REVEALED: The top 10 baby girl names in South Africa for 2024
Here are the top 10 first names chosen for baby girls in SA in 2024, according to new data by Statistics South Africa.
Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) has unveiled the latest data on recorded live births for 2024, providing a fascinating glimpse into the most beloved choices for South Africa’s newest baby girls, led by Onalerona and the popular middle name, Precious.
The 2024 statistical release, supplied to Stats SA by the Department of Home Affairs, presents data on live births that occurred and were recorded up to 28 February 2025.
The latest release compiles a list of the top ten baby forenames (first names) and second forenames (middle names) for both sexes.
Overall, popular baby forenames reflect positive aspirations for the child, express beliefs, and are inspired by positive connotations of love and acceptance.
Which baby girl names were most popular?
In the 2024 recorded live births data, Onalerona secured the top spot as the most common first forename for baby girls. Notably, Lethabo was also popular, appearing as the fifth most popular name for females, despite being the most popular name for males.
Here are the top ten first forenames (first names) chosen for baby girls in South Africa in 2024, according to Stats SA:
- Onalerona (2 289 occurrences)
- Zanokuhle (2 223 occurrences)
- Melokuhle (2 108 occurrences)
- Lisakhanya (2 097 occurrences)
- Lethabo (1 934 occurrences)
- Nkanyezi (1 824 occurrences)
- Onthatile (1 765 occurrences)
- Lesedi (1 745 occurrences)
- Omphile (1 725 occurrences)
- Olwemihla (1 591 occurrences)
The names Lethabo, Nkanyezi, and Lesedi were featured in the top ten most popular baby names for both males and females in 2024.
What were the most common second forenames (middle names) for girls?
When it came to second forenames for baby girls in 2024, the choices often reflect hopeful and positive connotations.
The top three most popular choices for second forenames amongst females were Precious, Princess, and Blessing.
Below are the top ten second forenames recorded for baby girls in 2024:
- Precious (3 034 occurrences)
- Princess (2 655 occurrences)
- Blessing (2 452 occurrences)
- Angel (1 921 occurrences)
- Faith (1 820 occurrences)
- Hope (1 805 occurrences)
- Nkanyezi (1 358 occurrences)
- Zanokuhle (1 274 occurrences)
- Lisakhanya (1 243 occurrences)
- Grace (1 157 occurrences)