Swahili Names

Traditional African name made cartoonish by the Disney character in The Lion King. In Shona it means "strength".

Lilting African name that translates perfectly into other cultures.

Passé pasha image.

A name with the kind of pan-cultural feel that's in vogue now... and forever. A French variant, Marjane, belongs to the author of the iconic graphic memoir Persepolis.

This name gained widespread attention via the actress Taraji P. Henson, who was nominated for an Academy Award as Best Supporting Actress for her role in The Curious Case of Benjamin Button. A variant is Taraja.

Panya is a multicultural possibility with a sound that's pleasing to the English-speaking ear, though the Swahili translation, which might also be "rat," makes it less than savory as an African name.

Offbeat name sometimes heard in the African-American community.

An appealing East African possibility.

This multi-cultural name has a pleasant, delicate sound. Variations include Amali and Amalya,both of which mean industrious.

Peppy cheerleader with African roots.

Frequently found in all three forms: Sadik, Sadiki, and Sadiq.

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

Authentic African name with unfortunate coffee association, also too close to the male Kofi.

A name appropriate for boys born during the hajj, the pilgrimage to Mecca every Muslim is expected to make once in his lifetime.

Related to the better-known Arabic name Noor.

A gorgeous Swahili name for girls that hits multiple trends — Mar- names like Margot and Marley, and names that end in I, like Leilani and Zuri.

Elegant African choice.

Its resonant rhythm and positive connotations have led to some popularity with African-American parents, though it tends to have a masculine feel, particularly considering the rise of a certain Barack.

This traditional Swahili folktale name could mark you as a Neil Sedaka fan.