Most Popular Baby Names in Kenya (Updated 2025)
Looking for a unique or meaningful name for your newborn? Here are the top baby names that have captured the hearts of Kenyan parents.
Introduction
Choosing a name for your child is one of the most exciting parts of parenthood. Many parents want a name that is not only beautiful but also meaningful, culturally rooted, and timeless. In Kenya, baby names are influenced by language, tribe, religion, global trends, and pop culture.
Here’s a curated list of the most popular baby names in Kenya in 2025, drawn from hospital birth records, naming trends, and cultural influences.
Top Baby Boy Names in Kenya
| Name | Meaning/Origin |
|---|---|
| Jayden | Thankful – Modern, biblical influence |
| Ethan | Strong, firm – Hebrew origin |
| Liam | Resolute protector – Irish origin |
| Brian | Noble, strong – English origin |
| David | Beloved – Biblical name, very popular |
| Ian | God is gracious – Scottish origin |
| Elijah | My God is Yahweh – Biblical influence |
| Ayaan | Gift of God – Islamic/Arabic influence |
| Trevor | Wise, clever – Modern English name |
| Junior | Son, often named after the father |
Top Baby Girl Names in Kenya
| Name | Meaning/Origin |
|---|---|
| Amani | Peace – Swahili/Arabic origin |
| Zuri | Beautiful – Swahili origin |
| Precious | Of great value – English, modern name |
| Faith | Belief – Christian influence |
| Elsie | God is my oath – English origin |
| Nia | Purpose – Swahili/Kiswahili name |
| Wendy | Friend – Popular modern name |
| Joy | Happiness – English origin |
| Hope | Positive expectation – Biblical |
| Talia | Dew of heaven – Hebrew/modern twist |
Top Unisex Baby Names in Kenya
| Name | Meaning/Use |
|---|---|
| Alex | Short for Alexander/Alexandra – Greek |
| Sammy | Common in many communities – English |
| Jesse | God’s gift – Used by both genders in Kenya |
| Jordan | River name – Global appeal |
| Emmanuel/Emmanuela | God is with us – Biblical |
Tribal and Cultural Influence
Many parents still choose traditional names that reflect their heritage:
- Kikuyu: Wanjiru, Kamau, Njoki, Muriuki
- Luhya: Wanyonyi, Nabwire, Wafula
- Luo: Achieng’, Odhiambo, Atieno, Otieno
- Kalenjin: Kipchirchir, Chelangat, Kiptoo
- Kamba: Mutua, Mwende, Mbatha
- Swahili: Jamila, Salim, Asha, Idris
Mixing traditional and modern names is a growing trend-e.g., Jayden Odhiambo or Zuri Wanjiku.
Trends to Watch in 2025
- Short, sweet names like Zoe, Leo, Mia, Eli
- Names inspired by faith or virtue: Grace, Hope, Blessing
- Celebrity-influenced names from sports, movies, or music
- Swahili and African-origin names gaining global popularity
Whether you prefer a modern, traditional, or meaningful name, the most important thing is choosing one that you and your child will be proud of. The names above reflect not just popularity, but Kenya’s rich cultural diversity and evolving tastes.
