- Some African nations took steps to change their names, reflecting their journey from colonial rule to independence and self-identity
- Ghana was the first sub-Saharan African country to gain independence, transitioning from Gold Coast to a name honouring its ancient empire
- TheRadar compiled seven of the African countries that changed their names after independence
Many African nations were named by colonial rulers like the British, French, Portuguese, Italians, and Dutch, reflecting centuries of colonisation, and foreign aggression in Africa's history.
During this time, Africa’s vast territories were divided along trade routes and economic regions. The continent was divided into areas known as the Pepper Coast, Ivory Coast, Gold Coast, and Slave Coast, each named for the valuable commodities extracted by the colonial rulers.
However, after gaining independence, many African countries changed their names to reflect their autonomy, eliminate colonial legacy, or align with the political and cultural values of their new governments.
African countries that changed names
Here are seven African nations that took this significant step and changed their names:
1. Gold Coast to Ghana
Ghana, previously known as the Gold Coast, was the first sub-Saharan African country to gain independence from colonial rule in 1957. The name "Gold Coast" was given by European traders and colonisers due to the region's gold abundance.
The name "Ghana" was chosen to honour the ancient Ghana Empire, which existed centuries before European colonisation.
2. Dahomey to Benin
Benin, previously known as Dahomey, officially adopted its new name in 1975 after gaining independence from French colonial rule in 1960. The name "Dahomey" was derived from the powerful kingdom that thrived in the region from the 17th to the 19th centuries, known for its rich culture, trade, and military prowess.
The name "Benin" was derived from the Benin River, which flows into the Atlantic Ocean and has historical significance as a trade route.
3. Bechuanaland to Botswana
Formerly a British colony named Bechuanaland, Botswana, gained independence from British colonial rule in 1966. The name "Bechuanaland" was given by the British and reflected the territory's association with the Tswana people, who inhabit the region.
Following independence, it became known as Botswana, a name that reflects its largest ethnic group, the "Tswana," and emphasises its cultural heritage.
4. Zaire to the Democratic Republic of Congo
The Democratic Republic of Congo became independent in 1960, taking the name “Republic of Congo” after the Congo River. From 1965 to 1971, it was designated as the “Democratic Republic of the Congo,” before President Mobutu Sese Seko changed it to the “Republic of Zaire.”
Although a 1992 agreement by the Sovereign National Congress sought to restore the name “Democratic Republic of the Congo,” it remained Zaire until the late 1970s following Mobutu's downfall.
5. Rhodesia to Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe, previously known as Rhodesia, gained its independence from British colonial rule in 1980 after a prolonged liberation struggle. The name "Rhodesia" was derived from Cecil Rhodes, a British coloniser. The name Zimbabwe honours the values that its people hold dear.
6. Nyasaland to Malawi
Established as a British protectorate in 1889, this African territory adopted the name “Nyasaland” by 1907. The country was renamed in 1964, the same year it became an independent nation, marking a significant transition from colonial rule to self-governance.
The name "Malawi" translates to "flaming waters," a reference to the shimmering waters of Lake Malawi.
7. Upper Volta to Burkina Faso
President Thomas Sankara renamed Upper Volta to Burkina Faso in August 1984. He selected the names “Faso” and “Burkina” from the two primary languages of the country.
The name Upper Volta was given by French colonial rulers, named after the Volta River that flows through the land. In Dyula, Faso translates as “fatherland,” and Burkina means “honest people” in Moore. Combined, they express the idea of “Land of the Honest People.”
Nigeria at 64: 16 West African countries and their Independence dates
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that European countries, including the United Kingdom, France, and Portugal, colonised the West African countries.
As Nigeria celebrated its 64th year of independence, TheRadar compiled a list of the West African countries and their independence dates.