African Names for Girls

  1. Kissa
    • Origin:

      African-Ugandan
    • Meaning:

      "born after twins"
    • Description:

      Affectionate sounding name that could have birth-order meaning.
  2. Zagora
    • Origin:

      North African place-name; also Swahili
    • Description:

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

      African, Swahili
    • Meaning:

      "second born"
    • Description:

      Might frequently be understood as "pilly." Can also be a short form of Pilar -- though the long form is better.
  4. Falala
    • Origin:

      African, Fula
    • Meaning:

      "born in abundance"
    • Description:

      A wonderful meaning for a bright and musical West African name.
  5. Kehinde
    • Origin:

      Yoruba
    • Meaning:

      "second-born of twins or one who falls behind"
    • Description:

      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.
  6. Taraja
    • Origin:

      African, Kiswahili
    • Meaning:

      "hope"
    • Description:

      The raja sequence of sounds gives it a regal feel.
  7. Tamala
    • Origin:

      African
    • Meaning:

      "dark tree"
    • Description:

      Would you really want to name your child after a Japanese anime movie called Tamala 2010: A Punk Cat in Space.
  8. Salama
    • Origin:

      African, Swahili
    • Meaning:

      "peace, safety, security"
    • Description:

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

      Kiswahili
    • Meaning:

      "blessings"
    • Description:

      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.
  10. Jinja
    • Origin:

      African place-name
    • Description:

      Gingery.

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