Kofi is an Akan masculine given name used among the Akan people of Ghana, including the Bono, Akyem, Akwamu, Ashanti, and Fante subgroups. It means "born on Friday," reflecting the Akan day-naming tradition where a child is given a name based on the day of the week they were born. Traditionally, this name is assigned to a boy during the Outdooring ceremony, which takes place eight days after birth. Etymology and Cultural Significance In Akan culture, day names are believed to derive from deities. Kofi originates from Kwaofida, associated with the Lord of life's home deity of Friday. The name has the appellation "Kyini," "Otuo," and "Ntiful," which mean "wanderer" and "traveller." According to Akan tradition, people born on certain days exhibit specific characteristics; those named Kofi are thought to be adventurers, indecisive yet highly motivated and competent. Notable Bearers Prominent individuals named Kofi include Kofi Annan, the Ghanaian diplomat who served as the seventh Secretary-General of the United Nations from 1997 to 2006 and was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2001. Others include Kofi Kingston, a Ghanaian-American professional wrestler; Kofi Siriboe, an American actor; and Kofi Awoonor, a Ghanaian poet and author. In the realm of politics, Kofi Abrefa Busia served as Prime Minister of Ghana from 1969 to 1972, and Kofi Bentsi-Enchill was a Ghanaian Supreme Court judge. Musician Kofi B. is known for his highlife music, while independence activist Kofi Baako was a prominent figure in Ghana's liberation movement. Variants The name has spelling variants among Akan subgroups. The related name Koffi is used among the Ewe people. Other day names in the Akan tradition include Kwasi (Sunday), Kwadwo (Monday), Kwabena (Tuesday), Kwaku (Wednesday), Yaw (Thursday), Kwame (Saturday), and more. Meaning: "Born on Friday" Origin: Akan (Ghana) Type: First name (masculine) Usage regions: Ghana, diaspora Variant forms: Koffi (Ewe)