120 Swahili Boy & Girl Names with Meanings

If you are a new parent whose ultimate goal is to select a thought-provoking or unique Swahili name for your baby, then here is a compilation of the most beautiful Swahili Boy & Girl Names just for you. After all, the name you choose for your baby creates a lifelong impact. Swahili names carry a rich history and pure essence of the ethnicity of East African roots. Whether you are in search of a trendy name or the most exquisite one anyone has ever laid eyes on, our selection of Swahili male names and Swahili female names will do right by you. So, do not be overwhelmed by the suggestions you get from the people around you while choosing a name. What matters ultimately is a name that you feel connected to for your baby.

Popular Swahili Boy Names

Selecting a name doesn’t have to be a stressful experience from the list of the best Swahili boy names. Here are your choices:

1. Azizi

Azizi is a boy’s name of Swahili origin. Your baby boy is your precious jewel, so why not name him Azizi, which refers to ‘precious?’

2. Ahmed

Ahmed happens to be one of the names of Prophet Mohammed and is a very famous Swahili name for boys.

3. Abdalla

Abdalla is a modern name with a unique pronunciation. Abdalla means ‘servant of God’.

4. Azaan

Emerging as a strong individual is the best thing for your child. This is why  Azaan is an ideal name for boys.

5. Bahati

Bringing up children by emphasising them to be noble is great. So how about a name like Bahati, which means ‘noble’ for your prince?

6. Baraka

Another interesting Swahili name from B is Baraka. This is a name with an Arabic root, and it refers to ‘blessings’.

7. Daudi

Your baby boy is the most loved one for you. Daudi is a beautiful name meaning ‘beloved’.

8. Faraji

A very common and loved Swahili name is Faraji. This is a boy’s name meaning ‘consolation’.

9. Hamidi

Hamidi is a masculine name with Arabic roots. The name Hamidi means ‘thankful or commendable’.

10. Hasani

Your adorable baby boy deserves a name like Hasani, which means ‘handsome’. Hasani is widely used by Africans, Swahilis, and Arabic.

11. Jirani

Jirani is a rare but lovely name meaning ‘neighbour’. Among unique Swahili Boy Names, it stands out as a warm and meaningful choice that reflects connection and community.

12. Kabili

Kabili means “brave” and “honest” in Swahili, making it a powerful choice for parents seeking meaningful names. Such Swahili Boy Names carry deep values and inspire strength and integrity in a child’s character.

13. Kanai

Kanai is a name that is commonly used in African countries and is known as ‘contentment’.

14. Kenyada

This is a beautiful Swahili name that means “gemstone,” representing rarity and preciousness. Such Swahili Boy Names with meaningful origins add depth and uniqueness to your child’s identity.

15. Nafasi

This beautiful Swahili name means “lover of good times”. It is one of those unique Swahili Boy Names that perfectly reflects joy, positivity, and a cheerful spirit

16. Penda

Penda is a Swahili name that means “to love” or “love deeply”, symbolizing affection, warmth, and a caring nature.

17. Radhi

Radhi is an interesting Swahili name for your adorable munchkin. The name Radhi means ‘forgiveness’.

18. Sadiki

A cool yet unique Swahili name is Sadiki. Teaching your son to be true to himself is one of the best lessons for life. Sadiki means ‘faithful or loyal’.

19. Salimu

Salimu is a Swahili boy name meaning “to greet” and symbolizes friendliness and a warm, welcoming nature.

20. Sefu

This name means ‘sword’ and is derived from the Arabic word for the sword ‘sayf’.

21. Tabari

Tabari is a Swahili boy name that means “one who is knowledgeable or wise”, reflecting intelligence and insight.

22. Tumaini

Being hopeful about a positive life is a must and hence why not name your baby boy Tumaini which is a name with Swahili origin and it means ‘hope’.

23. Yahya

Yahya is a Swahili boy name that means “God is gracious” or “alive”, symbolizing blessings, life, and divine favor

24. Zahur

Names starting with the letter Z are rare; Zahur is one such unique name for your baby. Zahur is derived from Arabic, which means ‘blossom’.

25. Zahoor

Zahoor is a variation of the name Zahur. It means ‘to blossom’. Zahoor is an adorable Swahili name.

Cool Swahili Names for Boys

Who says a name has to be all serious and sophisticated? These Swahili names will certainly make you see the other side—the cool side—of Swahili names. Let’s check them out, shall we?

1. Adili

Teaching your son to be fair is a good thing for life. Adili is a wonderful name which means ‘just’.

2. Akida

A Swahili boy name meaning “faithful” or “loyal”, reflecting strong character and trustworthiness.

3. Asani

4. Ayubu

Being patient is a quality every child should inherit and develop as a human being. Ayubu is a name of African origin, and it refers to ‘patience and perseverance’.

5. Bakari

If you are a parent who wishes your baby all the best, then Bakari might be a name you would want to consider. Bakari is a wonderful name with African roots. It means one who will succeed.

6. Balozi

If you are looking for a unique name with a wonderful meaning, then the name Balozi is the right choice. The name Balozi is of Swahili origin, and it means ‘ambassador’.

7. Chacha

8. Damu

Damu is a name that has become popular with Africans in recent years. Damu means blood.

9. Haki

Haki is a sweet name from ‘H’ and is of Swahili origin. The name Haki means ‘truth’ and reminds your son to be truthful all his life.

10. Hami

Hami is a Swahili name for boys that means “defender” or “protector”, symbolizing a child who is strong and caring towards others.

11. Jabali

Jabali is a Swahili name for boys that means “rock” or “strong like a rock”, symbolizing strength, stability, and resilience.

12. Jel

Jel is a Swahili name for boys that means “bright” or “shining”, symbolizing a child who brings light and positivity to those around him.

13. Jelani

Let your son emerge to be strong and powerful to rule the world with a name like Jelani which means ‘great and powerful’.

14. Kenyatta

Kenyatta is a Swahili name for boys that means “musician” or “leader”, symbolizing a child with creativity, influence, and strong leadership qualities.

15. Kito

Kito is a Swahili boy name meaning “precious gem” or “treasure,” symbolizing something valuable and cherished.

16. Rafiki

Rafiki is a beautiful name with an Arabic origin. A friend is a companion for life, and hence, naming your boy with a name like Rafiki is a great option as it means ‘friend’.

17. Sadeeki

The name Sadeeki is a beautiful variation of the Swahili name Sadiki. Let your son learn to be loyal and truthful with a name like this, which means ‘faithful’.

18. Sahel

The Sahel is an interesting name starting with the letter S. Sahel is a wonderful variation of the common name Sahil from Hindi. Let your son lead from the front with a name like this, which means ‘leader’.

19. Simba

A fun and loving name for your munchkin is Simba. Simba means lion and is of Swahili origin. The name Simba is very popular because of the famous Disney character in ‘The Lion King’ series.

20. Taha

Looking for the best names for your baby? Go for Taha, as it literally means ‘best’!

21. Yazeed

You would certainly want your little one to get better every day. So, check out the name Yazeed, which is a variation of the name Yazid, which means ‘to become greater’.

22. Yazid

One of the most loved names of Swahili origin is Yazid. This name also has Arabic roots and refers to ‘becoming greater’.

23. Zahour

Another interesting name from ‘Z’ is Zahour. Zahour has its roots in Africa. Zahour means ‘blossom’.

24. Zuberi

If you are planning to raise a strong and confident little boy, then Zuberi is one of the most perfect choices among Swahili baby names out there.

25. Zubery

An interesting Swahili name with Arabic origin is Zubery. It means ‘powerful’.

Popular Swahili Girl Names

Take a look at the best Swahili girl names with their meanings below:

1. Amani

Amani is a rare name with a Kiswahili origin. It is a nice name for your princess, and it means ‘peace’.

2. Akina

If you are someone looking for a name that makes your bond stronger with your baby, then Akina might be a great choice, as it means ‘solidarity’.

3. Bahiya

For the pretty princess of your house, Bahiya is an apt name as it means beautiful and has Arabic roots.

4. Chiku

Chiku means ‘chatty’ or ‘talkative’ and is perfect for your bubbly little baby.

5. Dalila

We know your baby is to be handled gently, so check out the name Dalila. Dalila is a wonderful name with a Tanzanian origin meaning ‘delicate’.

6. Hasina

Hasina is an excellent Swahili name from the letter H. Your little princess deserves a name like Hasina, which means ‘good or beautiful’.

7. Imani

8. Jaha

Jaha is a Swahili girl name meaning “courage” or “bravery.” It represents a strong and fearless spirit, making it a meaningful choice for a baby girl.

9. Kamili

Your daughter may grow up to be a person who does anything to perfection. So look at a name like Kamili with Swahili roots, which refers to ‘perfect’.

10. Kesi

Kesi is a famous name among Africans, Kenyans and Swahilians. This name means ‘ one who is born at the time of trouble for father’.

11. Lulu

Lulu is a pretty name for your baby, it is a feminine name originating from Swahili. Lulu means pearl.

12. Mila

Girls are the epitome of grace. So try a name like Mila for your baby girl, which means ‘gracious’.

13. Musu

Musu is a Swahili girl’s name that means “gentle” or “graceful.” It reflects qualities of kindness and elegance in a child.

14. Nina

If you are searching for a short and sweet name starting with N, then think about the name Nina, which has Swahili roots that mean ‘mother’.

15. Njeri

Njeri is a name that makes your daughter stand out from the crowd for its uniqueness. Njeri means ‘warrior’.

16. Otesha

Otesha is a beautiful Swahili girl name that means “to be brave” or “courageous”, reflecting strength and determination in the child.

17. Rehema

Rehema is a lovely name that starts with the letter R. Rehema means mercy or indulgence, and it is an excellent name choice for your little one.

18. Sakina

Sakina is a wonderful feminine name meaning peace. This name is derived from the Arabic word Sakoon.

19. Safiyah

How about a name like Safiyah for your munchkin? Safiyah is a name with Arabic roots which means ‘friend or pure’.

20. Sune

Sune is a beautiful Swahili girl name meaning “joy” or “happiness”, symbolizing a cheerful and bright personality. It’s a perfect choice for parents looking for a name with a positive and uplifting meaning.

21. Tisha

Tisha is a cute and adorable name for your little one. Tisha is a name with African roots and it means innocent.

22. Ujana

Ujana is a lovely name of Swahili origin, meaning “youth” or “youthfulness.” This unisex name signifies vitality, freshness, and the spirit of new beginnings, making it an excellent choice for both boys and girls.

23. Wub

Wub is a beautiful Swahili girl name that means “love”. It reflects warmth, affection, and the caring nature of a loving personality.

24. Zahra

Zahra is a beautiful Swahili girl name meaning “flower” or “blossom”, symbolizing beauty, purity, and radiance.

25. Zuri

Zuri is a catchy Swahili name that originates from Africa. Your pretty princess deserves a name like Zuri, as it refers to ‘beautiful’.

Beautiful Swahili Names for Girls

Swahili names are known for their flair and elegance.

1. Adila

Showing your girl the path of honesty is a great way of upbringing. A name like Adila reminds your daughter to be true as it means ‘honesty’.

2. Afiya

Let your baby know the importance of good health in life with a name like Afiya, which means health.

3. Alix

4. Amira

Your baby girl is the princess of your home, so why not give her a name like Amira, which means ‘Princess’, to cherish all her life?

5. Avana

Another interesting name to be considered for your little princess is the name Avana. It is a short and sweet name that has a variation of the Kiswahili name Ayanna, meaning ‘pretty flower’.

6. Ayanna

We know how delicate and precious your little one is. Try a name like Ayanna, which sounds girly and means ‘beautiful flower’.

7. Binti

Binti has African-Swahili roots and beautifully means ‘daughter’. It is a meaningful and elegant name that celebrates heritage and familial love.

8. Buhle

Buhle is a Swahili girl name meaning “beauty” or “beautiful.” It reflects elegance and charm, making it a lovely choice for a baby girl.

9. Imarisha

Imarisha is a beautiful Swahili girl’s name meaning “stabilise” or “make firm.” It reflects strength, resilience, and the ability to bring balance and steadiness to life.

10. Jama

Jama is a Swahili girl name that means “relative.” It’s a simple yet meaningful name that reflects family connection and bonds.

11. Kakena

12. Kali

A unique yet adorable baby girl name is Kali. Kali is a name of Swahili origin, and it means ‘Intense’.

13. Kaluwa

Kaluwa is a beautiful Swahili girl name meaning “graceful” or “blessed.” It reflects elegance and positivity, making it a lovely choice for a baby girl.

14. Kanzi

A child is the most precious gift for every parent. The name Kanzi is a wonderful Swahili name which means treasure.

15. Manga

Manga is a unique name that makes your child stand apart. Manga means wanderer and is a name of Swahili origin.

16. Muraty

Daughters are our first best friends. So why not choose this name, which means ‘friend’?

17. Mwamini

Mwamini is a Swahili girl’s name meaning “faithful” or “believer.” It reflects a strong sense of trust, loyalty, and devotion.

18. Nea

Your baby girl is the most amazing star for you. How about a name like Nea that refers to radiant, glossy or shimmering?

19. Nia

A cute name for your little princess is Nia. Nia refers to ‘with purpose’.

20. Nuru

Nuru is a wonderful Swahili name for your little girl. Nuru means the one who is born in daylight.

21. Onyesha

Onyesha is a Swahili girl’s name meaning “to show” or “to demonstrate.” It symbolizes someone who reveals truth, talent, or inner beauty.

22. Terema

Terema is a Swahili girl’s name meaning “gift” or “blessing.” It represents someone who is cherished and brings joy to those around her.

23. Wema

Wema is a charming Swahili name that means “kindness” or “goodness.” This name, suitable for both boys and girls, embodies a gentle and compassionate nature, reflecting the virtues of benevolence and warmth.

24. Zainabu

25. Zuwena

If you are looking for a unique Swahili name, then try the name Zuwena, which means ‘good’.

Gender-Neutral Swahili Baby Names

While many baby names focus primarily on specific genders, there are names that stay unbiased and work well for both boys and girls. The handful of names to follow are some extraordinary gender-neutral Swahili baby names to grace your child with:

1. Adia

Adia is a gender-neutral Swahili baby name meaning “gift” or “reward”, symbolizing something precious and cherished in a child’s life.

2. Ahadi

Ahadi is a gender-neutral Swahili baby name meaning “promise”, symbolizing hope, commitment, and a bright future.

3. Akiba

Akiba is a gender-neutral Swahili baby name meaning “treasure” or “savings,” symbolizing something precious and valuable in one’s life.

4. Amali

Amali is the ultimate baby name that should be on your shortlist. This baby’s name means ‘hope.’

5. Amini

Amini enjoys multicultural roots. In Swahili, it means ‘trust.’

6. Aminia

Aminia is a rare and uncommon baby name that works well for both genders. It means ‘faithful.’

7. Asali

Asali, meaning ‘honey,’ is a spectacular baby name that should certainly excite you.

8. Chaniya

Chaniya is a gender-neutral Swahili baby name meaning “graceful” or “full of charm.” It is a simple yet elegant name that reflects beauty and positivity.

9. Fahari

This name is an absolute gem! Meaning ‘splendour,’ Fahari symbolises untapped opportunities and talents in an individual.

10. Jenga

Could it possibly relate to the game we all are thinking about- the Jenga? Who knows! By the way, Jenga means ‘to build’ in Swahili.

11. Kiango

If you are looking for a warrior-like name with a gender-neutral appeal, then may we interest you in the Swahili name Kiango? The meaning of the name is ‘shield.’

12. Kijani

Kijani is a Swahili term that represents ‘leaves’ or ‘green.’ If you are after a nature-tuned name, then you’ve found your pick.

13. Kimya

Kimya is an uncommon baby name that means ‘silent.’ Silence is not bad and should not be scared of; it actually symbolises stillness and calmness without any fuss.

14. Kina

Kina is a gender-neutral Swahili name that means “depth,” symbolizing wisdom and profound character. Its simplicity and meaningful essence make it a thoughtful choice for any child.

15. Maarifa

See a future humanitarian in your baby? For your twinkle toes, Maarifa is an extraordinary name that means ‘knowledgeable.’

16. Mosi

The meaning of the name is ‘first-born child.’ Newbie parents can make the best of this name by using this name for their first child.

17. Najia

Najia is a house-favourite Swahili name, considering the fact it has a wonderful meaning and has a stylish appeal. The meaning of the name is ‘offspring.’

18. Nyimbo

For your melodious baby, here is the most serene musical Swahili name – Nyimbi. The meaning of the name is ‘song.’

19. Nyota

Nyota is a special celestial baby name that means ‘star.’ The name resonates with hope, strength, and limitless potential.

20. Safari

Safari is by far the best gender-neutral Swahili baby name, and it has also been a favourite among parents. The meaning of Safari in Swahili is ‘journey.’

FAQs

1. Are there any traditional naming ceremonies in Swahili culture?

In the Swahili community, naming a child is a significant event involving consultations with family elders, religious leaders, and other important figures. Typically, children are named on the seventh day after their birth. A popular tradition involves writing several names on pieces of paper, scattering them on the floor, and letting the baby pick one. The baby then receives the name on the chosen paper.

2. What do Swahili baby names symbolise?

In Swahili, a baby’s name is never randomly chosen. It often reflects their birth circumstances, like the time or day they were born, their position in the family, or significant events around their conception. Additionally, a name can symbolise parents’ hopes and expectations for their child’s future. For instance, Kakena in Swahili means ‘happy,’ Simba means ‘lion,’ Azizi means ‘precious treasure,’ and Omari means ‘flourishing.’ Each name is thoughtfully chosen based on their significant meaning.

One of the important decisions to make as a parent is to choose the right name for your baby. Exploring Swahili names and meanings can help you choose the right name for your little one that truly reflects individuality and character.

Infographic : Swahili Boy & Girl Names with Meanings

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