Find out how popular the first name Changa has been for the last 7 years (from 1974 to 1980) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Changa by gender

Based on the last 7 years of data, Changa is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 1980, there were 6 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Changa.

The history of the first name Changa

The name Changa is believed to have its origins in the Bantu languages of Africa. The root word "chang" or "changa" is thought to be derived from a word meaning "sun" or "light" in some Bantu dialects.

In certain parts of East Africa, particularly in regions like Uganda and Kenya, the name Changa has been used for centuries as a name for children born during the day or in the morning hours, symbolic of the rising sun.

The earliest recorded instance of the name Changa dates back to the 15th century, where it appears in a collection of oral histories and genealogical records from the Buganda Kingdom in present-day Uganda. It is mentioned as the name of a prince born to one of the ruling families.

One of the most notable historical figures with the name Changa was Changa Muchiwa, a 17th-century leader and diplomat from the Kingdom of Mutapa (present-day Zimbabwe and Mozambique). He is remembered for his efforts in negotiating peace treaties and fostering trade relations with neighboring kingdoms.

Another prominent individual was Changa Mwamba, a 19th-century Luba chief and warrior from the region of present-day Democratic Republic of Congo. He was known for his military campaigns and his role in establishing the Luba Kingdom as a major power in central Africa.

In the 18th century, Changa Mwene was a renowned healer and herbalist from the Lunda people of what is now Angola and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Her knowledge of traditional medicine and healing practices was widely respected throughout the region.

The name Changa also appears in some ancient Swahili poetry and oral traditions from the coastal regions of East Africa, often used as a metaphor for the sun or as a symbol of strength and vitality.

In the 20th century, Changa Makobo was a prominent Zambian politician and activist who played a significant role in the country's independence movement. He served as a member of parliament and was known for his advocacy for workers' rights and social justice.

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 Changa was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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

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