Mbongeni is a given name, derived from the Nguni word ukubonga, meaning "to praise". Notable people with the name include:

Mbongeni Buthelezi (born 1966), South African artist Mbongeni Khumalo, South African poet Mbongeni Mzimela, South African footballer Mbongeni Ngema, South African writer Phesheya Mbongeni Dlamini, politician