Ghanaian
Baby Names
Discover Ghanaian Cultural Diversity through its Baby Names
In Ghana, baby naming is a significant cultural tradition. Children are often named based on the day of the week they were born, ethnic background, and family heritage. These "day names" carry cultural significance, reflecting traits associated with the day and are widely used across Ghana and the African diaspora.
Here's a breakdown of how Ghanaians typically name their babies!
Names based on the weekday the baby is born (Kra-Din)
Baby Boy
Day
Baby Girl
1. Monday
2. Tuesday
3.Wednesday
4. Thursday
5. Friday
6. Saturday
7. Sunday
1. Adwoa, Adjoa
2. Abena
3. Akua
4. Yaa
5. Afia, Afua
6. Ama
7. Akosua, Esi
1. Kwadwo, Kodzo
2. Kwabena, Kobi
3.Kweku, Abeiku
4.Yaw, Ekow
5.Kofi, Fiifi
6.Kwame, Kwamina
7.Kwesi, Kwasi, Akwasi
Beyond day names, children are given additional names based on family lineage, ancestral names, or clan affiliations. These names are deeply tied to Ghanaian identity and heritage. They reflect the spiritual and cultural beliefs of each tribe regarding personality traits influenced by one's day of birth. Individuals with Christian or English, and Muslims names often retain their day names as part of their identity.
One of the most common naming traditions in Ghana is based on the Akan System, where babies are given a "day name" according to the day of the week they are born. These names are believed to carry spiritual significance and traits associated with the day.
Other ethnic groups, such as the Ga, Ewe, and Dagombas, also have their own versions of day names. Some names reflect special circumstances surrounding the child's birth, such as "being born after a difficult labor", twins, a long-awaited child, a child born after many struggles.
Common "Akan" Names
Name
1. Nana
2. Mensah
3. Nyamekye
4. Osei
5. Obeng
6. Adjei
7. Boakye
8. Anokye
9. Owusu
10. Asantewaa
11. Adwoa Serwa
12. Akosua Konadu
1. Honorific for Elders
2. Third-born male
3.God's gift
4. Noble Leader
5. Warior
6. Strong One
7. Helper
8. Mystic
9. Mighty One
10. Female Warrior
11. Gentle and strong
12. Sunday-born princess
Meaning
Sunday born names like Kwasi and Akosua are associated with the universe and are believed to signify leadership qualities. Individuals born on this day are often seen as naturally self-assured and upbeat, with a strong sense of authority and leadership potential. Kojo and Adwoa are names given to those born on Monday, a day associated with peace. People born on this day are considered emotionally stable, peaceful, and nurturing, reflecting the calm and serenity of the moon.
However, Kwabena and Abena are the names for Tuesday, a day linked to the ocean and associated with forcefulness and bravery. Those born on this day are seen as bold and courageous, embodying the strength of the sea. Wednesday on the other hand, Kwaku and Akua are names associated with the planet Mercury and are known for their adaptability and intelligence. Individuals born on this day are often rational, hardworking, and perfectionists, with a calm exterior that hides emotional depth. Although at the same time Thursday; Yaw and Yaa are the names linked to Jupiter and associated with prosperity and self assurance. People born on this day are seen as confident, and successful.
Kofi and Afua are names for Friday, a day associated with Venus and known for creativity and passion.
Those born on this day are often imaginative, devoted, and passionate, reflecting the qualities of love and beauty. Individuals born on Saturday are seen as diligent, disciplined, and patient, embodying the qualities of stability and endurance. Kwame and Ama are the names for Saturday, a day associated with Saturn and are known for their discipline and patience.
Overall, Ghanaian day names are a profound part of the country's cultural heritage, reflecting not only the day of birth but also deeper meanings tied to the character, soul, and destiny. These names are believed to influence a person's life and are cherished as a significant aspect of Ghanaian identity, connecting individuals to their lineage and cultural traditions.
Popular "Ga" Names
Boy
Girl
1. Nii (prince/lord)
2. Tetteh (twin boy)
3. Quaye ( family leader)
4. Nartey (first-born son)
5. Lartey ( courageous one)
6. Ayi ( warrior)
7. Mensah (third-born)
8. Afotey ( royalty)
9. Armah ( good luck)
10. Anertey (first-born son)
1. Naa (Queen)
2. Dede ( First daughter)
3. Narkie (One who brings joy)
4. Ayele (blessed one)
5. Mansa (Great)
6. Oboshie (strong woman)
7. Akwele (second-born twin)
8. Naa Koshie (Queen of joy)
9. Naa Adjeley (Noble queen)
10. Akwele (twin girl)
The Ghanaian naming system is rich and diverse, reflecting the country's many ethnic groups and cultural traditions.
The baby's name is officially given during a naming ceremonies often called "outdooring ceremonies" which usually takes place on the 8th day after birth. This event is held to present the child to the community and announce their name. The meaning of the name, particularly the day name is explained during this ceremony.
People usually have several given names and surnames. These names often come from the languages of ethnic groups such as Akan, Ga, Ewe, Dagomba, and Nzema. Middle names are also given to indicate the birth order, whether the child is a twin, or may be taken from an ancestor such as Badu meaning born as the 10th child.
Circumstantial names are given to babies based on specific situation, events, or conditions surrounding their birth. These names are often deeply meaningful and reflect gratitude, hope, hardship, or the uniqueness of the child's arrival.A baby might be named Antobam, meaning " one who came unexpectedly," if the pregnancy was not planned or the birth came as surprise. A child born after years of infertility may be named Nyamekye, meaning "God's gift," expressing the parents' joy and gratitude for blessing them with a baby. Tawiah/Ata/Ataa are names given to twins to signify that the baby is part of a twin pair. Kakra and Panyin, in a set of twins, the first born is often called Paynin, meaning "elder," and the second Kakra, meaning "younger one."
These circumstantial names help tell a child's origin story and keep family and cultural memories alive.
Unique Names Only Ghanaians Can Pronounce
Name
1. Nhyirah
2. Obaapa
3. Boamah
4. Aseda
5. Abena
6. Yaa
7. Mawuli
8. Elikem
9. Dede
10. Ashorkor
"IN-she-rah"
"OH-baah-pah"
"BO-ah-mah"
"AH-seh-dah"
"AH-beh-nah"
"Yah"
"MAH-woo-lee"
"Eh-lee-kem"
"Deh-deh"
"Ah-shor-kor"
English Speakers
Northern Ghanaian names are deeply rooted in tradition, spirituality, and the lived experiences of families. Northern tribes such as the Dagomba, Mamprusi, Frafra, Kasena, and Gonja—focus on naming children based on the circumstances surrounding their birth, ancestral connections, and religious significance. For instance, a name like Chentiwuni(Dagbani) translates to “we do not fear death,” often given to a child born after repeated sibling loss, as a form of spiritual resilience. Similarly, Wumpini, meaning “God’s gift,” reflects the family's belief that the child is a divine blessing after difficulty or long waiting.
Religious and spiritual beliefs also influence naming, especially in predominantly Muslim communities like the Dagomba and Mamprusi. Names such as Sakina (meaning “peace” or “tranquility”) or Issifu (Friday-born) come from Arabic origins and are often paired with traditional names. Elders and religious leaders often play a role in selecting these names during naming ceremonies, held around the 7th or 8th day after birth. These ceremonies not only announce the child’s identity but also serve as a time of prayer, blessing, and introduction to the community. Each name, therefore, serves as a compact story—recording history, honoring ancestry, and expressing the family’s hope or gratitude.
Northern Ghanaian Names
Name
1. Abudu
2. Yakubu
3. Salifu
4. Issahaku
5.Sulemana
6. Fuseini
7. Zakaria
8. Atia
9. Sumaila
10. Mahama
1. Peaceful One
2. Leader
3. Kind-hearted
4. God's Child
5. Faithful
6. Bringer of joy
7. Wise One
8. Fearless
9. Defender
10. Warrior
Meaning
Many northern names also carry cultural or symbolic meaning tied to strength, status, or family structure. Ziblim (Dagbani) suggests lion-like bravery or leadership, while Tuntumba (Gonja) is typically given to a firstborn son, signifying the beginning of a new lineage or household. In the Mamprusi culture, a girl born after many boys may be called Saanpaga, a name that acknowledges her unique position and may even carry spiritual significance. Among the Frafra or Builsa, names like Akologo or Ayamga highlight virtues such as protection and strength, reflecting the community’s value of leadership and responsibility.
Modern Ghanaian names are influenced by a mix of cultural religion, globalization, and personal or family preferences. However, with the spread of Christianity and Islam, many parents now combine indigenous names with Biblical, Quranic, or Western names to reflect their faith or modern identity. For instance, a child born on Tuesday might be named Kwabena John or Abena Ruth.
Unisex Ghanaian names are those that can be used for both males and females, often carrying powerful meanings rooted in tradition, status, or spirituality. Names like Nana, meaning “chief” or “leader,” are commonly used across genders, especially in royal or respectful contexts. Sika (gold/wealth), Adom (grace), and Gyasi (wanderer/traveler) are also widely recognized as unisex names
Names today can reflect parental values, personal stories, or admiration for global figures. Some parents choose English names with meanings that resonate with their hopes for the child, like Grace, Victor, or Emmanuel, while keeping their cultural identity through a traditional first or middle name. The result is a rich fusion of past and present, where names serve not just as identity markers, but also as a reflection of Ghana’s diverse and evolving society.
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My son (12) has a classmate (f 12-ish) that he talks about a lot. Every time he mentions her to me, he always called her “my angel.” We thought it was so adorable, “he’s got his first ever crush, omg so cute!” So today, after I picked him up from school, he was going on again about something funny “my angel” did, and I started teasing him about being into her because he’s always calling her by that cute nickname. He looked at me in total confusion and said “Mom, I don’t have a crush on her. That’s her name.” Yes, the girl is literally named Myangel. Just imagine the creep factor of everyone, including her teachers, being forced to literally call her “my angel.” Yikes…
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