By Pamela Redmond · Updated September 2026
Across 9 pages
of 9
Amharic
"raining"
Zenebe is an appealing name well-used in Ethiopia but rarely heard outside its native land. But it translates easily into English and Zen makes for a cool and attractive nickname. A winning choice…
Yoruba
"second-born of twins or one who falls behind"
This African name, which derives from the Yoruba tribe of Nigeria, is used for both girls and boys -- but in the US, its most notable bearer is (male) artist Kehinde Wiley. Wiley, who paints brown-…
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.
African, Matamba
The name of a great seventeenth century African warrior queen, known for her brilliance as an administrator and organizer, and unstinting commitment to peace.
Twi
"Born on a Tuesday"
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…
"Born on a Wednesday"
"Born on a Thursday"
Akan
"born on Friday"
"crown"
Northern African, French, Arabic
"the lord is salvation"
Also appearing Aïssa, this name is largely used in French-influenced countries, including Algeria, Morocco, Belgium, and France itself. It derives from the Arabic Isa, the name by which Jesus is…
Yao, Malawian
"she weeps"
Ashanti, Akan, Twi
"African ethnic group; warlike"
Although Ashanti is a much better known name via the female hip-hop singer, Asante is also an appealing way to honor Asante or Ashanti heritage. It's the name of a people and language based in Ghana.
"warrior; one who fights for her people"
Yaa Asantewaa was a Queen mother in the Ashanti Empire (now part of Ghana) who led the Ahsanti war against the British Empire and colonialism in 1900. The name is therefore predominantly used in…
Somali
"escape"
Derived from the Somali baxsasho meaning "escape, elude", this name was notably borne by singer and stage actress Seynab Haji Ali Siigaale, a one of Somali's most popular performers in the 20th…
