Find out how popular the first name Mwajuma has been for the last 4 years (from 2021 to 2024) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Mwajuma by gender

Based on the last 4 years of data, Mwajuma is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2024, there were 9 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Mwajuma.

The history of the first name Mwajuma

Mwajuma is a feminine given name that originates from the Swahili language, primarily spoken along the coastal regions of East Africa. The name is derived from the Arabic word 'jum'a,' meaning Friday, which holds significant religious and cultural importance in the Islamic faith.

The earliest recorded use of the name Mwajuma can be traced back to the 7th century, during the spread of Islam along the East African coast. It is believed that the name was adopted by local populations as a way to embrace the new religion, with its connection to the weekly congregational prayer held on Fridays.

In historical records, Mwajuma appears in various ancient Swahili texts and manuscripts, reflecting the cultural exchange and intermingling of African and Arab influences in the region. One notable example is the 16th-century Swahili chronicle, the "Kilwa Chronicle," which mentions several prominent individuals bearing the name Mwajuma.

Throughout history, several notable figures have carried the name Mwajuma. One of the earliest recorded individuals was Mwajuma bint Hamad al-Maawali (c. 1200-1270), a renowned Swahili poet and scholar from the Lamu Archipelago. Her poetic works, known as "Utendi wa Mwajuma," have been celebrated for their literary merit and insights into the cultural life of the time.

Another significant figure was Mwajuma bint Salim (1890-1965), a Tanzanian educator and activist who played a pivotal role in promoting women's education and empowerment in the region. She established several schools and advocated for the rights of women and girls, leaving a lasting legacy in the field of education.

In the realm of politics, Mwajuma Masaiganah (1922-2008) was a prominent figure in Tanzania's independence movement. She served as a member of the Tanganyika Legislative Council and played a crucial role in advocating for women's participation in the country's political landscape.

Moving to the literary sphere, Mwajuma Hussein (1945-2008) was a celebrated Tanzanian author and playwright. Her works, including "Ngao ya Jadi" and "Makuadi wa Kwaheri," explored themes of culture, identity, and societal issues, earning her recognition as one of the most influential Swahili writers of her time.

Lastly, Mwajuma Masaiganah (born 1980) is a contemporary Tanzanian musician and songwriter, known for her fusion of traditional Swahili rhythms with modern influences. Her music has gained popularity both locally and internationally, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Swahili people.

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

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