Kgosi Mokwena I
A prominent 19th-century Tswana chief known for uniting various clans under the Mokwena name and resisting colonial encroachment.
IPA Pronunciation
/moสหkwษ.nษห/
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Syllables
Mokwena is a name of Sotho-Tswana origin, derived from the word 'Kwena', meaning 'crocodile', a symbol of strength and leadership in Southern African cultures. The prefix 'Mo-' signifies 'person of' or 'belonging to', thus Mokwena means 'person of the crocodile clan' or 'leader of the clan', embodying bravery and authority historically respected in tribal societies.
Cultural Significance of Mokwena
In Sotho-Tswana cultures, Mokwena is more than a name; it symbolizes a connection to the crocodile clan, a totemic emblem representing power, protection, and leadership. Historically, clan names like Mokwena signified social identity and lineage, essential in maintaining tribal unity and respect. The crocodile is revered for its strength and resilience, traits passed down to those bearing the name.
Mokwena Name Popularity in 2025
Today, Mokwena remains a respected and popular name in Southern Africa, particularly among the Tswana and Sotho people. It is often chosen for boys to inspire strength and leadership qualities. While traditional in origin, the name has transcended tribal boundaries and is embraced in urban settings, reflecting a blend of cultural pride and modern identity among young families.
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International Variations10
MokwinaMokwenoMokwengaMokwenaeMokweneMokweniMokwinaeMokwehnaMokwannaMokwensa
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More Boy Names Starting With M10
Name Energy & Essence
The name Mokwena carries the essence of โLion or leader of the clanโ from Sotho-Tswana tradition. Names beginning with "M" often embody qualities of wisdom, intuition, and emotional depth.
Symbolism
Cultural Significance
In Sotho-Tswana cultures, Mokwena is more than a name; it symbolizes a connection to the crocodile clan, a totemic emblem representing power, protection, and leadership. Historically, clan names like Mokwena signified social identity and lineage, essential in maintaining tribal unity and respect. The crocodile is revered for its strength and resilience, traits passed down to those bearing the name.
Mokwena Modise
A 20th-century Sotho warrior and leader who played a key role in preserving traditional customs during the apartheid era.
Mokwena Seboko
An influential tribal elder and historian who documented Sotho-Tswana oral traditions in the early 1900s.
Mokwena Phiri
Famed for his diplomatic efforts to create peace between warring clans in the late 19th century.
Mokwena Kgatla
A respected elder who preserved the crocodile totem customs among the Kgatla people.
Mokwena Tshabalala
Leader during the early resistance against European colonization in Southern Africa.
Mokwena Dlamini
Known for his role in documenting clan histories and genealogies in the early 1900s.
Mokwena Lebogang
A key figure in Sotho-Tswana cultural preservation during the mid-20th century.
Mokwena Mahlangu
Politician
Mokwena Mokoena
Artist
Mokwena Ndlovu
Musician
Mokwena Phiri
Writer
Mokwena Selebalo
Entrepreneur
Mokwena Ramaphosa
Academic
Mokwena Tlou
Environmentalist
Mokwena Dube
Chef
The Crocodile Clan ()
Sons of the River ()
Legacy of the Clan ()
The Last Chief ()
Spirit of the Crocodile ()
Paths of Tradition ()
River of Kings ()
The Clan's Protector ()
Mokwena
๐Spanish
Mokwena
๐French
Mokwena
๐German
Mokwena
๐Italian
ใขใฏใฆใงใ
๐Japanese
่ซๅ ้ฆ็บณ
๐Chinese
ู ูููููุง
๐Arabic
Fun Fact About Mokwena
The crocodile, symbolized by the name Mokwena, is considered one of the oldest living reptiles, embodying endurance and ancient wisdom in African folklore.
Personality Traits for Mokwena
Individuals named Mokwena are often perceived as strong, dependable leaders with a natural authority. They tend to be courageous, protective of their loved ones, and deeply connected to their heritage. Their personality reflects resilience, wisdom, and an innate ability to guide others through challenges with calm confidence and integrity.
What does the name Mokwena mean?
Mokwena is a Sotho-Tswana name meaning โLion or leader of the clanโ. Mokwena is a name of Sotho-Tswana origin, derived from the word 'Kwena', meaning 'crocodile', a symbol of strength and leadership in Southern African cultures. The prefix 'Mo-' signifies 'person of' or 'belonging to', thus Mokwena means 'person of the crocodile clan' or 'leader of the clan', embodying bravery and authority historically respected in tribal societies.
How do you pronounce Mokwena?
Mokwena is pronounced (IPA: /moสหkwษ.nษห/). It has 2 syllables with the pattern N/A.
What are nicknames for Mokwena?
Popular nicknames for Mokwena include: Mok, Kwe, Moki, Wena, Kwen, Mow, Mokw, Kena, Moke, Mokie.
Who are famous people named Mokwena?
Famous people named Mokwena include: , , , , .
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Mokwena is a beautiful Sotho-Tswana name meaning โLion or leader of the clanโ. Mokwena is a name of Sotho-Tswana origin, derived from the word 'Kwena', meaning 'crocodile', a symbol of strength and leadership in Southern African cultures. The prefix 'Mo-' signifies 'person of' o...
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