Botswana, known for its rich cultural heritage, has a diverse array of names that carry deep meanings and reflect its traditions, values, and languages. Many names are inspired by the Setswana language and highlight themes such as love, family, nature, and spirituality. Here is a curated list of 100 popular Botswana names, along with their meanings where available:
Boys’ Names
1. Abelo – Humble
2. Amogelang – Receive
3. Bakang – Praise
4. Bame – My People
5. Banele – They are enough
6. Barulaganyi – The arranger
7. Boago – The builder
8. Botshelo – Life
9. Dibapelo – Comforter
10. Ditiro – Actions
11. Gape – Again
12. Gauta – Gold
13. Itumeleng – Happiness
14. Kabelo – A gift
15. Keabetswe – I have been given
16. Kealeboga – I am thankful
17. Keamogetse – I have received
18. Kgalalelo – Glory
19. Kgomotso – Comfort
20. Kopano – Unity
21. Kutlwano – Agreement
22. Lefika – Rock
23. Lesego – Blessings
24. Mogale – Hero
25. Mompati – Companion
26. Monnapula – Rain man
27. Moopelo – Life
28. Morapedi – The one who prays
29. Motheo – Foundation
30. Mpho – Gift
31. Ofentse – He has conquered
32. Omphile – He has given me
33. Omphemetse – He has protected me
34. Onkabetse – He has entrusted me
35. Phenyo – Victory
36. Ratanang – Loving one another
37. Reabetswe – We are given
38. Reaipela – We are grateful
39. Resego – Luck
40. Seneo – A gift
41. Tebogo – Gratitude
42. Thapelo – Prayer
43. Thoriso – Praise
44. Tshegofatso – Blessing
45. Tshiamo – Goodness
46. Tumisang – Praise him
47. Tumo – Fame
48. Yarona – It is ours
49. Zenzele – Do it yourself
50. Zwelakhe – His land
Girls’ Names
51. Amantle – Beautiful
52. Atang – Build
53. Boitumelo – Joy
54. Dimpho – Gifts
55. Dineo – Gifts
56. Gaseangwe – Not to be shared
57. Gaone – It is His (God’s)
58. Gofaone – It is given by Him
59. Itireleng – Do it for yourself
60. Kamogelo – Acceptance
61. Katlego – Success
62. Keitumetse – I am happy
63. Kutlo – Hearing
64. Larona – Ours
65. Lesedi – Light
66. Leshole – Treasure
67. Lethabo – Happiness
68. Lorato – Love
69. Lwazi – Knowledge
70. Matshidiso – Comfort
71. Masego – Blessings
72. Modiegi – One who comforts
73. Moletwa – The chosen one
74. Monnye – The young one
75. Naledi – Star
76. Nonofo – Strength
77. Oarabile – He has answered
78. Omphile – She has given me
79. Onthatile – He has loved me
80. Oratile – She has loved
81. Paballo – Protection
82. Palesa – Flower
83. Pula – Rain
84. Refilwe – We have been given
85. Reitumetse – We are thankful
86. Rorisang – Praise Him
87. Sekai – Example
88. Sedi – Light
89. Sefalana – Fruit
90. Segomotso – Comfort
91. Semakaleng – Surprising
92. Serame – Coolness
93. Thato – Will or Desire
94. Tholang – Seek
95. Tlotlo – Respect
96. Tshegofatso – Blessing
97. Tsholofelo – Hope
98. Tumisang – Praise
99. Tumiso – Fame
100. Warona – It is ours
These names not only reflect Botswana’s linguistic and cultural richness but also embody aspirations, values, and a deep connection to spirituality and community. Whether you are naming a baby or exploring Botswana’s cultural heritage, these names offer a meaningful glimpse into the heart of the nation.