In many places, a name might just sound cool or come from a celebrity. But in Ghana? Oh no, names carry weight. They hold history, beliefs, emotions, and sometimes a little spice (especially if your name was given after a family “situation”).
You’re not just “Kojo” because it sounds trendy—you were born on a Monday, my guy.
Day Names: The Ghanaian Baby’s First ID
In Ghana, especially among the Akan, every child gets a day name, based on the day of the week they were born. Each day name has a meaning and character traits associated with it.
Here’s a peek:
| Day | Male Name | Female Name | Traits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | Kojo | Adwoa | Peaceful, diplomatic |
| Tuesday | Kwabena | Abena | Brave, warrior |
| Wednesday | Kwaku | Akua | Intelligent, curious |
| Thursday | Yaw | Yaa | Bold, adventurous |
| Friday | Kofi | Afia | Friendly, creative |
| Saturday | Kwame | Ama | Leader, wise |
| Sunday | Kwesi | Akosua | Spiritual, calm |
😅 Pro tip: If someone says “My name is Kwame,” you immediately know they’re a Saturday-born boss.
👉 Related Read: Ghanaian Breakfasts to Try Before You Die
🧓 Ancestral & Situational Names
Apart from day names, children are often given names of ancestors—usually to honor a late relative. This isn’t just sentimental; it’s believed that the child might inherit their character, strength, or even destiny.
Then there are situational names—based on events during or after the birth.
- Antobam (Ewe): “We didn’t expect this child” (a surprise baby 😂)
- Nyamekye (Akan): “Gift from God”
- Tawia: For a twin born second
- Piesie: The first child in a family
Sometimes, if a mother keeps losing babies, a child might be named “Kofi Mensa” or something similar to confuse spiritual forces so they don’t come for this one too.
Ghanaian parents: the original spiritual hackers.
🎊 Naming Ceremonies (Outdooring): Where Babies Make Their Public Debut
At around 7 to 8 days old, a Ghanaian baby gets introduced to the world in a ceremony called the Outdooring. In traditional homes, this is a big deal.
What Happens?
- Elders sprinkle water and alcohol on the ground (to distinguish truth from lies).
- A respected elder whispers the baby’s name into their ear (twice, for backup).
- There’s dancing, food, and gifts (especially bottles of schnapps if you’re in an Akan family).
- The child gets officially welcomed to the family and community.
👉 Related Read: Exploring Ghana by Region: What to See in Each Region
🙏 Names Reflect Beliefs
In Ghana, names also reflect a family’s faith, cultural beliefs, or dreams for the child. Here are a few:
- Nhyira: Blessing
- Yaw Sarpong: A powerful Thursday-born
- Selasi (Ewe): God has heard
- Kwame Nkrumah: History in a name 😌
✍️ Modern Touches
These days, some Ghanaian parents add English names like “Jason” or “Ella” for school and international purposes. But you better believe that their Ghanaian name is the one that brings out the real personality.
You’ve never seen a child sit up straighter until their mother yells “Afia Nyamekye!” across the room.
🧠 Quick Tips for Visitors
- Always ask a Ghanaian what day they were born—they’ll probably know.
- Respect traditional names. They’re full of meaning and family heritage.
- Attend a naming ceremony if invited. Come hungry. Seriously.