South Africa has more than 10 official languages, leading to diverse origins for many last names. Some come from languages like Afrikaans, Xhosa, Zulu, Ndebele, and Tswana. Besides, various well-known tribes such as Igbo and Yoruba contribute to this mix. Africa, as a whole, is incredibly diverse, blending traditions from various sources to create a rich cultural blend. The blend extends to South African Names, with people adapting names from the various communities.
In South Africa, naming traditions draw from various influences. Surnames can reflect a person’s village, tribe, or individual traits. For instance, the Xhosa community uses family or clan names, often tracing back to a specific patriarch in their tribe, akin to Scottish traditions. Despite both groups residing in South Africa, their naming customs differ significantly but still form part of the South African Names.
Naming Traditions in South Africa
In South Africa, surnames draw inspiration from various sources, including one’s village or tribe, personal attributes, and place of residence.
1. Zulu South African Names
Chosen before birth, the parents perform subsequent ceremonies to express gratitude to ancestors and introduce the newborn.
Zulu Boys Names
| Name | Meaning |
| Anele | Sufficient or adequate |
| Bafana | Boy |
| Bangizwe | Striving for land |
| Bhekimuzi | Caretaker of the household |
| Bhekizizwe | Caretaker of nations |
| Bhekumbuso | Caretaker of dominion |
| Bonginkosi | Gratefulness to the Lord |
| Dumisani | Praise |
| Fanyana | Young boy |
| Funani | Search or desire |
| Gatsha | Branch |
| Kagiso | Peace |
| Kgabu | Rich decoration |
| Langa | Sun, brightness, rebirth |
| Linda | Waiting |
| Lwandle | Ocean |
| Maphikelela | Preservation |
| Mandla | Power or energy |
| Mpilo | Life |
| Mpumelelo | Success |
| Msizi | Helper |
| Mthunzi | Shadow |
| Musawenkosi | God’s grace |
| Ndleleni | On the road |
| Nkanyezi | Star |
| Nkosenye | Another king |
| Nkosiyabo | The King |
| Phila | Well-being, life |
| Philani | To be alive |
| Phiwokwakhe | Given what was rightfully his |
| Sanele | Satisfaction |
| Sfiso | Wish |
| Shaka | Tribal leader’s name |
| Sibusiso | Blessing |
| Siphiwe | We have been given |
| Sipho | Gift |
| Sithembiso | Promise |
| Siyanda | Growth |
| Solomon | Peace |
| Thamsanqa | Luck |
| Thando | Love |
| Themba | Hope |
| Thulani | Quiet or comforted |
| Velaphi | Where from |
| Vusumzi | Household provider |
| Zenzele | Self-reliant |
| Zithulele | Quiet |
Zulu Girls Names
| Name | Meaning of the South African Names |
| Amahle | Beautiful one |
| Ayanda | Constantly increasing |
| Ayize | Let it happen |
| Busisiwe | Bestowed with blessings |
| Buhle | Traveller |
| Duduzile | Comforted |
| Hlengiwe | Redeemed |
| Inyoni | Bird |
| Isisa | Tenderness |
| Jabulile | Cheerful, joyful |
| Khanyisile | Bringer of light |
| Khethiwe | The chosen one |
| Khulekani | Salute |
| Lerato | Love |
| Liyana | Rainy |
| Lukhona | Available |
| Mbalienhle | Beautiful flower |
| Mhambi | Traveler |
| Mthunzi | Shade |
| Nandi | Sweet |
| Ndondoloza | Prudence |
| Nhlakanipho | Wisdom |
| Nkosingiphile | In good health by the Lord |
| Nofoto | Similar to her grandmother |
| Nokuthula | Peace and tranquility |
| Nolwazi | Knowledgeable |
| Nomvula | After the rain |
| Nonhlanhla | Luck |
| Nonkululeko | Freedom |
| Nonjabulo | Happiness |
| Nozipho | Bearer of gifts |
| Ntokozo | Happiness or joy |
| Ntombizodwa | Lady |
| Samukelisiwe | Welcomed |
| Sibongile | Thankful |
| Siphephelo | Place of peace |
| Sindisiwe | Saved |
| Sinenhlanhla | Possessing luck |
| Sizakele | Being helped |
| Sizani | Advantageous |
| Thabisa | Delight |
| Thadie | Beloved |
| Thobeka | Humble |
| Thulisile | Quieter |
| Ulwazi | Knowledge |
| Yibanathi | Be with us |
| Zanele | They are enough |
| Zobuhle | Lady of beauty a special South African Names |
2. Tswana names
Found in South Africa and Botswana, Tswana names are gender-specific and chosen based on circumstances surrounding the child’s birth. The Tswana people, residing in South Africa and Botswana, inhabit a vibrant and diverse landscape. This liveliness resonates within their cultural customs, notably in giving Tswana baby names. Tswana traditions, prompt the naming of a child, often influenced by the circumstances surrounding their birth. Among the traditions, gender determines the type of name one gets and girls’ names reflect a feminine aesthetic while boys’ names exude strength and intellect. Additionally, Tswana people named infants after divine entities and esteemed elders. Discover the array of Tswana names forming part of the South African Names for infants in this compilation. An ideal resource for those seeking a connection to Tswana heritage or drawn to the allure of this land.
| Name | Meaning | Notes |
| Barulaganye | ‘They come immediately after each other’ | A whimsical yet serious name for twins |
| Boipelo | ‘Proud’ | A name not commonly found in top lists |
| Bontle | Reflects exceptional beauty at birth | Reflective of the child’s beauty at birth |
| Botshelo | ‘Life’ | Friendly and approachable name |
| Dikeledi | ‘Tears’ | Stylish option disregarding the meaning |
| Dipuo | ‘Talks’ | Wearable name with easy pronunciation |
| Goitsemedi | ‘The Lord knows’ | Unusual but beloved name in Botswana |
| Gorata | ‘Will’ | Frilly, bold name choice with a twang |
| Gouta | ‘Gold’ | Association with gout might deter some |
| Itumeleng | ‘Joy’ | Distinctive name suitable for girls |
| Keabetswe | ‘We have been given’ | A name waiting for recognition in beauty |
| Keeya | Garden flower | Short and easy to pronounce |
| Tshegofatso | ‘Blessing’ | Emphasizes blessings from the Almighty |
| Tshepiso | ‘Wish’ | Reflects the promise of care and love |
| Tsholofelo | ‘Hope’ | Symbolizes hope amidst life’s challenges |
| Tshweu | ‘White’ | Given to a child with a light complexion |
| Ontlametse | ‘He has protected me’ | Retains strength even in contemporary use |
| Pulafel | ‘Only rain’ | Weather-inspired name |
| Reneilwe | ‘Given’ | Offers a twist in Tswana names |
| Segomotso | ‘A comfort’ | Carries a delightful quality in sound |
| Sethunya | ‘Bloom’ | Feminine floral name with a chic quality |
| Tale | ‘Of noble’ | Short and sweet |
| Naledi | ‘Star’ | Encourages shining brightly |
| Oaitse | ‘He knows’ | Modern-sounding Tswana name |
| Onalenna | ‘God is with me’ or ‘He has protected me’ | Blends style with meaning |
| Masego | ‘Blessings’ | Embraced by many Botswana parents |
| Mmaabo | ‘Their mother’ | Simple and direct |
| Mosetsanagape | ‘A baby girl again’ | Emphasizes having two princesses |
| Motlalepula | ‘One who comes with rain’ | Historical significance from Queen Elizabeth’s visit |
| Mpho | ‘Gift’ | A sassy, ready-to-use name |
| Lesego | ‘Luck/a blessing’ | Rising and shining name |
| Lorato | ‘Love’ | A unique alternative to common names |
| Malebogo | ‘Thanks’ | Full of majesty |
| Kelebogile | ‘I am thankful’ | Emphasizing gratitude towards God |
| Keletso | ‘Wish’ | Reflecting hope for a baby girl |
3. Xhosa names
Second only to Zulu in popularity, the Xhosa language is, spoken largely in South Africa’s Cape ProvinceThey select names based on beliefs and aspirations for the child’s future. In seeking inspiration for naming a child, the Xhosa tradition offers a rich source. Here, we’ve gathered a collection of lovely Xhosa baby names to assist in your selection process. Many parents, drawn to diverse global traditions, find resonance in these Xhosa names. Explore these options to discover the name that resonates most for your baby.
Xhosa Culture
Among the Zulu-speaking population in South Africa, the Xhosa constitute the second largest cultural group. Their native language, known as isiXhosa, is a part of the Nguni language group and boasts numerous variations. They often trace a person’s ancestral history, naming children in honor of their ancestors. Women, upon marriage, incorporate their clan’s name as a prefix to their new surname.
Xhola Names and Their Meanings as South African Names
| Name | Meaning | Gender Type |
| Anathi | They are with us | Unisex |
| Akhona | A present, which your daughter is for you | Unisex |
| Aphiwe | They are given | Unisex, Baby Girl |
| Babalwa | Someone who is graced | Baby Girl |
| Bathandwa | Beloved | Baby Girl |
| Buhle | Signifies beauty | Unisex |
| Bongani | Represents being thankful | Unisex |
| Cebisa | Reflects wisdom and advisory nature | Baby Girl, Intelligent |
| Esihle | Someone who is beautiful | Baby Girl, Beautiful |
| Fezeka | Refers to being fulfilled | Baby Girl, Fulfillment |
| Fundiswa | Signifies education and intelligence | Baby Girl, Educated |
| Funeka | The one who is needed | Baby Girl, Essential |
| Gcobisa | This means the chosen one | Unisex, Exciting |
| Khanyiswa | The one who lights up | Baby Girl, Illuminating |
| Khethiwe | This means a new girl, or a newly born | Baby Girl, Chosen |
| Khunjulwa | The one who will be remembered | Baby Girl, Memorable |
| Kuhle | Signifies wellness | Unisex, Wellness |
| Lindelwa | Someone beautiful | Baby Girl, Awaited |
| Lulama | The one who awaited | Unisex, Gentle |
| Mafungwashe | Someone beautiful at birth | Baby Girl, Firstborn |
| Nomlanga | This means the first girl | Unisex, Strong |
| Nontasasa | The one who is born in the early morning | Unisex |
| Notumato | This signifies being mild and soft-spoken | Baby Girl |
| Nofoto | Signifies similarity to grandmother | Unisex, Unique |
| Nkosazana | Means a princess | Baby Girl |
| Nomble | The one graced with beauty | Unisex, Beautiful |
| Ntombentsha | Means a new girl, or a newly born | Baby Girl |
| Olwethu | The one who is your own | Unisex |
| Qaqamba | The one who shines bright | Unisex |
| Simthandile | Loved by all | Unisex |
| Siphosethu | The one who is your gift | |
| Mahlubandile | An increase in the clan or a new family member | Baby Boy |
| Themba | Signifies trust, faith, and hope | Baby Boy |
| Uuka | Refers to someone ready to rise up | Baby Boy |
| Thandiwe | A loved person | Unisex, Loved |
| Nomlanga | Represents the sun, and symbolizes growth | Baby Boy |
| Bathandwa | Signifies being beloved | Baby Boy |
| Daluxolo | A believer in peace and a peacemaker | Baby Boy |
| Esihle | Signifies beauty | Baby Boy, Beautiful |
| Fezile | Someone who is accomplished | Baby Boy, Accomplished |
| Gcobani | Means a believer in peace and a peacemaker | Baby Boy, Joyful |
| Akhona | Means a present | Unisex, Cherished Gift |
| Anathi | Signifies ‘they are with us’ | Unisex |
| Aphiwe | Means ‘they are given’ | Unisex |
| Aviwe | Signifies ‘the one who has been heard’ | Unisex |
| Ayabonga | Means grateful | Baby Boy |
| Bhutana | Signifies ‘little brother’ | Baby Boy |
| Bonginkosi | Signifies ‘thanking God’ | Baby Boy |
| Bulelani | Means ‘to be thankful’ | Baby Boy |
| Dumisa | Means ‘praise’ | Baby Boy |
| Fezekile | Refers to a person who is complemented | Baby Boy |
| Fezile | Means ‘the one who is accomplished’ | Baby Boy |
| Fundani | Signifies learning | Baby Boy |
| Gugulethu | Means ‘pride’ | Baby Boy |
| Jongikhaya | Means ‘the one who will watch over the home’ | Baby Boy |
| Khwezi | Means ‘star’ | Baby Boy |
| Khuselwa | Means ‘the one who will always protect’ | Baby Boy |
| Langa | Means ‘the sun’ | Baby Boy |
| Lonwabo | Means ‘happiness’ | Baby Boy |
| Lubabalo | Means ‘full of grace’ | Baby Boy |
| Luthando | Means ‘love’ | Unisex, Love |
| Luzuko | Means ‘glory’ | Baby Boy |
| Lwazi | Means ‘knowledgeable’ | Baby Boy |
| Mabhuti | Signifies ‘little brother’ | Baby Boy |
| Madoda | Means ‘men’ | Baby Boy |
| Malibongwe | ‘let it be praised’ | Baby Boy |
| Mandla | Means ‘powerful’ | Baby Boy |
| Mangaliso | Means ‘wonderful’ | Baby Boy |
| Mbulelo | Means ‘thankfulness’ | Baby Boy |
| Meluzmi | ‘the one who represents home’ | Baby Boy |
| Mkhokeli | Means ‘a leader’ | Baby Boy |
| Mthandeni | Means ‘love him’ | Baby Boy |
| Mpumelelo | Means ‘success’ | Baby Boy |
| Nkokheli | Means ‘a leader’ | Baby Boy |
| Nkululeko | Means ‘freedom’ | Baby Boy |
| Ntando | ‘strong-willed’ | Baby Boy |
| Nyaniso | Means ‘truthfulness’ | Baby Boy |
| Qaqambile | Means ‘brightness’ | Baby Boy |
| Sibabalwe | Means ‘blessed’ | Baby Boy |
| Silumko | Means ‘wise man’ | Baby Boy |
4. Afrikaans South African Baby Names
Afrikaans, is a West-Germanic language, spoken in South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe, and Botswana. This diverse blend is reflected in Afrikaans baby names, which might feature Spanish, French, English, and American influences. Read into each name’s origins for an enjoyable journey!
Afrikaans Baby Boy Names
| Name | Meaning |
| Ade | Royal |
| Adem | Afrikaans version of Adam, means ‘red earth’ |
| Adiel | Means ‘goat’, unique and uncommon |
| Adonis | Means ‘God of peace and love’ |
| Adriaan | Means ‘from Adria’, a winning choice |
| Aitan | Variant of Ethan, means ‘strong or fights of possession’ |
| Ajani | ‘he who wins the struggle’ |
| Ajayi | Means ‘eagle’, a modern-sounding name |
| Alake | Means ‘one to be honored’ |
| Amiri | ‘prince’, an alternative to ‘Amir’ |
| André | Classic means ‘blessings’ |
| Arno | The international form of Andrew, means ‘man’ |
| Barke | Means ‘forerunner’ but has an English meaning, an unlikely choice |
| Bash | The international form of Andrew means ‘man’ |
| Bast | Means ‘of the city of Bubastis’ |
| Bayode | Means ‘he comes with joy’ |
| Belay | Means ‘above or superior’ |
| Ben | Means ‘son of’, often a short form of Benedict or Benjamin |
| Bern | Swiss place name, also means ‘peace’ in Afrikaans |
| Bokamoso | Means ‘the future’, rising in popularity |
| Christiaan | Dutch variant of Christian, bold statement of faith |
| Christo | Afrikaans short form of Christian or Christopher, means ‘follower of Christ’ |
Afrikaans Baby Girl Names
| Name | Meaning |
| Aba | Given to girls born on Thursday |
| Abebi | Means ‘we asked and got her’ |
| Abina | Means ‘born on Tuesday’ |
| Adelheid | Dutch form of Adelaide, means ‘nobility’ |
| Adowa | Equivalent to English name Adelaide, means ‘noble’ |
| Agetha | Dutch form of Agatha, means ‘good woman’ |
| Aia | Afrikaans name, means ‘eternal mother’ |
| Akpena | Means ‘thanks to God’ |
| Aletta | Afrikaans form of Alethea, means ‘truth’ |
| Alizea | Form of Hebrew name Aliza, means ‘joyful’ |
| Amahle | Means ‘the ancestors are here’ |
| Amogelang | Means ‘welcoming’ |
| Amore | Means ‘love’ |
| Andrietta | Variant of Andrea, means ‘strong and manly’ |
| Aneke | Dutch and Afrikaans diminutive of Anna, means ‘grace’ |
| Anika | Means ‘sweet-faced’ |
| Anja | Afrikaans variant of Anne, means ‘grace’ |
| Annalie | Form of Hanna, means ‘grace’ |
| Anneline | Diminutive of Anne, means ‘grace’ |
| Arabella | Means ‘yielding to prayer’ |
| Ava | Means ‘life’ |
| Azelle | Feminine form of Azel, means ‘reserved’ |
| Aziza | Female form of Aziz, means ‘precious’ |
| Behati | Afrikaans variation of Beatrice, means ‘she brings happiness’ |
| Berhane | Means ‘my light’ |
| Betje | Means ‘devoted to God’ |
| Bibi | Means ‘lady or grandmother’ |
| Brunelda | Afrikaans form of Brunilda, means ‘armor or protection’ |
| Cazimira | Feminization of Casimir, means ‘destroyer of peace’ |
| Cezanne | Female name similar to Suzanne, means ‘big flower’ |
| Christien | Dutch form of Christine, means ‘follower of Christ’ |
| Collien | Variant of Colleen, means ‘girl’ |
| Corli | Afrikaans diminutive of Cornelia, means ‘horn’ |
| Dane | Form of Danae, used by Homer to designate the Greeks |
| Dolinde | Archaic form of Adelinde, heard occasionally in Netherlands and South America |
| Elize | Afrikaans form of Elise, means ‘consecrated to God’ |
| Elna | Form of Elin or Eleonora, means ‘beloved’ |
| Elsabe | Medieval Dutch form of Elizabeth, means ‘consecrated to God’ |
| Elspeth | Variation of Elizabeth, means ‘consecrated to God’ |
| Elzebe | Variant of Elizabeth, means ‘consecrated to God’ |
| Emmarentia | Influenced by the name Emma, means ‘universal’ |
| Erco | Variation of Erko, diminutive of Erk, means ‘eternal ruler’ |
| Esca | Likely form of Eska, an Inuit name, means ‘a creek’ |
| Estia | Derived from Hestia, Greek goddess of home and chastity, means ‘related to home’ |
| Estie | Diminutive of Ester, simplified form of Esther, means ‘star’ |
| Fleur | Means ‘flower’ |
| Genever | Afrikaans form of Juniper, means ‘juniper tree’ |
| Gizelda | Means ‘hostage’ |
| Hanneleen | Combination of Hanne and Leen |
| Hanneli | Elaborate version of Hannah, means ‘grace’ |
| Isebel | Originates from Jezebel, means ‘not exalted’ |
| Itha | Means ‘industrious one’ |
| Izelle | Uncertain origin, fits well with names like Giselle and Isabelle |
| Jacomie | Feminine form of James, means ‘supplanter’ |
| Jadine | Elaborate form of Jade or feminine variant of Jaden |
| Jan | Means ‘gift of God’ |
| Jeanique | The elaborate form of Keri, the feminine form of Kerry, means ‘dark-haired’ |
| Johanika | A blend of Jeanne and ‘ique’ |
| Jozette | Variant of Kezia, used frequently in Afrikaans-speaking countries |
| Juane | Means ‘Lord is gracious’ |
| Kayla | Means ‘crown or laurel’ |
| Kerina | A version of Johanna, means ‘God is gracious’ |
| Kesiah | Variant of Kezia, used frequently in Afrikaans speaking countries |
| Klara | Afrikaans form of Clara, means ‘bright and clear’ |
| Landi | The short form of Godelieve means ‘loved by the gods’ |
| Laurienne | Used widely in non-francophone countries, including South Africa |
| Lesedi | Means ‘light’ |
| Liandri | Means ‘precious gift’ |
| Lieve | The short form of Louise, means ‘renowned warrior’ |
| Lindia | The short form of Yolandi means ‘violet’ |
| Loraina | Means ‘from the province of Lorraine’ |
| Lorelei | Associated with mermaids infamous for luring sailors, means ‘alluring’ |
| Lou | Short form of Louise, means ‘renowned warrior’ |
Frequently Asked Questions
In African culture, several names represent royalty. Examples include Malik, Oba, Eze, Sultan, Kgosi, and Mandlenkosi. Parents choose the names, as they aspire their children to embody royal attributes and achieve great heights in life.
Jabari is an African name denoting bravery, mainly from Egypt accorded to boys meaning ‘famous’ or brave.
In African tradition, the name ‘Malika’ signifies a queenly presence. Alternatively, ‘Nkosazana’ represents a princess, offering a regal touch to a girl’s name.