Bukiwe Mkhize
A renowned Xhosa community leader who advocated for women's rights during the apartheid era in South Africa.
IPA Pronunciation
/buˈkiwe/
Say It Like
Syllables
Bukiwe is a Xhosa name from Southern Africa meaning 'one who is given' or 'gifted'. It derives from the root word 'ukubonga' meaning to give thanks or gratitude. Traditionally, it signifies a child given as a blessing or gift, reflecting deep cultural appreciation and spiritual significance in Xhosa-speaking communities.
Cultural Significance of Bukiwe
In Xhosa culture, names like Bukiwe carry deep meaning, often reflecting gratitude and the spiritual gift of a child. It is common to name children with words that express thankfulness or blessings, reinforcing family and community bonds. Bukiwe encapsulates this tradition, often bestowed to honor the arrival of a much-anticipated daughter, symbolizing hope and cherished presence in the family lineage.
Bukiwe Name Popularity in 2025
Today, Bukiwe remains a popular name within Xhosa-speaking populations and broader South African communities. It resonates with parents seeking meaningful, culturally rich names that honor heritage. While not widely known globally, it is gaining recognition through social media and diaspora communities, symbolizing cultural pride and the celebration of African identity in contemporary naming trends.
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International Variations10
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More Girl Names Starting With B10
Name Energy & Essence
The name Bukiwe carries the essence of “One who is given or gifted” from Xhosa tradition. Names beginning with "B" often embody qualities of stability, nurturing, and groundedness.
Symbolism
Cultural Significance
In Xhosa culture, names like Bukiwe carry deep meaning, often reflecting gratitude and the spiritual gift of a child. It is common to name children with words that express thankfulness or blessings, reinforcing family and community bonds. Bukiwe encapsulates this tradition, often bestowed to honor the arrival of a much-anticipated daughter, symbolizing hope and cherished presence in the family lineage.
Bukiwe Ndlovu
An influential educator and activist who contributed to the preservation of Xhosa language and culture in the mid-1900s.
Bukiwe Zulu
A respected traditional healer known for her knowledge of indigenous medicines and cultural rituals in the Eastern Cape region.
Bukiwe Dlamini
A political figure who played a key role in community development projects in rural South Africa.
Bukiwe Tshabalala
A celebrated poet and storyteller preserving Xhosa oral traditions through literature.
Bukiwe Khumalo
A pioneering female entrepreneur who promoted indigenous crafts and trade in South Africa.
Bukiwe Maseko
A cultural historian specializing in the study of Xhosa naming customs and heritage.
Bukiwe Langa
An artist known for integrating traditional Xhosa symbolism in contemporary visual arts.
Bukiwe Faku
Journalist
Bukiwe Ndlela
Musician
Bukiwe Moyo
Author
Bukiwe Mahlangu
Activist
Bukiwe Hlatshwayo
Visual Artist
Bukiwe Sibiya
Academic
Bukiwe Nkosi
Entrepreneur
Bukiwe Zondi
Filmmaker
Ubuntu Spirit ()
The Gifted Child ()
Echoes of Home ()
Xhosa Roots ()
Blessed Arrival ()
Voices of the Eastern Cape ()
Paths of Grace ()
The Gift of Life ()
Bendecida
🌐Spanish
Donnée
🌐French
Geschenkt
🌐German
Donata
🌐Italian
贈り物 (Okurimono)
🌐Japanese
赠予 (Zèngyǔ)
🌐Chinese
معطاة (Mu‘ṭāh)
🌐Arabic
Fun Fact About Bukiwe
The name Bukiwe is traditionally given to girls born after times of hardship or difficulty, symbolizing that they are a precious gift or blessing after struggle.
Personality Traits for Bukiwe
Those named Bukiwe are often seen as warm, nurturing, and deeply compassionate. They tend to embody gratitude and kindness, showing strong family values and a generous spirit. Their nature is often reflective and wise beyond their years, with a calm demeanor that brings peace and harmony to those around them.
What does the name Bukiwe mean?
Bukiwe is a Xhosa name meaning “One who is given or gifted”. Bukiwe is a Xhosa name from Southern Africa meaning 'one who is given' or 'gifted'. It derives from the root word 'ukubonga' meaning to give thanks or gratitude. Traditionally, it signifies a child given as a blessing or gift, reflecting deep cultural appreciation and spiritual significance in Xhosa-speaking communities.
How do you pronounce Bukiwe?
Bukiwe is pronounced (IPA: /buˈkiwe/). It has 2 syllables with the pattern N/A.
What are nicknames for Bukiwe?
Popular nicknames for Bukiwe include: Buki, Kiki, Buks, Bubu, Buka, Kwe, Bukie, Wewi, Bikie, Boo.
Who are famous people named Bukiwe?
Famous people named Bukiwe include: , , , , .
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Bukiwe is a beautiful Xhosa name meaning “One who is given or gifted”. Bukiwe is a Xhosa name from Southern Africa meaning 'one who is given' or 'gifted'. It derives from the root word 'ukubonga' meaning to give thanks or gratitude. Traditionally, it signifies a child gi...
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