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South African Clan Names & Praises (Izithakazelo & Iziduko)

Clan praises are recited to honour a family’s ancestors and identity — izithakazelo in Zulu and Ndebele, iziduko in Xhosa, tibongo in siSwati. Find your clan’s praises, their meaning and the surnames that share them.

Clan praises are sacred and vary between families; we publish only well-documented praises and welcome corrections. If your family’s version differs, both may be valid.

Zulu Clan Names

16 clans — izithakazelo (isiZulu)

Xhosa Clan Names

7 clans — iziduko (isiXhosa)

Ndebele Clan Names

3 clans — izithakazelo (isiNdebele)

Swati Clan Names

5 clans — tibongo (siSwati)