🗣️ Introduction The Xhosa language, spoken by millions across South Africa, is rich in metaphor and cultural wisdom. One of […]
Introduction The Xhosa tribe is one of the most prominent cultural groups in South Africa, known for its rich heritage, […]
Iziduko Clan Names
🔹 List of Xhosa Clan Names (Iziduko)
| Clan Name | Praise Name (Isiduko/Izithakazelo) | Meaning / Notable Ancestors |
|---|---|---|
| AmaDlomo | Dlomo, Madiba, Jongilanga | Ancestors of Nelson Mandela (Madiba). Known for leadership. |
| AmaTshawe | Tshawe, Zanzolo, Khala, Gcaleka | Royal house of the Xhosa nation. Gcaleka and Rharhabe are descendants. |
| AmaGcaleka | Gcaleka, Khawuta, Hintsa | Senior house of the Xhosa Kingdom. Descendants of Tshawe. |
| AmaRharhabe | Rharhabe, Mlawu, Ndlambe | Junior house, founded by Prince Rharhabe (son of Phalo). |
| AmaMpondo | Mpondo, Njanya, Nyawuza | Eastern Xhosa group; linked with Kingdom of Mpondoland. |
| AmaMpondomise | Mpondomise, Njanya, Sibiside | Related to Mpondo, but distinct; part of the Thembu lineage. |
| AmaThembu | Thembu, Hala, Dlomo, Madiba | Royal clan of the Thembu nation. Includes Mandela’s lineage. |
| AmaXesibe | Xesibe, Mdamba, Jola | Close to Mpondo and Thembu clans, mostly in Eastern Cape. |
| AmaBomvana | Bomvana, Ntshikila, Vundla | Sub-clan of Mpondomise, known for red ochre traditional dress. |
| AmaBhaca | Bhaca, Ncapayi, Madzikane | A tribe of mixed Nguni origin, mostly in KwaZulu-Natal & Eastern Cape. |
| AmaHlubi | Hlubi, Ndaba, Hadebe | Originally from KwaZulu-Natal, later integrated into Xhosa society. |
| AmaQwathi | Qwathi, Ngwane, Mfengu | Known as skilled warriors and herders. |
| AmaMfengu | Mfengu, Mhlontlo, Jojo | Originally refugees from Mfecane wars, adopted Xhosa customs. |
| AmaNtinde | Ntinde, Mankayi, Zangwa | Smaller clan often found among the Mpondo. |
| AmaNgqika | Ngqika, Sandile, Mlawu | Ruling line of Rharhabe; key historical leaders like Chief Maqoma. |
| AmaTolo | Tolo, Khonjwayo, Nondzaba | Found mainly in Eastern Cape. |
| AmaGqunukwebe | Gqunukwebe, Ntsusa, Hlambamanzi | A mix of Khoisan and Xhosa ancestry. |
| AmaVundle | Vundle, Nxasana, Bhele | Found in several Xhosa-speaking communities. |
| AmaNdlambe | Ndlambe, Mlawu, Nqgika | Descended from the royal Rharhabe house. |
| AmaJwarha | Jwarha, Malangana, Zwelakhe | Small clan, often linked to Ngqika line. |
🔸 Key Notes:
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Clan names (Iziduko) are more important than surnames in Xhosa culture.
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People with the same clan name are considered relatives, even if unrelated by blood.
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When Xhosa people meet, they often ask “Ungowaluphi usapho?” (Which clan are you from?)
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Clan praises (Izithakazelo) are often recited during greetings or ceremonies.