Chief Mokoena Moshoeshoe I
A prominent 19th-century Basotho chief who played a key role in uniting the Basotho people and establishing the Kingdom of Lesotho.
IPA Pronunciation
moˈkwɛːna
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Syllables
Mokoena is a Southern African surname and given name derived from the Sesotho language, meaning 'descendant of Koena.' 'Koena' translates to 'crocodile,' symbolizing strength, resilience, and nobility in many Southern African cultures. Historically, the name denotes lineage from a prominent clan known for bravery and leadership within the Basotho and Sotho-Tswana peoples.
Cultural Significance of Mokoena
The name Mokoena holds deep cultural significance among the Basotho and Sotho-Tswana peoples of Southern Africa. It identifies individuals as members of a respected clan tracing ancestry to the crocodile ('Koena'), a revered animal symbolizing power and protection. This name is often linked to leadership, bravery, and a rich oral history within these communities, serving as a symbol of identity and pride.
Mokoena Name Popularity in 2025
Today, Mokoena is increasingly used as both a first and last name across Southern Africa and within the diaspora. It bridges traditional heritage and contemporary identity, often chosen by parents wishing to honor their roots. Though less common globally, it is gaining recognition for its unique sound and powerful meaning, making it a popular unisex choice in multicultural settings.
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International Variations10
MokhenaMokonaMokenaMoqenaMuqenaMokhienaMokhinaMukenaMokoinaMokhoena
Name Energy & Essence
The name Mokoena carries the essence of “Descendant of the brave and noble” from Sesotho (Southern African) tradition. Names beginning with "M" often embody qualities of wisdom, intuition, and emotional depth.
Symbolism
Cultural Significance
The name Mokoena holds deep cultural significance among the Basotho and Sotho-Tswana peoples of Southern Africa. It identifies individuals as members of a respected clan tracing ancestry to the crocodile ('Koena'), a revered animal symbolizing power and protection. This name is often linked to leadership, bravery, and a rich oral history within these communities, serving as a symbol of identity and pride.
Kgosi Mokoena
A respected leader of the Sotho-Tswana people during the 18th century, known for his diplomatic skills and clan leadership.
Mokoena Maphutha
A 19th-century Sotho warrior remembered for his valor and commitment to defending his community from colonial incursions.
Mokoena Sekhonyana
An influential figure in Basotho oral traditions, known for preserving clan histories through storytelling.
Mokoena Tlou
A tribal elder and historian who documented the lineage and migration of the Mokoena clan.
Mokoena Phiri
A 20th-century cultural leader advocating for the recognition of Sotho heritage in modern South Africa.
Mokoena Matsie
A traditional healer and spiritual leader from the Basotho community, renowned for his wisdom.
Mokoena Motloung
A historical figure known for his resistance against colonial land dispossession during the early 20th century.
Tshepo Mokoena
Actor
Mokoena Radebe
Musician
Nomvula Mokoena
Politician
Lerato Mokoena
Author
Mokoena Dlamini
Visual Artist
Kabelo Mokoena
Entrepreneur
Palesa Mokoena
Journalist
Mokoena Thabane
Chef
The Kingdom of Lesotho ()
Rhythm City ()
Scandal! ()
African Legends ()
Basotho Stories ()
The Crocodile Clan ()
Voices of the Sotho ()
Legacy of the Basotho ()
Parents: Lerato Thabethe and Sipho Mokoena
Mokoena
🌐Spanish
Mokoena
🌐French
Mokoena
🌐German
Mokoena
🌐Italian
モコエナ
🌐Japanese
莫科埃纳
🌐Chinese
موكوينا
🌐Arabic
Fun Fact About Mokoena
The name Mokoena literally means 'descendant of the crocodile,' an animal that features prominently in Southern African folklore as a guardian of waters and symbol of strength.
Personality Traits for Mokoena
Individuals named Mokoena are often perceived as strong-willed, resilient, and natural leaders. They are thought to embody bravery and a protective nature, balanced with loyalty and a deep sense of cultural pride. Their personality tends to be warm and grounded, with an intuitive understanding of community and heritage.
What does the name Mokoena mean?
Mokoena is a Sesotho (Southern African) name meaning “Descendant of the brave and noble”. Mokoena is a Southern African surname and given name derived from the Sesotho language, meaning 'descendant of Koena.' 'Koena' translates to 'crocodile,' symbolizing strength, resilience, and nobility in many Southern African cultures. Historically, the name denotes lineage from a prominent clan known for bravery and leadership within the Basotho and Sotho-Tswana peoples.
How do you pronounce Mokoena?
Mokoena is pronounced (IPA: moˈkwɛːna). It has 2 syllables with the pattern N/A.
What are nicknames for Mokoena?
Popular nicknames for Mokoena include: Moko, Koena, Mo, Kena, Moks, Mokey, Mokko, Oena, Mokz, Kenny.
Who are famous people named Mokoena?
Famous people named Mokoena include: , , , , .
Which celebrities named their baby Mokoena?
Celebrity babies named Mokoena include children of: Lerato Thabethe and Sipho Mokoena.
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Mokoena is a beautiful Sesotho (Southern African) name meaning “Descendant of the brave and noble”. Mokoena is a Southern African surname and given name derived from the Sesotho language, meaning 'descendant of Koena.' 'Koena' translates to 'crocodile,' symbolizing strength, resilience, and nobility...
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