Find out how popular the first name Kumba has been for the last 24 years (from 2000 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Kumba by gender

Based on the last 24 years of data, Kumba is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 5 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Kumba.

The history of the first name Kumba

The name Kumba is believed to have its origins in the Bantu languages of Central Africa, particularly in the region now known as the Democratic Republic of Congo. The name is derived from the word "kùmba," which means "to create" or "to shape" in several Bantu dialects.

In some West African traditions, the name Kumba is associated with the concept of creation and the act of shaping the world. It is sometimes given to children born during important cultural or spiritual events, as a symbol of their role in shaping the future.

One of the earliest recorded mentions of the name Kumba can be found in the oral traditions and folktales of the Bakongo people, an ethnic group native to the western part of the Democratic Republic of Congo. These stories often feature characters with the name Kumba, who are portrayed as skilled artisans, craftsmen, or creators.

Throughout history, there have been several notable individuals who bore the name Kumba. One of the earliest recorded was Kumba Mbuta (c. 1550-1620), a prominent chief and leader of the Kongo Kingdom in present-day Angola and the Democratic Republic of Congo. He played a significant role in the diplomatic relations between the Kongo Kingdom and the Portuguese Empire.

Another historical figure with the name Kumba was Kumba Kosi (1810-1880), a prominent warrior and military leader from the Lunda Empire, which covered parts of present-day Angola, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Zambia. Kosi was known for his bravery and strategic prowess in defending his people against external threats.

In the 19th century, Kumba Nzinga (1836-1908) was a renowned traditional healer and spiritual leader among the Ovimbundu people of Angola. She was highly respected for her knowledge of medicinal plants and her ability to communicate with the spiritual realm.

The name Kumba also has historical significance in the context of the Transatlantic Slave Trade. Kumba N'gongo (c. 1770-1845) was a prominent leader of the Maroon community in Suriname, South America. He led a successful revolt against Dutch colonial authorities and established a free settlement for formerly enslaved Africans.

In more recent times, Kumba Ialá (1953-2014) was a prominent Bissau-Guinean writer, poet, and political activist. He played a significant role in the struggle for independence of Guinea-Bissau and his works explored themes of identity, resistance, and cultural heritage.

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

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

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