Find out how popular the first name Iganze has been for the last 3 years (from 2022 to 2024) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Iganze by gender

Based on the last 3 years of data, Iganze is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2024, there were 8 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Iganze.

The history of the first name Iganze

The given name Iganze has its origins traced back to the Bantu languages spoken in Central and Southern Africa, primarily in the region now known as the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The name is believed to have emerged around the 15th century CE, derived from the root word "ganza," which means "to soar" or "to rise above."

In the ancient Kongo Kingdom, which flourished from the 14th to the 19th century, Iganze was a name often bestowed upon children born under auspicious circumstances or during significant celestial events, such as eclipses or meteor showers. It was a symbolic representation of the hope that these children would rise above adversity and achieve great heights in their lives.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Iganze can be found in the oral traditions and folklore of the Bakongo people, where it is mentioned in several legends and stories passed down through generations. These tales often depicted individuals named Iganze as brave warriors, skilled hunters, or wise elders who guided their communities through challenging times.

Throughout history, several notable figures have borne the name Iganze. One such individual was Iganze Mvemba, a renowned Kongo diplomat and negotiator who lived in the late 16th century. He played a crucial role in facilitating trade and diplomatic relations between the Kongo Kingdom and Portuguese explorers and colonists.

Another notable Iganze was Iganze Kinlanga, a powerful chief and military leader from the 18th century, who is celebrated for his victories against rival tribes and his efforts to preserve the cultural traditions of his people.

In the 19th century, Iganze Nsaku was a prominent scholar and historian who documented the rich heritage and customs of the Bakongo people, contributing significantly to the preservation of their oral histories and traditions.

During the 20th century, Iganze Mbuila gained recognition as a pioneering artist and sculptor, renowned for his intricate wood carvings that depicted scenes from Bakongo mythology and daily life.

Lastly, Iganze Ndungi, born in 1952, is a contemporary Congolese writer and activist who has brought international attention to the struggles and resilience of his people through his powerful literary works.

While the name Iganze may not be as widely used today as it once was, its historical significance and symbolism continue to resonate within the cultures and communities that trace their roots back to the Bantu peoples of Central Africa.

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

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

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