By Milcah Tanimu
Many African countries still carry names bestowed upon them by colonial powers. However, several have embraced new names that reflect their cultural heritage and independence. Here are seven African countries that have renamed themselves after colonialism:
1. Botswana
Formerly known as Bechuanaland, Botswana adopted its current name after gaining independence in 1966. The name “Botswana” pays tribute to the Tswana people, the country’s majority ethnic group.
2.Burkina Faso
Before gaining independence from France in 1960, Burkina Faso was known as Haute-Volta or the Republic of Upper Volta. In 1984, it became Burkina Faso, which means “the land of upright and honest people.”
3. Zimbabwe and Zambia
Both countries were once part of the British protectorate known as Rhodesia, named after Cecil John Rhodes. Northern Rhodesia became Zambia in 1964, while Southern Rhodesia became Zimbabwe in 1980, dropping the Rhodesia name in favor of a title that honors the historic Great Zimbabwe.
4. Eswatini
In 2018, Swaziland was officially renamed the Kingdom of Eswatini. Although King Mswati III had referred to it as Eswatini since 2014, the formal announcement coincided with the country’s 50th Independence Day celebration, symbolizing a departure from its colonial past and avoiding confusion with Switzerland.
5. Mozambique
Formerly known as Portuguese East Africa until 1975, Mozambique derives its name from “Musa Al Bik,” a notable Arab trader from the island of Mozambique during early trade routes.
6. **Mali**
During colonial rule, Mali was referred to as French Sudan, part of the French West Africa federation. After gaining independence in 1960, it briefly formed a federation with Senegal before becoming the Republic of Mali, named after the historic Mali Empire.
Renaming these countries reflects a broader effort across Africa to reclaim identity and heritage after a long history of colonialism.
