Find out how popular the first name Kelela has been for the last 1 years (from 2006 to 2006) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Kelela by gender

Based on the last 1 years of data, Kelela is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2006, there were 6 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Kelela.

The history of the first name Kelela

The name Kelela is believed to have its origins in the Bantu languages of Central and Southern Africa. It is thought to be derived from the root word "kela" which means "to lead" or "to guide" in several Bantu dialects.

The earliest recorded instances of the name Kelela date back to the 15th century, when it was used by various ethnic groups in present-day Zambia and Zimbabwe. During this time, the name was often given to children who were born into leadership roles or were destined to become leaders within their communities.

In the 17th century, the name Kelela gained popularity among the Lozi people of Western Zambia. According to oral traditions, one of the earliest recorded individuals with this name was Kelela Mwanawina, a prominent chief who ruled over the Lozi kingdom from 1680 to 1712. He was known for his wisdom and diplomatic skills, which helped to maintain peace and prosperity within his territory.

Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, the name Kelela continued to be used by various Bantu-speaking communities across Southern Africa. One notable figure from this period was Kelela Mwamba, a Chokwe chieftain from present-day Angola, who led his people in resistance against Portuguese colonial rule in the late 1800s.

As the African diaspora spread across the globe, the name Kelela also made its way to other parts of the world. In the early 20th century, a woman named Kelela Mashego became one of the first South African nurses to be trained in the United Kingdom, working at the Royal Free Hospital in London from 1914 to 1920.

Another notable individual with the name Kelela was Kelela Mwatana, a Zambian politician and activist who played a significant role in the country's struggle for independence from British colonial rule in the 1950s and 1960s.

While the name Kelela has its roots in Africa, it has since been adopted and used by people of various backgrounds and cultures around the world. However, its original meaning and cultural significance remain deeply rooted in the Bantu languages and traditions of Central and Southern 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 Kelela was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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

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