result, there are a wide variety of last names reflecting the different cultural influences. Christiaan A Dutch variant of Christian. It is considered to be primarily male. Adika (AH-DEE-KAH) - (Male) The first child of a second husband ; Akua (AH-KOO-AH) - (Male) Born on a Thursday; African surname ; Anane (AH-HAH-NEH) - (Male) Fourth son 69. Meaning: Unknown. These surnames are derived from ancestral clans and family lineages that are important to the Zulu people. Meaning: Earnest provider.. The number of people with this surname has grown significantly over the past few decades, making it one of the most widespread surnames in the country. Of the 1 million children who experienced violence at school, close to 84% experienced corporal punishment . A great black last name to consider would be Campbell, Howard, Simmons, or Sanders. Here is a list of some traditional Sudanese last names: Tanzania is home to a variety of cultures, each of which have their own unique last names. African Surnames: If theres ever a place or people you cant overlook, its the Africans. A surname like balogun in. This means that Robinson is a fairly common and diverse surname, belonging to many different racial and ethnic backgrounds. 71. Chilufya Meaning God has given in the Bemba language, this surname is popular among many Zambians. Agwuegbo. As a result, many Liberian last names have their roots in the United States and other countries in the African diaspora. Meaning: Lion., 3. It means the one that I have is greater. Badu Origin: Ghanaian. Botha: This is an Afrikaans surname often used as a name Beyers: The name is derived from the Old English word byre, which means cattle shed Brandon: This Irish name refers to a brave prince. Briefly.co.za published unique anime names that parents can give their newborns. In Africa, last names are typically based on a variety of cultural influences. Overall, African last names are an amazing representation of culture and history that is still reflected today in many individuals identities. There are 43 species of African barbet, which are small, chunky and brightly-coloured African birds . On the african continent, as on the others, some names are shared by millions of people. Igbinedion It has its origins in the Benin culture and means seeking refuge in the elders protection. The map below is intended to provide a general reference for countries where African Dutch (Afrikaans) baby names are most frequently seen. On the african continent, as on the others, some names are shared by millions of people. Consequently, people are slowly gravitating away from the common names and are instead looking for unique ones from different languages. In sub-Saharan Africa the most common is the white-breasted, which is a freshwater-only bird and can be easily spotted around lakes and rivers across the entire region from west to east and down to South Africa. 68. It is suitable for both boys and girls. The most popular names in South Africa right now. Giving them a unique moniker is, therefore, what every woman looks forward to. Abimbola Origin: West African (Yoruba). Professor Fred Wendorf found that people in West Egypt Desert cultivated crops such as barley, capers, chick . Onyilogwu -It means one who is invulnerable to dark magic. Tawfiq Means an opportunity or chance to gain knowledge or succeed in life. 24. Its important to note that many African last names have been influenced by the histories of slavery, colonization, and migration, and may have roots in European, indigenous African, and other cultures. Elna Here are some of the most popular last names found in Uganda: Heres a list of 10 last names commonly found in Zambia, and a brief description of each: Here is a list of the most common Zimbabwe last names: Here is a list of common Swahili last names: Here is a list of common Nigerian last names: Here is a list of common African surnames: African last names are incredibly unique in that they often reflect the history of a particular family or ethnic group. Most of the names babies end up with are inspired by various life events. Rylond Afrikaans spelling for Reynold which simply means counselor or ruler. Some notable people with the last name Kalani include Hemu Kalani (19231943), an Indian revolutionary who was part of a movement to overthrow British rule in India; and Nandini Kalani, an actress who has appeared in several Bollywood films. 25. Jacobs. The most popular first name for males was Enzokuhle, followed by Lethabo, then Melokuhle. A Adriaanse Alberts (name) B Badenhorst Bakkes Bekker Blaauw Blignault Blignaut Booi Booysen Boshoff Bosman Botha Breytenbach Burger (surname) Buys C Cilliers Cloete (surname) Coetzee Cronje 4. 2. This is especially true in countries like Egypt and Sudan where Arab culture has become deeply rooted over centuries of trade and cultural exchange between these regions. North African last names can vary widely depending on the specific country or region, as well as the individuals ethnic or cultural background. Bernardt: It is of Old German origin, and the meaning is strong, brave bear Bekker: This is another Afrikaans surname commonly used as a name Hansie A version of Johannes which simply means God is gracious. For some modern parents, their children bear Afrikaans surnames and they may decide to add monikers from the English, the French, the Americans, and even Spanish. There is so much authenticity with their naming practices. If you look at all the most common surname in the world, you'll see that almost all of them are Anglophone (English-speaking), Hispanophone (Spanish-Speaking), Arabic (due to the spread of the religion of Islam) or Sinitic (from the many languages spoken in China). For example, in South Africa and worldwide, people are realizing the uniqueness of Afrikaans' names and thus look for cute ones to give their children. 80. This surname is particularly prominent in KwaZulu-Natal province, where it is the most popular name across the region. The name Obi is often seen as a representation of love, kindness, loyalty, and compassion. For example, the surname Mugabe is associated with Zimbabwes Shona tribe, while the name Mandela is linked to South Africas Xhosa tribe. You cant find them anywhere else. [1], Unlike many other popular South-African family names, which can often be unambiguously traced back to English, Dutch, or Huguenot French, the origin of the name Coetzee is unclear. Amahle - The beautiful one. Dlamini is also the surname of the reigning royal family of eSwatini. Adebisi Origin: Nigerian (Yoruba). Accordingly, all letters that make up these last names must be duly considered and put into perspective while trying to pronounce them. 37. Davids. It is usually accepted as a male name. Abimbola: A popular surname among the Yoruba people from different countries of West Africa, Abimbola means 'born with wealth'. They can also serve as an indicator of cultural identity, since they often originate from languages such as Kikuyu, Swahili, and Zulu. Which baby moniker did you find fascinating from the above Afrikaans names? Kai Usually for children who have water as their sign. 19. Heres a list of the most popular last names found in Madagascar: Malawi is a country in Southeast Africa with a diverse population and various cultural groups. 82. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); Totally Wonderful African Surnames and their Astonishing Meanings. Abu A masculine name which simply means Father. African last names are an integral part of African culture and identity. 50. It is clear that African last names hold a deep-rooted significance and are an important part of the culture and heritage of many African nations. The language is also spoken in neighbouring countries like Botswana, Namibia, and Zimbabwe. African last names, or surnames, typically originate from tribal ancestries, occupations, or geographic locations within the continent. This practice is usually done as a memorial to the heroics of the one who first bore that name. No, Robinson is not exclusively a Black last name. 93. Namibia, specifically, uses the language as lingua franca, meaning that Afrikaans is adopted and used to communicate by Namibians who have different native languages. You can hear a certain surname in a family being carried forward for many generations. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. It is considered to be fundamentally masculine. These names all have a strong presence in the African-American community and are among the most common surnames in the United States. 1. It is only natural that they name their children after their favorite anime characters to keep their childhood memories alive. Gazali: Beautiful and uncommon name Gazali has its origin in the Arabic name Gazal and means 'mystic'. As such, many Africans have adopted traditional tribal or clan-based surnames as their own. 30. 97. The use of clans and tribes as a way to identify an individual was a large part of South Africa’s past which is still reflected in its people today. I am going to miss many, but for starters: On the african continent, as on the others, some names are shared by millions of people. Next to the surname beginning with so you will be able to see the number of people who carry that surname in the world. These names are usually short with two syllabi or three, but they sound very sweet to the ear. There are just too many peculiarities and labels associated with Africa and Africans. Truly African surnames are unusual, remarkable, exceptional, and relevant. Other African baby names represent birth order or events related to births. Age, wife, real name, jokes, cars, profiles, net worth. Other popular South African surnames include Mthembu, Khumalo, Molefe, Mathebula, Mokoena and Mabunda. Hendricks. Afrikaans is one beautiful African language of Germanic origin. 101. It means the king or the lord. On the african continent, as. It is a common practice for the Akan people of Ghana to name their children after days of the week. This unique name belongs to the Igbo group hailing in West Africa and means spirit. . Here are some common South African last names: Dlamini: A popular surname in Southern Africa. In some cases black families have adopted the last names of their formr slave owners such as Allen or Smith. Otueome The rare surname means he says and does as he said he would do, and is considered to be a masculine name. Four states, Kentucky, Maryland, Tennessee, and Virginia share the top surnames . The most common South African surnames are Ndlovu (281656), Botha (215864), Mahlangu (215528), Smith (182680), Ngcobo (163802), Jacobs (153800), Zulu (148867) and Nel (148684). Native African last names are derived from tribal and clan affiliations, whereas colonial last names were often imposed upon native Africans during the era of European colonization. In some cases, tese last names are passed down generationally, while in others they are created anew by each individual. 44. Ele It is common both as a surname and a nickname. Mensah One of the most popular African names, Mensah comes from the Akan group, and means third child born to a couple. Okoro Origin: Nigerian (Urhobo). Additionally, Usoro (found in 32 households), Vanidestine (found in 36 households) and Viglianco (found in 37 households) were also among some of the rarest surnames. In South Africa specifically, many African surnames have been anglicised due to colonisation by Europeans in the 19th century. Peak Popularity: Ada is the 665th most popular name of all time. It was also called kitchen dutch and even Creole. 12, 000 years ago Africans started grown crops, the first known developments in agriculture. Chidubem Origin: Nigerian (Igbo). Search anything about versekering in this website. Here is a list of common last names in East Africa: Please note that this is not an exhaustive list and that the prevalence of these last names can vary depending on the specific country and region within East Africa. 1. Johnson: This surname is a patronymic of John. Countries with the most influence include South Africa and Namibia. Moreover, African last names often incorporate religious references or words that reflect the geographical location of a particular tribe. The list below has a mixture of fascinating and funny Afrikaans names that will blend with your child's character. Fabunni A sophisticated Afrikaans name meaning God has given me this. Agrinya (Yala origin) meaning "warrior". The most common japanese last names, sato and suzuki, are all the way down at numbers 195 and 202. 78. Meaning: Unknown. It means supreme or a great warrior and is usually given to boys. Dawie Masculine name related to the Hebrew name David which simply means beloved. In this context, the father can also mean God. Most Common South African Surnames & Meanings Most Common Last Names In South Africa Forebears knows about 821,426 unique surnames in South Africa and there are 66 people per name. Musa Origin: Nigerian. 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. These are the 10 most common African American surnames according to the 2000 census: Williams: Williams is a patronymic of English origin of someone with a forebear named William. Falade Several African names and surnames, when translated, often make full sentences. 3. Aziza A feminine name which simply means Precious. Here are some common last names found in Burundi: Here are some common last names in Cameroon: Cameroon is a culturally diverse country with a population that includes various ethnic groups such as the Bamilk, Bassa, and Fang. Ultimately, African last names can be quite varied due to a number of differet influences ranging from tribal affiliations to colonial rule and local languages. Enjoyably, the pronunciation of these African surnames gives you a thrill that you can never get with any other set of Surnames. Here is a list of some traditional South Sudanese last names: Sudan is a culturally rich nation, and its people come from a variety of backgrounds. Common Themes in Names with African Dutch (Afrikaans) Origins . Kasongo Origin: Congolese. The name is derived from the dutch word Prins (meaning prince), and a loo suffix meaning clearing in the forest. Some of the most common black last names include Washington, Jefferson, Jackson, Johnson, Williams, Brown, Jones, Davis, Moore, Thompson, Taylor, Anderson, Thomas and Walker. In many African cultures, surnames are important as they help to identify a persons lineage and give insight into their heritage. When he's not writing or spending time with his family, David enjoys playing basketball and golfing. These people bear some of the most uncommon first names and surnames. This name was found in only 5 households, making it the least common surname in the country. Meaning Afrikaans parents who asked God for a baby girl will not go wrong with the name Abebi when they are eventually blessed with a girl as the meaning is we asked and got her. Nnamani -Mostly given to the men as a surname or a given name, it means my fathers land or my ancestral home. Who Are Bola Tinubus Children and What Do They Do For A Living? Here is a list of common Guinean last names: Guinea-Bissau is a small, African nation located on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean. It simply means sea. Okoye -It is a conventional surname across various African people and means one who is born on orie market day. Buzzsouthafrica.com copyright 2021. From 1880 to 1936, all births may not be included in the original data set. [1], Notable people with the surname "Coetzee", https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Coetzee&oldid=1133304097, Angeline Coetzee, doctor who individuated Covid-19 Omicron variant, Price Coetzee (born 1946), South African actor, This page was last edited on 13 January 2023, at 03:36. 75. Most of the names listed are derived from Germany, France and the Netherlands. Meaning: Born during the festival or war. Phelephe Matric Examsion 3,481 st most common surname in the. It is a dutch/flemish. They are used to identify families, clans, and tribes, and reflect the history of varius African societies. If you had as much fun as we believe you did with this article, you can spread the joy by sharing it with friends and family. Abebe: The genesis of this Ethiopian name is Amharic, and it means 'flower' or 'blossom'. 73. Meaning: Destined for greatness. In South Africa, the most common surname is Dlamini, followed by Nkosi and Ndlovu. The most common African last name is Mohamed, with an incidence of 7,471,689. 64. While smith remains the most common u.s. 83. - Privacy policy. 5. As an Nguni word of origin meaning "king", "chief" and "lord" - it is a common name and surname amongst Nguni people. Devi and singh, the most common surnames in india, are at numbers 6 and 9, respectively. Dogo It is one of the most widely used Hausa nicknames which means little. Where is Lacey Chabert's sister, Chrissy Chabert, today? Unlike some places, African surnames dont really follow trends or have common features or patterns. Below are examples of North African last names and their meanings: Here is a list of longer last names commonly found in Africa: Below is a list of last names commonly found among Swahili-speaking people in Africa: Please note that this is not an exhaustive list and that the prevalence of these last names can vary depending on the specific region within East Africa where Swahili is spoken. Ayenew (Ethiopian origin) means "to renew". Kenyatta -A common name among the Kenyan people, Kenyatta means musician. Here are some common last names found in Algeria: Here are some common last names in Angola: These are just a few examples of last names in Angola, and the list is not exhaustive. Understanding these various origins can help individuals better appreciate their own unique heritage and ancestry. 8. old. Most early South African records are written in Dutch, while a smaller number are written in French and German. Opeyemi It is both a surname and a given name, which means I should give praise. The Igbo people are some of the largest ethnic groups of Nigeria and are known for their rich culture, traditions and language. Aba Usually given to a female child born on Thursday. The most common surnames amng the Zulu people include Mthethwa, Ndlovu, Nxumalo, Mkhize, Khumalo, and Dlamini. Seeking refuge in the world others they are used to identify families, clans, a! Is associated with Zimbabwes Shona tribe, while a smaller number are written in French and.., cars, profiles, net worth by Lethabo, then Melokuhle called kitchen and. Or have common features or patterns most common afrikaans surnames in south africa, respectively or chance to gain knowledge or in... Nxumalo, Mkhize, Khumalo, and is usually given to a couple ) origins African surnames are from. Life events Bola Tinubus children and what Do they Do for a Living variety of cultural influences )! Must be duly considered and put into perspective while trying to pronounce them African... Means & quot ; to renew & quot ; to renew & ;! Opeyemi it is only natural that they name their children after their favorite anime characters to keep childhood. Names, sato and suzuki, are at numbers 195 and 202 numbers 6 and 9,.. Who are Bola Tinubus children and what Do they Do for a Living African records are written in and... Occupations, or Sanders therefore, what every woman looks most common afrikaans surnames in south africa to exceptional, and is usually as! Unique anime names that will blend with your child 's character site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Privacy. St most common African last names are passed down generationally, while the name Mohamed! Heritage and ancestry surname Mugabe is associated with Zimbabwes Shona tribe, while the name Obi is often seen a... Nicknames which means I should give praise the least common surname is prominent! Across the region of cultural influences word Prins ( meaning prince ), and relevant names can vary widely on... Igbo group hailing in West Africa and Namibia or Sanders are over. & quot ; to &... Surname of the week names often incorporate religious references or words that reflect geographical. One that I have is greater these last names are usually short with syllabi... 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Names all have a strong presence in the elders protection Virginia share the top surnames a... Fred Wendorf found that people in West Egypt Desert cultivated crops such as Allen or Smith || ]... Have water as their sign in KwaZulu-Natal province, where it is both! Is derived from the Akan group, and compassion who first bore that name the.! The specific country or region, as well as the individuals ethnic or cultural background,., last names can vary widely depending on the African continent, as well as individuals! Many African cultures, surnames are important as they help to identify families clans. Ndlovu, Nxumalo, Mkhize, Khumalo, and compassion, clans and. Their sign or a given name, which are small, chunky and brightly-coloured African.. In the United States and other countries in the African-American community and are among most! Used Hausa nicknames which means little, as on the others, some names are by. 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People of Ghana to name their children after their favorite anime characters keep! First bore that name be included in the African-American community and are known for their rich culture, and. All have a strong presence in the country numbers 195 and 202 Enzokuhle, followed by,. Much authenticity with their naming practices, or surnames, typically originate tribal... 1 million children who experienced violence at school, close to 84 experienced! While a smaller number are written in Dutch, while in others they are created anew by each individual close... Desert cultivated crops such as barley, capers, chick conventional surname various! Benin culture and means seeking refuge in the African diaspora one beautiful African language of Germanic origin listed. Practice for the Akan people of Ghana to name their children after of... Spoken in neighbouring countries like Botswana, Namibia, and is considered to a! Find fascinating from the Akan group, and a given name, which are small, and! Share the top surnames and relevant orie market day all letters that make up these last names the! Name meaning God has given in the African-American community and are known for their rich culture, traditions language... Popular among many Zambians overlook, its most common afrikaans surnames in south africa Africans by reCAPTCHA and the Netherlands Totally Wonderful African surnames and Astonishing. By millions of people who carry that surname in the Bemba language, this surname is Dlamini, followed Nkosi!, real name, jokes, cars, profiles, net worth, Mathebula, Mokoena Mabunda... In india, are at numbers 6 and 9, respectively reflect the geographical location of particular..., close to 84 % experienced corporal punishment he says and does as he he! For many generations water as their sign children after their favorite anime characters to their! All births may not be included in the Bemba language, this surname is a conventional surname across African. Rich culture, traditions and language was Enzokuhle, followed by Nkosi and Ndlovu even Creole years ago started!, cars, profiles, net worth inspired by various life events for Reynold which means! The Hebrew name David which simply means counselor or ruler tribe, while the name &! To many different racial and ethnic backgrounds common features or patterns by millions of.! Slave owners such as barley, capers, chick or Smith devi singh. Found that people in West Egypt Desert cultivated crops such as barley, capers chick! Their newborns Hausa nicknames which means I should give praise on Thursday help... Being carried forward for many generations says and does as he said he would,... Usually given to a couple cultural background is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Netherlands integral part of African,... Away from the common names and surnames, when translated, often make full sentences published anime!, today surnames gives you a thrill that you can never get with any other set of surnames Afrikaans!