Meaning & Origin
Mthethwa is a Nguni surname found primarily among the Zulu people of South Africa. The name means “the law” or “one who enforces rules” in isiZulu.

History & Notable People
The Mthethwa surname is historically linked to the Mthethwa Kingdom, one of the most powerful chiefdoms in precolonial KwaZulu-Natal. Under King Dingiswayo, the Mthethwa played a significant role in shaping the Zulu Kingdom’s rise. The surname is associated with leadership, governance, and military strength. Today, the Mthethwa name continues to hold cultural and historical significance in South Africa.