Trending South African baby names in 2024
As we approach the end of 2024, expecting parents in South Africa are making important decisions about the names they will give their children.
South Africa’s diverse cultural landscape has a significant influence on the names chosen, with popular names reflecting a blend of African and European traditions.
According to research from Stats SA and BabyCenter, here are some of the top trending South African baby names for 2024. These lists showcase names that are influenced by culture, religion, and the unique circumstances surrounding each birth. Some names are new to the scene, while others remain perennially popular.
Top 10 Trending Girls’ Names
African
- Melokuhle
- Omphile
- Iminathi
- Lisakhanya
- Lethabo
- Amahle
- Lesedi
- Rethabile
- Lethokuhle
- Junior
European
- Olivia
- Amelia
- Emma
- Sophia
- Charlotte
- Isabella
- Ava
- Mia
- Mia
- Luna
Source: Stats SA and BabyCenter
The number one name for girls in 2024 is Melokuhle, meaning “good things.” Another popular name is Lethabo, which signifies “joy and happiness.” Interestingly, some names like Amahle, Melokuhle, Lethabo, Junior, and Lethokuhle appear on both the boys’ and girls’ lists, making them unisex names.
Top 10 Trending Boys’ Names
African
- Lethabo
- Lubanzi
- Melokuhle
- Junior
- Lethokuhle
- Siphosethu
- Omphile
- Lwandle
- Banele
- Amahle
European
- Noah
- Liam
- Oliver
- Elijah
- Mateo
- Lucas
- Levi
- Ezra
- Asher
- Leo
Source: Stats SA and BabyCenter
For boys, Lethabo ranks as the most popular name, followed by Lubanzi and Melokuhle.
These names, rooted in African languages, reflect themes of positivity and peace, while European names such as Noah, Liam, and Oliver continue to hold their place among the top choices.
In addition to naming trends, Stats SA reports some key insights into birth rates in South Africa.
Most births occur in January, March, and May, and teenage pregnancies remain a significant concern, with over 45,000 expected in 2024. Of the half a million babies expected to be born this year, nearly 490,000 will be boys.
Births are concentrated in the more populous provinces, with Gauteng accounting for 22% and KwaZulu-Natal for 20%, while the Northern Cape and Free State have the lowest birth rates at 3% and 5%, respectively.
The landscape of South African baby names in 2024 is ever-evolving, as parents increasingly seek names that reflect both tradition and modernity. Whether inspired by African heritage or European influences, the names chosen today will shape the identities of tomorrow’s generation.
Also read:
