West African(ghana/Akan) names

Unisex Swahili name rising in popularity. Musician Jelani Aryeh may be an influence.

Coolly attractive African name, with distinguished representatives in sports and literature. Jabari has been on the rise recently, returning to the US Top 1000 in 2023.

Too close to "payola."

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 variant of the more-difficult Afua, from the Akan language of what is now Ghana in West Africa, is a traditional "day name" that can make a perfectly pretty modern choice.

This name from the Akan language of Ghana in West Africa is traditionally given to baby girls born on a Tuesday. The male version is Kwabena or Kobena.

Affectionate sounding name that could have birth-order meaning.

Najja is a feminine name with roots in multiple cultures. In Arabic contexts, it relates to words meaning 'salvation,' 'success,' or 'deliverance.' In some African traditions, particularly Swahili influence, it can mean 'safe' or 'secure.' This cross-cultural name remains relatively uncommon in Western countries but has seen occasional use in diverse communities. Najja's distinctive sound comes from its double 'j' consonant, giving it a rhythmic quality when pronounced. The name carries positive connotations of achievement, protection, and triumph over adversity. For parents seeking a meaningful yet uncommon name with international resonance, Najja offers depth of significance combined with a contemporary sound and multicultural appeal.