Find out how popular the first name Maisha has been for the last 50 years (from 1974 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Maisha by gender

Based on the last 50 years of data, Maisha is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 23 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Maisha.

The history of the first name Maisha

The name Maisha originates from the Swahili language, which is widely spoken in East Africa, particularly in countries like Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. The Swahili language itself is a Bantu language with influences from Arabic and other languages due to trade and cultural exchanges in the region.

Maisha is derived from the Swahili verb "isha," which means "to live" or "to exist." As a noun, "maisha" translates to "life" or "existence." Therefore, the name Maisha carries the meaning of "life" or "living." It is a name that symbolizes vitality, existence, and the essence of being.

Historically, the name Maisha has been documented in various literary works and cultural traditions within the Swahili-speaking regions of East Africa. It is believed to have been in use for several centuries, as the Swahili language and culture have a rich history dating back to the 7th century AD.

One of the earliest recorded examples of the name Maisha can be found in the Swahili epic poem "Utendi wa Tambuka," composed in the 18th century. This poem narrates the story of a Swahili princess named Maisha who embarked on a journey across the Indian Ocean.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Maisha. One such person was Maisha Maurid (born in 1943), a renowned Kenyan writer and poet who played a significant role in shaping the literary landscape of East Africa.

Another notable figure was Maisha Hashim (1919-1997), a Tanzanian politician and activist who advocated for women's rights and served as a member of the Tanzanian parliament.

In the world of music, Maisha Mukanga (born in 1980) is a celebrated Zambian singer and songwriter known for her powerful voice and blend of traditional and contemporary sounds.

The name Maisha has also been associated with historical figures in the realm of education. For example, Maisha Aidarus (1922-2010) was a prominent Kenyan educator and advocate for girls' education, recognized for her contributions to advancing educational opportunities in her country.

Additionally, Maisha Bakari (born in 1962) is a Tanzanian diplomat and former ambassador, who has represented her country on various international platforms and played a crucial role in promoting diplomatic relations.

These examples highlight the diverse backgrounds and achievements of individuals who have carried the name Maisha throughout history, reflecting the name's significance and its connection to the rich cultural heritage of East 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 Maisha was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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

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