Kgosi Sechele I
A prominent 19th-century chief of the Bakwena tribe known for his diplomacy and leadership during colonial times.
IPA Pronunciation
/bɑːˈkweɪ.nɑː/
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Syllables
The name Bakwena originates from the Tswana language of Southern Africa, where it means 'crocodile.' It is derived from the Bantu root words associated with water and strength. Historically, the crocodile is a powerful totem and symbol of protection, resilience, and leadership among the Tswana people and related ethnic groups, reflecting qualities admired in a male figure.
Cultural Significance of Bakwena
Bakwena is the name of one of the major Tswana tribes in Botswana and South Africa, known historically for their leadership and warrior spirit. The crocodile totem symbolizes strength, wisdom, and guardianship. The name carries deep respect, denoting one who embodies protective qualities and societal leadership. It is often linked with pride in heritage and cultural identity among Tswana people.
Bakwena Name Popularity in 2025
In contemporary Southern Africa, Bakwena remains a respected and meaningful name, although it is less commonly used as a first name and more often associated with the Bakwena tribal group. Its symbolism of strength and protection appeals to modern parents seeking traditional names with powerful meanings. The name also sees interest among cultural enthusiasts and those keen on preserving indigenous heritage.
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International Variations10
BakweñaBakwinaBakwanaBakwenyaBakwanaeBakuennaBakwennaBakwenjaBakwenahBakuenya
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More Boy Names Starting With B10
Name Energy & Essence
The name Bakwena carries the essence of “Crocodile, symbol of strength and protection” from Tswana (Bantu) tradition. Names beginning with "B" often embody qualities of stability, nurturing, and groundedness.
Symbolism
Cultural Significance
Bakwena is the name of one of the major Tswana tribes in Botswana and South Africa, known historically for their leadership and warrior spirit. The crocodile totem symbolizes strength, wisdom, and guardianship. The name carries deep respect, denoting one who embodies protective qualities and societal leadership. It is often linked with pride in heritage and cultural identity among Tswana people.
Kgosi Bathoen I
Leader of the Bakwena during the late 19th century noted for resistance to colonial encroachment and maintaining cultural identity.
Kgosi Mosadi Seboko
The first female chief of the Bakwena tribe, symbolizing progressive leadership and female empowerment within traditional structures.
Kgosi Moremi III
A chief known for his efforts in uniting various Tswana groups and promoting social cohesion.
Kgosi Gaborone
An influential Bakwena leader whose name was given to Botswana's capital city, reflecting his historical significance.
Kgosi Lekoko
A key Bakwena chief involved in land negotiations during early colonial administration periods.
Kgosi Kgafela I
Known for strengthening the Bakwena's cultural identity and military power in the 19th century.
Kgosi Kgafela II
A 20th-century Bakwena leader noted for modernizing tribal governance and education.
Bakwena Molefe
Musician
Bakwena Ramogase
Politician
Bakwena Modise
Academic
Bakwena Tshekedi
Business Leader
Bakwena Motsamai
Artist
Bakwena Dintwe
Author
Bakwena Kgosi
Activist
Bakwena Sehloho
Engineer
The Crocodile's Path ()
Tswana Legends ()
Spirit of the River ()
African Totems ()
The Protector ()
Legacy of the Crocodile ()
Shadow of the Kwena ()
River Guardians ()
Bakwena
🌐Spanish
Bakwena
🌐French
Bakwena
🌐German
Bakwena
🌐Italian
バクウェナ
🌐Japanese
巴克韦纳
🌐Chinese
باكوي نا
🌐Arabic
Fun Fact About Bakwena
The name Bakwena means 'crocodile,' and the Bakwena tribe historically used the crocodile as a totem, symbolizing leadership and the ability to navigate both water and land with ease.
Personality Traits for Bakwena
Individuals named Bakwena are often thought to be strong-willed, protective, and natural leaders. They tend to exhibit resilience, wisdom, and a calm demeanor akin to the crocodile's quiet strength. Such personalities are dependable, courageous, and deeply connected to their roots, inspiring others through their steadfastness and integrity.
What does the name Bakwena mean?
Bakwena is a Tswana (Bantu) name meaning “Crocodile, symbol of strength and protection”. The name Bakwena originates from the Tswana language of Southern Africa, where it means 'crocodile.' It is derived from the Bantu root words associated with water and strength. Historically, the crocodile is a powerful totem and symbol of protection, resilience, and leadership among the Tswana people and related ethnic groups, reflecting qualities admired in a male figure.
How do you pronounce Bakwena?
Bakwena is pronounced (IPA: /bɑːˈkweɪ.nɑː/). It has 2 syllables with the pattern N/A.
What are nicknames for Bakwena?
Popular nicknames for Bakwena include: Bakw, Kena, Baki, Kwa, Bako, Kenny, Bakwie, B-Ken, Bawa, Kena-B.
Who are famous people named Bakwena?
Famous people named Bakwena include: , , , , .
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Bakwena is a beautiful Tswana (Bantu) name meaning “Crocodile, symbol of strength and protection”. The name Bakwena originates from the Tswana language of Southern Africa, where it means 'crocodile.' It is derived from the Bantu root words associated with water and strength. Historically, the croco...
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