9 African Countries That Changed Their Names

9 African Countries That Changed Their Names

Across Africa, several nations have renamed themselves after independence or to better reflect their identity, history, and culture. Here are some notable examples:

1. Gold Coast → Ghana (1957) 🇬🇭
When the Gold Coast gained independence from Britain, it chose the name Ghana, inspired by the ancient West African Ghana Empire, symbolizing strength and heritage.

2. Swaziland → Eswatini (2018) 🇸🇿
King Mswati III announced the change to Eswatini, meaning “Land of the Swazis” in the local language, to break from colonial naming and affirm national identity.

3. Ivory Coast → Côte d’Ivoire (1986) 🇨🇮
The country officially requested to be called Côte d’Ivoire in French, its official language, to preserve its authenticity and discourage translation into other languages.

4. Tanganyika & Zanzibar → Tanzania (1964) 🇹🇿
After uniting, the two states merged their names into Tanzania, reflecting a new national unity while respecting their histories.

5. Upper Volta → Burkina Faso (1984) 🇧🇫
Under President Thomas Sankara, the country was renamed Burkina Faso, meaning “Land of Upright People” in local languages, symbolizing integrity and pride.

6. Southern Rhodesia → Zimbabwe (1980) 🇿🇼
Upon independence from colonial rule, Zimbabwe was chosen, derived from the Shona term “Dzimba-dza-mabwe” (House of Stone), referring to the historic Great Zimbabwe ruins.

7. Northern Rhodesia → Zambia (1964) 🇿🇲
Gaining independence, the country adopted the name Zambia, inspired by the Zambezi River, a symbol of life and unity.

8. Zaire → Democratic Republic of Congo (1997) 🇨🇩
After the fall of Mobutu Sese Seko, the country dropped Zaire (a Portuguese corruption of a local word) and reverted to its original name, Democratic Republic of Congo.

9. Dahomey Republic → Benin Republic (1975) 🇧🇯
To foster unity beyond ethnic lines, the country adopted the name Benin, referencing the historic Benin Kingdom and the Bight of Benin.

Renaming a powerful act of reclaiming African identity, shedding colonial legacies, and celebrating indigenous heritage.