African Girl Names

One African name that's virtually unknown in the western world, but sounds both soft and strong.

Traditionally given to girls who were thought to be reincarnations of their paternal grandmother.

Even if you're not planning on having five kids, Enu makes a cute name for a son or daughter.

Subtly royal, if Reign and Royalty aren't your style.

Gasira is a journeyed name with an ancient history. It started as the Arabic word gezira (also commonly transliterated as jazira and jazeera), meaning "island," and sometimes "peninsula."

A stunning and unique West African name for a daughter.

The raja sequence of sounds gives it a regal feel.

More original than any made-up name.

This is a Muslim female name particularly popular in Somalia and North Africa.

Kuchena is an African name rarely used in English-speaking countries. Kuchenga Shenjé is an Afro-British journalist and author of The Library Thief.

Used as both a surname and a given name in Ghana, Serwaa is of Akan origin, likely referring to a woman who is noble, righteous and outstanding.

Used as both a surname and a given name in Ghana, Serwa, also spelled Serwaa, is of Akan origin, likely referring to a woman who is noble, righteous and outstanding.

A distinctive yet gentle looking name, Coumba is predominantly used in Senegal. While the exact origins of the name are uncertain, one possible theory is that it borrows from the Latin Columba (or French Colombe) meaning "dove", while another source suggests it is a Fulani name, related to strength.

Used predominantly in Kenya but also by Kenyan families around the world, Wagaki is a given name and a surname of Kikuyu origin. It could be a geographical name, with the prefix Wa- meaning "of" and Gaki referring to a traditional region of Kenya, now referred to as Nyeri. Olympic marathon runner, Mary Wagaki is a notable bearer.