International Baby Names · Boy Names Lists
By Sophie Kihm · Updated September 2026
Across 6 pages
of 6
Swahili
"prepared, ready"
The sharp yet lively Tayari is a name of Swahili origin, notably used in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, and Tanzania. It is adapted from the word for "ready, prepared", making this an…
Oromo
"healer"
Alternatively spelled as Fayyisaa or Feissa, this name comes from the Oromo word for "healer." It is used predominantly in Ethiopia, and is borne by long-distance runner, Feyisa Lilesa.
"ocean, sea"
A unisex name of Swahili origin, this spirited and sunny sounding choice means "sea, ocean". In this case, it is ultimately derived from the Arabic baḥriyy meaning "maritime" or "of the sea", which…
"forever, eternity"
Sparky and poetic, Milele is of East African origin and is used occasionally as a unisex name in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Papua New Guinea, Uganda, and Tanzania. It is derived from the…
Igbo
"child dedicated to the Gods"
With its highly spiritual meaning, Nwosu is a popular choice among Nigerian parents, though it also appears as a surname. Notable bearers include footballers Nathaniel Nwosu, Nwankwo Christian Nwosu…
African, Ibo
"I have joined the family"
Rhythmic, strong, and buoyant.
Rwandan
"friend"
Actor Ncuti Gatwa brought this Rwandan name into the spotlight following his appearance n the show Sex Education and then again when he starred as the Fifteenth Doctor in Dr Who . Derived from the…
Yoruba
"the crown meets joy"
"the hand of God"
A name of Igbo origin with a spiritual meaning, Akachi is unisex though it is used slightly more often on boys in Nigeria.
Ugandan
"I have brought forth"
Energetic but mellow.
Hebrew or Yoruba
"scarlet red or wealth"
The Biblical Tola was a long-ruling judge of Israel renowned for his wisdom and fairness, definitely a positive association.
"joy"
This charming West African mini name fits in with the other similarly short names that are all the rage right now. Actress Ayo Edebiri is the star of TV's The Bear .
African, Yoruban
Rhythmic and unusual.
"precious treasure"
Two z's equal double pizzazz.
African, Nigerian, Yoruba
Short form of Adebayo
Amharic
"growing"
Bekele is an attractive Ethiopian name prime for use in the English-speaking world, especially given the short form Bek. Pronunciation is three syllables with the emphasis on the second --…
"God is strength"
In Nigeria, Chibuike is seen as a surname as well as a given name for both girls and boys. John Chibuike is a notable Nigerian footballer.
"God exists"
A very common boys' name (and nickname) in Nigeria that some Americans will recognize as the name of one of the main characters on NBC's The Good Place .
"God knows"
Common in Nigeria, Chima is used as both a full name and a nickname for names beginning with Chima-.
Place-name
"gather"
Not long ago, the name of this central African republic was firmly in place-name territory and not seen as baby appropriate. But those boundaries are moving so quickly that all kinds of place-names…
