Naming by Reference: A Socio-Semantic Analysis of Selected Namwanga Personal Names

Abstract

This study investigated the meanings and socio-cultural implications of selected Namwanga personal names.It sought to establish the kind of naming system that the Namwanga use in giving names, identify the meanings of selected Namwanga personal names, and determine the socio-cultural implications of the names.The qualitative approach was used to collect data through semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with the study population in order to collect primary data.Purposive sampling technique was employed with participants who were considered sufficiently knowledgeable in the Namawanga language to provide an accurate explanation of the data.Secondary data was obtained from existing Namwanga literature including school and village registers.Using the unified theory of names, generated data was analysed and thereafter names grouped according to their themes.Findings showed that, among the Namwanga people, the first name is bestowed on a child either before or after the detachment of the umbilical cord.The bestowal of first names is determined by several factors including events or circumstances surrounding a child"s birth such as ethical and social values; child"s place; period; order and manner of birth; death; fertility; expression of social caution and conflict; modern innovations; religion; as well as connotations of love, hope, requests, and consolation.Concerning the findings, it was deduced that personal names in Namwanga speech communities go beyond being mere personal labels, to expressions and stories that mark the various socio-psychological milestones and circumstances surrounding the birth of a child to be named.This in turn makes personal names an integral meaningful part of the Namwanga cultural heritage which should be explored by scholars.

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