140+ African Names for Boys With Meanings

Africa is a land of many ethnic groups, tribes, and races, and so are the African names for boys and girls. In African culture, special attention is given to the naming ritual of babies to give meaning to the lives of newborns. Several different African cultures have inspired black baby boy names. The strong baby boy names can be taken from different communities and regions like South Africa, Ghana, Uganda, Swahili, etc. While many consider the time or day a baby is born and the families’ faith, others look for the order of the child’s birth or ancestry. Our name stays with us for our entire lives and even after that. Therefore, we will help you with finding cute names for your baby boy by giving you plenty of options to choose from in our compilation of African boy names. These handpicked names cover everything from famous and trending to the most meaningful African male names.

Popular African Boy Names

The African names are mostly short and contain a deep meaning in them. The West African boy names are known for their strong identity and, hence, are chosen by many people. We give you top names from different African communities and cultures to make it easier. Naming your little one is a daunting task, but the powerful African boy names below will help you find the best name for your kid.

1. Abasi

It is the name of Swahili origin. Its meaning is “stern”. This name signifies the strength of a male.

2. Abidemi

Abidemi is a unique Yoruba boy’s name which means “born during father’s absence”. The name is usually given to boys when a child’s father is away from the family when the child is born.

3. Abrafo

This beautiful Ghanaian name is very rare and unique. Its meaning is “warrior”. The name carries a lot of energy and hype.

4. Adisa

It is a Ghana name that is popular in the African folks. It refers to the one who teaches others. It has a guiding essence of God in it and renders positivity to the name-bearer.

5. Adrian

This name is generally used for someone noble. Its meaning is “high-class man”. This name is popular in the central Madagascar tribes.

6. Adwin

It is a famous Ghana name that is popular among the folks. It refers to an artist or someone who thinks deeply. It is a name associated with intellect.

7. Azizi

This beautiful name has its origin in the Swahili and Kiswahili culture. It means “the precious one”.

8. Babatunde

This name is very popular as it refers to the phrase “Father has returned”. The kids who resemble their grandfather are given this name.

9. Beluchi

The Ibo people of Nigeria mostly used this name. Its meaning is “provided God approves”.

10. Berhane

Berhane is a renowned African name of Amharic origin. It stands for “my light”.

11. Bwana

This is the name of Kiswahili origin that means “gentleman”. It is a very catchy name with a crisp touch to it.

12. Cardiraxman

Cardiraxman is a variant of the Arabic name Abd Al-Rahman. The name grew popular in Somalia, and it means “servant of the merciful”.

13. Chaka

It is a very catchy name that means a king. It is a very popular name in the Ghana tribal communities.

14. Chinua

It is a Nigerian name for boys that means “blessing of the Almighty”. This name is perfect for your little boy who is nothing less than a blessing in your life.

15. Dakarai

Dakarai belongs to the Shona ethnic group, primarily living in Zimbabwe. The meaning of the name is “rejoice”.

16. Dawit

Dawit is an Amharic name which originated from the name David. This is a religious and common name around Africa.

17. Dzigbode

This is also a Ghana name, which means “patience”.

18. Ebrima

Ebrima is a West African name for boys, which means “feather of many”.

19. Effiom

It is a very rare name of Nigerian origin that means “crocodile”. This name is significant in power.

20. Elimu

It is a Kiswahili word with meaning “knowledge”. The kids with this name are generally very smart and sharp.

21. Erasto

This name is particularly popular in Eastern Africa. It means “a man of peace”.

22. Fodjour

The meaning of Fodjour is the fourth child of the family.

23. Getachew

This name can be shortened to be called Getty or Get. It is an Amharic name for a baby boy and its meaning is “master”.

24. Gudina

Gudina is an Orono name that means “growth” and “advancement”.

25. Hakim

This smart name has its roots in the African Muslim culture. The meaning of Hakim is a doctor. This name has a healing touch in it that will make all your sadness go away when you take this name.

26. Hanisi

It is a very charming name for your little prince. Its meaning is “a person born on Thursday”.

27. Hondo

If you are looking for a name that is very easy to call and pronounce, Hondo is the best name for your boy. Its meaning is war. This name has huge popularity in Zimbabwe.

28. Iniko

Never heard of this name? This is a unique name, which is very rare in the African tribes. It is a Nigerian name that can be used for both a baby girl and a baby boy.

29. Jawara

Jawara is a famous name in Senegal and Gambia regions. This name means “one who loves peace”.

30. Jimiyu

It is a Kenyan male name. It is the name given to someone who is born during the dry season.

31. Juma

Juma is someone born on Friday. It is a cool name having its roots in Swahili.

32. Jumaane

Jumaane is a popular name which comes from Swahili. It means “born on a Tuesday”.

33. Kabaka

It is a famous Uganda name. This name was very loved in the royal tribes of Uganda. Its meaning is “king”.

34. Kamau

If you are looking for a strong and powerful name for your little prince, then look no further. Kamau is a Kikuyu name, meaning “quiet warrior”.

35. Keita

This name is originated in the West African region. It has seen exponential growth in its popularity among the African communities. Its meaning is “one who worships”.

36. Kenyatta

This is a very musical name from East Africa. It renders the pure music vibes to the name-bearer and the ones who take his name. Kenyatta means “a musician”.

37. Kifle

This name is inspired by a phrase famous in Tigrinya. The meaning of Kifle is “my share, my due”. It is a very manly name for your little Superman.

38. Lanre

This Yoruba name is a well-known name that means “wealth is my fortune”.

39. Lekan

Lekan means “my wealth is increased” in Yoruba. Many people with the name Olamilekan use the Lekan as a nickname for their little boy.

40. Mahamadou

Mahamadou is a popular African boy’s name, which is the form of Muhammad. The name is very popular in French-influenced western Africa and is mostly chosen by Islamic parents who want to stay rooted in their heritage.

41. Nnamdi

Nnamdi stands for “my father is alive” in Igbo.

42. Nyasore

This is a Kenyan male name which refers to someone petite and thin. It is a different name and has a lot of appeal in it.

43. Othieno

If your baby boy was born at night, this is an apt name for him. This is because of the meaning of the word “Othieno” which refers to the one who is born at night.

44. Roble

Is your boy a monsoon baby? We give you the best name for him, which is Roble. Roble refers to the one who is born during the rainy season. What can be a better name for your shower of happiness?

45. Sekani

Sekani is a rare African boy’s name that means “laugh” in Tumbuka.

46. Selassie

This name has various spelling variants like Selassy or Selassie. It is a male name of Amharic origin. It means “trinity”.

47. Tafari

Tafari is an Amharic name which means “he who inspires”.

48. Tewodros

It is the African variant of a Greek-born word. Its meaning is “Gift of God”.

49. Yohance

It is a name that originated in Western Africa. This unique name has a beautiful meaning as well. It means “God’s gift”.

50. Zikomo

Zikomo is a beautiful African name from the Chewa ethnic group, Malawi. The meaning of the name is ‘thank you.’

Cute African Names for Boys

If it is cute and adorable names that interest you, this list of adorable African baby boy names will be perfect for your charmingo!

1. Aamadu

Amadu originated from the Arabic name Ahmad and means “praiseworthy”.

2. Abebe

It is a name that has its roots in the Ethiopian culture. It is a popular name in African regions and its meaning is “flower”.

3. Adama

It is a Gambian variant of the name Adam. It is a unisexual name that means “a beautiful child”.

4. Adan

It is a Nigerian name with meaning “a huge bat”.

5. Addo

This name has its origin in the Ghana culture. It refers to the king of the road.

6. Afram

It is the name of a river that flows in the Ashanti region of Ghana. It is a perfect name for your cute little boy.

7. Badru

This name is given to the one who is born on the full night as its meaning says so. It has its origin in the Swahili language.

8. Badu

It is an African name that means “the tenth child”.

9. Bobo

This is a very trendy name coming from the tribal communities of Ghana. Its meaning is “born on Tuesday”. In the African language, its meaning is “humble”.

10. Cali

Cali is a popular East African name for boys, which means “sublime” or “lofty”.

11. Camara

It is a West African boy’s name, which means “teacher”. This name is enlightened by the intelligent vibes and has a positivity associated with it.

12. Chege

It is a Kenyan name that means “vigorous”.

13. Chicha

This funky name is both cute and sweet. Its meaning is also very cute. It refers to someone you love.

14. Dalmar

It is a Somalian name. Its meaning is “versatile”.

15. Domelvo

It is a cute name popular in the Ghana community. Its meaning is “do not take others for the value of their face”.

16. Edet

The meaning of this Nigerian name is “born on a market day”.

17. Efe

It is a West African name for boys, which means “wealth” or “riches.” This name signifies abundance and prosperity and is commonly used among the Urhobo and Itsekiri people of Nigeria.

18. Ezeji

It is a very different name in both its spelling and prevalence. Its meaning is “the king of yams”.

19. Faraji

Faraji is a Swahili name which stands for “consolation”.

20. Fela

It is a short name that means “warlike”. It is an African name that can be used for both a girl and a boy.

21. Fynn

It is a variant of the famous Ghanaian name Offin, which was derived from the name of the Offin River.

22. Gabra

This is a very distinctive name that means “an offering”. It has a beautiful spiritual touch in it.

23. Ghedi

This name has its roots in the Somali culture. It refers to a ‘traveller.’

24. Gogo

It is a very trendy name. The rhyming sequence of this name makes it very catchy. This is a South African name with meaning “like a grandfather”.

25. Hagos

This name has a dynamic vibe associated with it. Its meaning is “happiness” and it is sure to bring joy and happiness to your little one’s life.

26. Haji

Haji refers to someone who is born during the period of Hajj. It is the name of Swahili origin.

27. Idi

It is a very short name that is very easy to spell. It is born out of Swahili and Muslim culture. Idi is referred to someone who is born on the festive occasion of Eid.

28. Idir

Idir is a Tamazight name which means “alive”.

29. Ifa

Ifa is an Oromo name which stands for “light”.

30. Jafari

It is a very beautiful name in the Swahili culture. Its meaning is “creek”.

31. Jaja

Jaja is a Nigerian male name which means “God’s gift”. What can be a perfect name for your little one who is himself a gift for you?

32. Jomo

This funky name is originally from Kenya. Jomo means “a farmer”. It is a cute and short name that can be easily remembered.

33. Kabelo

Kabelo belongs to the Sotho ethnic group. It means “given”.

34. Kagiso

Kagiso means “peace” in Tswana.

35. Kato

This cute name is from Uganda. It is a very catchy name, meaning “the second-born twin”.

36. Lema

It means “developed” in the Amharic language. The beauty of this name is that it carries such a deep meaning in such a small name.

37. Lusala

This name was originated in Kenya. It has a cute meaning. It refers to “whipping”.

38. Madalitso

The Chewa name Madalitso means “blessings”.

39. Obi

Obi is an Igbo name which means “heart”.

40. Okoro

Okoro means “man” in Urhobo.

41. Panya

This name is hugely attractive and unique. Its meaning is “mouse” and it is such a cute name for your little bundle of joy.

42. Simba

It is the most loved and popular name in the whole world. There have been films made on Simba. The literal meaning of Simba is “a lion”.

43. Uchechi

This name can be shortened to Uchi. It is a very cute baby boy’s name and its meaning is “God’s will”.

44. Uzoma

Uzoma is a cute name of Nigerian origin and means “one born during a journey”.

45. Wangombe

This is a cute name that can be shortened to be called Wang. It refers to a person who owns several cows. It has its roots in Kenya.

46. Teferi

This name carries dignity and pride in it. The meaning of Teferi is the one who is powerful and is feared by rivals.

47. Warui

This Kenyan name is stylish and has a cool vibe. The meaning of this name is “one who comes from the river”.

48. Xolani

It is a South African name that means “live in peace”. It is used interchangeably with Xola, which has the same meaning.

49. Yaw

Yaw is a Ghanaian name which means “one who is born on a Thursday”.

50. Zola

This is a perfect name that connects you to the surreal silence of nature. The meaning of Zola is peace and calmness. It is a perfect name to inculcate a calm personality in your little one.

Powerful African Boy Names

For powerful and strong African boy names, check out this list.

1. Aboubacar

A variant of the Arab name Abu Bakr, Aboubacar is a western African name and is commonly seen in people from French-influenced Africa, including the Republic of Guinea. The meaning of the name is ‘father of the young camel.’

2. Ade

Ade is a commonly used prefix for an African name beginning with Ade. It is also a standalone name of Yoruba origin, which means ‘crown.’

3. Akpan

If you are in search of a powerful name for your first baby boy, Akpan could be an ideal choice. This African name of Ibibo origin means ‘firstborn son,’ which makes it fitting for the first child, particularly a boy.

4. Akpofure

Akpofure is an elegant African name of Urhobo origin, meaning ‘life is peaceful.’ This is a fitting name for your baby boy if he is calm like a sea. Plus, the pronunciation is just magnificent.

5. Alassane

This gorgeous and intimidating African boy’s name means ‘handsome.’ The name is shared by a popular Economist and then Prime Minister Alassane Ouattara, who served the International Monetary Fund and Ivory Coast as the Prime Minister in 1990.

6. Amadi

Amadi is a beautiful African name of Igbo roots. The meaning of the name is ‘free man.’ Amadi was also the name of a state in South Sudan that originated from the splitting of ten existing states into 28, which later reverted back.

7. Ameqran

Ameqran is a Tamazight name that signifies ‘eldest.’ Do you know that Tamazight or Tamaziɣt is among the various Berber languages spoken throughout North Africa? Mainly located in Morocco, Ameqran is represented as ⴰⵎⴻⵇⵔⴰⵏ in the traditional Tifinagh script.

8. Azubuike

With Igbo roots, Azubuike is an exemplary African boy’s name meaning ‘the past is your strength.’

9. Bitrus

A Hausa version of the common name Peter, Bitrus reflects its traditional essence. This Tswana name highlights its heritage without compromising on the condition of choosing a name inspired by Peter.

10. Bongani

Bongani is a sweet and pleasant-sounding Zulu name, meaning ‘grateful’ and ‘thankful.’ The name is perfect for your little one if they have been a blessing to your life.

11. Chibuike

A popular Igbo name, Chubuike means ‘God is strength.’

12. Chikondi

Chikondi is a special and unique name for boys with Chewa roots. The meaning of the name is ‘love.’ This beautiful and elegant will certainly accentuate your little one’s qualities.

13. Chima

If you are looking for a name that sounds and means legendary, you’ve got to try the name Chima. This stylish Igbo name means ‘God knows.’

14. Chinasa

Although Chinasa fits well with both genders, it sounds masculine to the ears, and a majority use it for naming boys. This classy Igbo moniker means ‘God answers.’

15. Chiumbo

A beautiful Mwera moniker, Chuimbo means ‘small.’ With this moniker, your baby will always feel right at home.

16. Chiyembekezo

If you are a positive and determined person and want to inculcate the characteristics of hope and positivity in your baby, giving your little one the name Chiyembekezo will be appropriate. The meaning of the name is ‘hope.’

17. Chucks

Chucks is a modish and cool short version of Igbo names beginning with chukwu. Like many nicknames, Chucks is also popular as a standalone name. The meaning of the name is ‘God.’

18. Dejen

Dejen is a popular Amharic name, which means ‘support’ or ‘foundation.’ It is also a regional name in Northern Ethiopia.

19. Desta

Desta is a subtle and handsome gender-neutral name of Amharic origin. It is commonly used for boys and signifies ‘joy.’

20. Ejiro

A cute and adorable name, Ejiro is certainly everyone’s apple of the eye and a treat to the ears. In Urhobo, it means ‘praise.’

21. Ekene

A quintessential name from Igbo culture, we have Ekene, which means ‘thank’ or ‘to praise.’ Your little one is sure to stay on the right path with a moniker to inspire them.

22. Ekundayo

If your little wonder of joy is someone you have been granted after plenty of hardships, then Ekundayo is certainly an ideal name for your baby boy. In Yoruba, the meaning of the name is ‘sorrow becomes joy.’

23. Eliud

Adapted from the Biblical Latin, this Greek name is quite popular in several African countries, especially in Kenya. The meaning of the name is ‘God is grandeur.’

24. Imamu

If you are a person of faith and would like your child to follow the same path but on a grander level, you can choose this fitting name. This Swahili name means ‘spiritual leader.’

25. Inyene

Every parent’s biggest wish is to give their child everything they wish for and need. With this Ibibo name, your little champ is sure to be on the path to success, as the meaning of the name is ‘wealth.’

Unique African Names for Boys

These unique African boy names with meanings are just what you need for inspiration. 

1. Adeoluwa

Adeoluwa belongs to the Yoruba ethnic group in West Africa and means ‘the crown brings honour.’

2. Alemayehu

Alemayehu is an Amharic moniker for baby boys, meaning ‘I have seen the world.’ Did you know that Ethiopian jazz singer Alemayehu Eshete is known as the Ethiopian Elvis? He had this first single got popular in 1961 with 30 more hits.”

3. Ayomikun

Belonging to the Yoruba roots in Nigeria, Ayomikun means ‘my joy is full.’

4. Baraka

Baraka or Barak is a Swahili moniker for boys from East Africa. The meaning of the name is ‘blessing.’

5. Bhekizizwe

This Zulu name from South Africa is quite unique and means ‘looking after the nations.’ If you are after a lengthy and sophisticated name for your child, this could be an interesting inspiration.

6. Chidiebere

Chidiebere is a classic quintessential Igbo name from Nigeria that is perfect for families following faith. The meaning of the name is ‘God is merciful.’

7. Chidubem

This unique African baby boy moniker has Igbo roots in Nigeria. The meaning of the name is ‘God is my guide.’

8. Ifeanyichukwu

Ifeanyichukwu is an Igbo moniker for boys, which signifies ‘nothing is impossible with God.’ This Nigerian name symbolises strength, faith, and determination, all of which are quintessential for an individual’s well-being and success.

9. Jabulile

This Zulu name from South Africa means ‘happiness.’ Expressing a glamorous flair and a beautiful quality, Jabulile is a name your baby can shine with.

10. Kumbukani

Kambukani is a unique Chichewa name from Malawi. The meaning of the name is ‘remember’ and exudes a vintage charm.

11. Kwaku

A perfectly fitting name if you are from Ghana and your charming little boy is born in the middle of the week. This Akanian name from Ghana means ‘born on Wednesday.’

12. Luthando

Belonging to the indigenous South African ethnic group of Xhosa, Luthando is a name worth remembering. This beautiful name means ‘love.’

13. Mphoentle

Mphoentle is quite popular among people from Sotho and Tswana. The meaning of the name is ‘beautiful gift.’

14. Mwamba

Parents aspiring their child to be as determined and stelth as a rock can try this name. Mwamba is Swahili means ‘rock.’

15. Obinna

Obinna is an endearing name from Igbo, Nigeria, which means ‘father’s heart.’ This name can be ideal for parents who cherish their sons.

16. Oluwafemi

Another way to show your faith and devotion is by naming your little one Oluwafemi, which is a beautiful Yoruba name from Nigeria. The name signifies ‘God loves me’ and is fitting for devotional families.

17. Rudo

Meaning ‘love,’ Rudo is a short and cool name for boys. It belongs to the Shona ethnic group of Zimbabwe.

18. Tumelo

If you have to belong to a family of faith and devotion, a great way to show your devotion is by gifting your little one a name that means ‘faith.’ It is quite popular among Sotho and Tswana people of Southern Africa.

19. Wandile

Wandile is a Zulu name that means ‘you have increased.’ The name has a smooth flair when pronounced and sounds pleasant on boys.

20. Zuriel

Zuriel remains a top choice among Amharic baby boy names. The meaning of the name is ‘God is my rock.’

FAQs

1. What are the African names for boys that mean ‘King?’

Eze is a beautiful African baby boy name that means ‘king’ in Ibo culture. In Arabic or Swahili, on the other hand, Malik or Maalik is popular, meaning ‘king.’

2. What are African boy names based on traditionally?

Traditional African names for boys and girls have several influences, such as the time or day of a baby’s birth, the order of the baby’s birth, a family’s faith and culture, regions (such as Nigeria, Kenya, Uganda, etc.), or naming after ancestors.

Getting the basic essence of the African culture in the name of your kid is beautiful. The African names carry simplicity in them and are very appealing. Your baby boy should be proud of his name and you must spend time on naming him. The name should be such that it gives a boost to the personality of your kid and make him a better person. A name is a person’s identity; therefore, select the best name for your prince to help him in growing into a great individual.

Also Read:

Jamaican Boy Names
Norwegian Names for Boys
Welsh Baby Names for Boys
American Boy Names with Meaning

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