Home βΊ Baby Names Directory βΊ Sekou
Sekou
Pronounced SAY-koo /ΛseΙͺ.ku/Medium
Meaning: From Mandinka/West African Sekou β linked to Arabic shaykh, 'learned one, elder', or 'fighter'; routes layeredMedium
Popularity in the U.S. Β· SSA data
U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880βpresent). Pink marker = peak year.
SSA data updated May 2026. How we source & verify this data.
History & Origin
Sekou comes from Mandinka and broader West African use β linked to Arabic shaykh, 'learned one, elder', and sometimes glossed 'fighter' (routes layered, which we note). Borne by leader Sekou Toure, it's a dignified, proud name across West Africa.
In the U.S. it appears in West African and African American families. Rare, learned-one at the (likely) root, and dignified.
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Frequently Asked
What does the name Sekou mean?
Sekou is West African (from Arabic shaykh) for 'learned one, elder', sometimes 'fighter'; the routes are layered.
How do you pronounce Sekou?
It's said SAY-koo /ΛseΙͺ.ku/ β two syllables, stress on the first.
Is Sekou a boy or girl name?
Sekou is a boy's name.
How popular is Sekou?
Sekou is a rare name in the U.S.