African Origin

Many African American people are becoming more interested in their African roots and a desire to reject or replace white culture has led to many names from Africa being used. Black families in other countries, including Britain, are also following these trends.

Male

Ajani Yoruba 'victor'

Jelani Swahili, 'mighty'

Jumah Swahili 'born on Friday'

Olajuwon Yoruba 'wealth and honour are God's gifts'

Sadiq Swahili 'faithful'

Female

Adjanaya fem of Ajani

Alika Swahili 'most beautiful'

Akila Moroccan 'thoughtful'

Ashanti tribe from Western Africa

Dalila Swahili 'gentle'

Dashiki Swahili loose fitting shirt

Fulani Tribe 'our people'

Kanika Mwera 'black silk'

Kenya from the country name

Kenyatta after the politician

Nandi Zulu 'her father's child'

Shaka from Shaka Zulu

Takia 'pious'

Unisex

Many African names have neutral meanings that can be used for either sex but it is likely that many of those ending in '-a' or '-e' would have been given to female children in English speaking countries.

This collection of names was compiled by Kate Monk and is ©1997, Kate Monk.

Copies may be made for personal use only.