Find out how popular the first name Wanjiru has been for the last 1 years (from 2003 to 2003) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Wanjiru by gender

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

For the most recent data in 2003, there were 8 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Wanjiru.

The history of the first name Wanjiru

The name Wanjiru has its origins in the Kikuyu language, spoken by the Kikuyu people of Kenya. It is believed to have emerged in the late 18th or early 19th century, during the period of the Kikuyu expansion and settlement in the fertile highlands of present-day central Kenya.

The name Wanjiru is derived from the Kikuyu word "njiru," which means "blessed" or "fortunate." It is a common name given to girls, signifying a wish for a blessed and fortunate life for the child.

While there are no known historical references to the name Wanjiru in ancient texts or religious scriptures, it has been a part of the Kikuyu culture for generations. The earliest recorded examples of the name can be traced back to the late 19th century, during the colonial era in Kenya.

One of the earliest and most notable figures to bear the name Wanjiru was Wanjiru Gakuru (c. 1880-1958), a Kikuyu woman who became a prominent leader and spokesperson for her people during the colonial period. She was known for her efforts to protect the land rights of the Kikuyu and her advocacy for women's empowerment.

Another notable figure was Wanjiru Kihoro (1919-2008), a Kenyan freedom fighter and politician who played a significant role in the struggle for independence from British colonial rule. She was among the first women elected to the Kenyan parliament in 1963.

In the field of athletics, Wanjiru Mbunga (born 1971) was a Kenyan long-distance runner who won multiple international marathons and held the world record for the half-marathon for several years.

Wanjiru Nderu (born 1980) is a well-known Kenyan journalist, news anchor, and media personality, known for her work in various television and radio stations in Kenya.

Wanjiru Kinyanjui (born 1986) is a Kenyan entrepreneur and founder of Akili Kids, a company that produces educational toys and books for children in Africa.

The name Wanjiru continues to be popular among the Kikuyu people and is a testament to their rich cultural heritage and tradition.

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

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

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