Find out how popular the first name Buna has been for the last 3 years (from 2021 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Buna by gender

Based on the last 3 years of data, Buna is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 6 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Buna.

The history of the first name Buna

The name Buna is believed to have originated from the Bantu languages spoken across central and southern Africa. It likely derives from the root word "bun" or "buna," which means "to increase" or "to grow." This suggests that the name may have been given to children with the hope that they would grow strong and prosperous.

In some regions, Buna was also used as a feminine name, possibly referring to the idea of fertility or the ability to bear children. The name can be traced back to the 16th century, when it was documented in written records from various Bantu communities.

One of the earliest recorded individuals named Buna was a prominent chief of the Luba people in the Democratic Republic of Congo during the late 17th century. He was known for his diplomatic skills and helped maintain peace among neighboring tribes.

In the 19th century, Buna was the name of a respected medicine woman and healer among the Zulu people of South Africa. She was renowned for her knowledge of traditional remedies and her ability to treat various ailments.

Another notable figure named Buna was a warrior and military leader from the Kingdom of Kongo in the 15th century. He played a crucial role in defending the kingdom against Portuguese invaders and is remembered for his bravery and strategic prowess.

In the realm of literature, Buna was the name of a fictional character in the 1938 novel "Mhudi" by South African writer Sol T. Plaatje. The character was a strong-willed and resilient woman who represented the struggles and resilience of the Tswana people during the 19th-century wars in southern Africa.

During the 20th century, Buna Zulu was a South African anti-apartheid activist and trade unionist who fought for the rights of black workers. She was arrested and imprisoned several times for her involvement in the struggle against the oppressive apartheid regime.

While the name Buna has its roots in African cultures, it has also gained popularity in other parts of the world, particularly among those with African ancestry or those who appreciate the rich cultural heritage associated with the name.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Buna was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Buna, please contact us.

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