Africa is home to several ethnic groups and follow a number of different traditions and languages. This is clearly depicted in the unique African names for girls that are now becoming increasingly popular amongst most cultures. Female African names and meanings also reflect the roots of their traditions and cultures. If you are looking for unique baby girl names that are meaningful too, then you can choose an African name for her. Select a name that will become your baby’s unique identity and that describes the kind of person that you would want her to be.
African Naming Traditions
In Africa, the naming ceremony is conducted by the oldest member of the family and he/she may also assign a nickname to the child. In northern Africa, the main religion practiced is Islam whereas in southern and central Africa, Christianity is prominent. Therefore, the African names originating from these areas may have an influence of the religion practiced. Most African name’s meanings are based on the circumstances that surround the birth of a baby girl or what the parents wish for their daughter. They may also be based on the timing of the baby’s birth, day of the week, the weather or a virtue. The names are obtained from African languages like Zulu, Yoruba, Hausa, Shona and Swahili and are greatly influenced by Arabic names.
Unique Female African Names and Meanings
Here’s a list of some unique African names for girls and their meanings.
- Ada- first daughter
- Abebi- she was asked for
- Adeola- crown of honor
- Adowa- noble
- Adina- savior
- Aaliyah- exalted
- Abayomi- has come to bring joy
- Adanna- father’s daughter
- Afia- born on Friday
- Afya- symbolizing health
- Amara- one who has grace
- Amina- one who is truthful
- Addae- one who is as bright as the sun
- Adaeze- princess
- Aziza- one who is special
- Bamidele- follow me home
- Bisa- one who is loved
- Binah- dancer
- Binta- one with god
- Boipelo- proud
- Chika- god is the greatest or god is great
- Chioma- god is good
- Chipo- gift
- Chiddima- god is good
- Dayo- arrival of joy
- Ebele- kindness or a plea to god
- Eniola- my sorrow has turned into joy
- Enu- second child
- Eshe- life
- Farai- rejoice
- Faiza- victorious
- Femi- love me
- Fadhila- one who is outstanding
- Habika- sweetheart
- Hadiya- right guidance
- Hamnna- happiness
- Kamili- perfection or god’s perfect creation
- Kamaria- one who is like the moon
- Kirabo- god’s gift or gift from god
- Keisha- cassia tree
- Imani- faith
- Ime- one who has patience
- Iverem- blessings
- Latifa- one who has a gentle nature
- Lisha- mysterious
- Mirembe- peace
- Monifa- one who has luck
- Mudiwa- beloved
- Mhina- one who is delightful
- Naima- one who is graceful
- Naila- succeeding
- Nia- purpose
- Pulika- obedience
- Ramla- one who can predict the future
- Safi- one who is pure
- Saida- one who is happy
- Samanya- one who is unknown
- Shukuma- one who is grateful
- Ssanyu- pleasure or gladness
- Rafiya- one who is dignified
- Rabia- spring
- Ridhaa- goodwill
- Tawia- born after twins
- Tisha- ne who is strong willed
- Uzuri- beauty
- Yakini- truth
- Zena- fame
- Zuri- beautiful
Read more on:
- Names, How they Affect Personality
- African Names and their Meanings
- African Baby Names
Hope the African names for girls mentioned above helps you choose a suitable name for your daughter, one that she would love and will be proud of!
