Kesiwaa Afia Mensah
A Ghanaian cultural historian who documented Akan naming traditions in the early 20th century.
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IPA Pronunciation
/kɛˈsiːwɑː/
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Kesiwaa is a traditional Akan female name from Ghana, meaning 'born on Sunday.' It derives from the Akan day-naming system, where children are named according to the day of the week they are born. 'Kesi' relates to Sunday, and 'waa' is a feminine suffix. Historically, these names connect the individual to their cultural and spiritual origins, emphasizing the significance of the day and its associated characteristics.
In Akan culture, day names like Kesiwaa carry deep spiritual and social significance. Each day is associated with specific attributes and characteristics, and naming a child Kesiwaa links her identity to the energies and qualities of Sunday—often linked to the sun, vitality, and beginnings. These names reinforce cultural heritage and the cyclical nature of time and life, preserving ancestral customs through generations.
Today, Kesiwaa remains a beloved name in Ghana and among the diaspora, symbolizing pride in cultural identity. While some modern parents mix traditional names with Western ones, Kesiwaa is often chosen to retain a strong connection to heritage. Its uniqueness and melodic sound also appeal to parents seeking meaningful yet uncommon names for their daughters in a globalized world.
The name Kesiwaa carries the essence of “Born on Sunday; gift of the sun” from Akan (Ghanaian) tradition. Names beginning with "K" often embody qualities of knowledge, artistic talent, and sensitivity.
In Akan culture, day names like Kesiwaa carry deep spiritual and social significance. Each day is associated with specific attributes and characteristics, and naming a child Kesiwaa links her identity to the energies and qualities of Sunday—often linked to the sun, vitality, and beginnings. These names reinforce cultural heritage and the cyclical nature of time and life, preserving ancestral customs through generations.
A Ghanaian cultural historian who documented Akan naming traditions in the early 20th century.
Descendant and namesake inspired by Yaa Asantewaa, she was a prominent storyteller preserving Ashanti folklore.
An influential educator who promoted indigenous Ghanaian languages and cultural education.
Known for her leadership in women's empowerment within the Ashanti region.
Prominent activist advocating for cultural heritage preservation in Ghana.
A respected traditional priestess involved in spiritual ceremonies and community leadership.
Pioneer in Ghanaian women's literature, authoring works on identity and culture.
Folk artist known for weaving Akan symbolism into her paintings and textiles.
Musician
Actress
Politician
Visual Artist
Writer
Educator
Journalist
Entrepreneur
Kesiwaa
🌐Spanish
Kesiwaa
🌐French
Kesiwaa
🌐German
Kesiwaa
🌐Italian
ケシワア (Keshiwaa)
🌐Japanese
凯西亚瓦 (Kǎi xī yà wǎ)
🌐Chinese
كيسيوى
🌐Arabic
Kesiwaa is part of the Akan day-naming tradition, where each day has a male and female name, creating a unique cultural identity tied to the week’s cycle.
Girls named Kesiwaa are often perceived as radiant, warm, and lively, embodying the sunny energy that the name evokes. They tend to be optimistic, nurturing, and charismatic, with a natural ability to uplift others. The name suggests creativity, resilience, and a strong sense of cultural belonging, inspiring confidence and leadership qualities.
Kesiwaa is a Akan (Ghanaian) name meaning “Born on Sunday; gift of the sun”. Kesiwaa is a traditional Akan female name from Ghana, meaning 'born on Sunday.' It derives from the Akan day-naming system, where children are named according to the day of the week they are born. 'Kesi' relates to Sunday, and 'waa' is a feminine suffix. Historically, these names connect the individual to their cultural and spiritual origins, emphasizing the significance of the day and its associated characteristics.
Kesiwaa is pronounced (IPA: /kɛˈsiːwɑː/). It has 2 syllables with the pattern N/A.
Popular nicknames for Kesiwaa include: Kesi, Siwa, Kes, Kessy, Waa, Kessy-Waa, Kiki, Essie, Sia, Kesie.
Famous people named Kesiwaa include: , , , , .
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Kesiwaa is a beautiful Akan (Ghanaian) name meaning “Born on Sunday; gift of the sun”. Kesiwaa is a traditional Akan female name from Ghana, meaning 'born on Sunday.' It derives from the Akan day-naming system, where children are named according to the day of the week they are born. 'Ke...