Find out how popular the first name Kiwana has been for the last 25 years (from 1974 to 1998) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Kiwana by gender

Based on the last 25 years of data, Kiwana is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 1998, there were 5 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Kiwana.

The history of the first name Kiwana

The given name Kiwana is believed to have its origins in the Swahili language, spoken primarily in East Africa. The name is thought to be derived from the Swahili word "kiwana," which means "small" or "little one." This suggests that the name may have been initially bestowed upon children or used as a term of endearment.

One of the earliest recorded uses of the name Kiwana can be traced back to the 19th century in the coastal regions of present-day Kenya and Tanzania, where Swahili was widely spoken. During this time, the name was likely used within local communities and families, reflecting the cultural traditions and naming practices of the region.

While there are no known historical references to the name Kiwana in ancient texts or religious scriptures, it is possible that the name has been in use for centuries, passed down orally within the Swahili-speaking communities of East Africa before being documented in written records.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Kiwana. One such person was Kiwana Ndogo (c. 1860-1930), a prominent Swahili trader and entrepreneur who operated in the coastal regions of present-day Tanzania during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Ndogo played a significant role in the regional trade networks and was known for his business acumen and influence.

Another individual with the name Kiwana was Kiwana Mbele (1902-1987), a Tanzanian politician and activist who played a crucial role in the country's independence movement in the mid-20th century. Mbele served as a member of the Tanganyika Legislative Council and was a vocal advocate for the rights and self-determination of the Tanzanian people.

In the realm of literature, Kiwana Shaibu (1919-1996) was a notable Swahili poet and writer from Tanzania. Shaibu's works contributed significantly to the development and preservation of Swahili literature, exploring themes of culture, identity, and social issues in his poetry and prose.

Moving to the present day, Kiwana McClung (b. 1976) is an American professional basketball player who had a successful career in the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA). McClung played for several teams, including the Detroit Shock and the Sacramento Monarchs, and was known for her defensive skills and versatility on the court.

Lastly, Kiwana Denzongpa (b. 1981) is an Indian actress and model who has appeared in numerous Bollywood films and television series. Denzongpa has gained recognition for her performances in various roles, showcasing her talent and versatility as an actress in the Indian entertainment industry.

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

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

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