Ujamaa

What does the baby name Ujamaa mean? Learn about what Ujamaa means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Ujamaa - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Ujamaa: U-J-A-M-A-A, is a 6-letter female given name.
Meaning of Ujamaa: Fellowship, brotherhood.
Origin of Ujamaa: The name 'Ujamaa' originates from the Swahili language, which is spoken by millions of people in East Africa. Swahili is a Bantu language that blends elements of Arabic, Persian, Portuguese, and English. 'Ujamaa' is a Swahili word that means 'familyhood' or 'extended family'.

The earliest known use of the name 'Ujamaa' can be traced back to the mid-20th century when it gained prominence during the independence movements in East Africa. It was popularized by Tanzania 's first president, Julius Nyerere, who introduced the concept of 'Ujamaa' as a guiding principle for his country.; Swahili Names
Popularity of Ujamaa: The popularity of the name 'Ujamaa' has been relatively limited outside of East Africa. However, within the region, it has been a significant name, particularly during the 1960s and 1970s when Nyerere 's 'Ujamaa' policies were at their peak. These policies aimed to promote communal living and self-reliance, emphasizing the importance of extended family and collective responsibility.; Ujamaa currently has no likes. Be the first to like this name.

Etymology of Ujamaa

The name 'Ujamaa' derives from the Swahili word 'ujamaa', which comes from the root word '-jamaa'. In Swahili, '-jamaa' means 'family' or 'relatives'. The prefix 'u-' denotes the noun class for abstract concepts, giving the name its broader meaning of 'familyhood' or 'extended family'.

Cultural Significance of Ujamaa

The name 'Ujamaa' holds particular cultural significance in Tanzania, where it is deeply intertwined with the country 's history and identity. It represents the values of unity, cooperation, and communal living that were emphasized during Nyerere 's presidency. The concept of 'Ujamaa' remains an important part of Tanzanian culture, reflecting the country 's commitment to social cohesion and collective progress.