African Names

A relatively common French surname associated with sometimes scandalous French novelist/dramatist Jean Genet. The name may derive from genêt, the French name for the broom shrub. Alternatively, it can derive from the French forms of Eugene, John or Janet as an ancestral surname.

Djimon has become a familiar African name via powerful Benin-born, Oscar-nominated actor Djimon Hounsou.

The Akan people of Ghana and the Ivory Coast frequently name their children after the day of the week they were born and the order in which they were born. Most Ghanaians have a name using this system (think Kofi Annan, whose name means born on a Friday).

Has a feminine feline feel.

Unlikely to take over Kenya's spot as the dominant African place-name.

If you're looking for an African place-name, this one belongs to the main town in eastern Morocco.

Although the best-known Kehinde is the male painter Kehinde Wiley, this name is used for both genders in its native Nigeria and can be just as attractive for a girl.

The Akan people of Ghana and the Ivory Coast frequently name their children after the day of the week they were born and the order in which they were born. Most Ghanaians have a name using this system (think Kofi Annan, whose name means born on a Friday).

This name of the capital of an ancient Egyptian dynasty makes Lois X-rated.

Nigerian-born supermodel Oluchi Orlandi brought this little-known (to non-Nigerians), lovely choice into the lexicon.

The raja sequence of sounds gives it a regal feel.

The name of a great seventeenth century African warrior queen, known for her brilliance as an administrator and organizer, and unstinting commitment to peace.

Nigerian name with an honorable meaning.

The three soft a's make for a calm and rhythmic name, though some risk of salami jokes.