History: The surname Jaftha is of Dutch origin, derived from the given name Jaftha, which is a variant of Jephthah, a biblical name meaning “he opens” or “he will set free.” The name was introduced to South Africa by Dutch settlers and has since become common among Afrikaner communities. The name is prevalent in South Africa, reflecting the Dutch heritage of many early settlers. Notable individuals with this surname include:

  • Jan Jaftha: South African cricketer known for his contributions to the sport.