When people search for Explore With Kojo, one of the first things they often wonder is about my name itself. I see questions pop up on the internet like “Is Kojo a girl or boy?” or “Where does the name Kojo come from?” and even “What day was Kojo born?”. Since so many of you are curious, I thought I’d dedicate this article to answering these questions while also sharing a little of my own story.

Is Kojo a girl or boy?

Kojo is a boy’s name, and it comes from Ghana, where I was born and raised. In my culture, names are not just random; they often carry deep meaning. One of the traditions in Ghana, especially among the Akan people, is to name children after the day of the week they were born.

So if you meet someone called Kojo, you instantly know two things about them:

  1. They are male.

  2. They were born on a Monday.

For girls born on Monday, the name is usually Adwoa. This unique system makes it easy to know a bit about someone just by hearing their name. I’ve always loved carrying the name Kojo because it sparks curiosity everywhere I travel, from Singapore to Dubai. People hear my name, ask what it means. And for me, that’s how conversations and friendships usually begin.

Where does the name Kojo come from?

Like I said earlier, the name Kojo comes from Akan culture in Ghana. The Akan people believe that the day of the week you are born influences your character and destiny. Each day has its own names for boys and girls, and they all come with associated traits.

Here’s a glimpse into how it works:

  • Monday-born males: Kojo (sometimes spelled Kwadwo or Cudjoe)
  • Monday-born females: Adwoa
  • Sunday-born males: Kwesi
  • Sunday-born females: Akosua
  • … and so on for the rest of the week.

Kojo is often associated with calmness and dependability. While I can’t say I’ve always lived up to being calm (especially when I miss a flight), I do like to think I bring some of that dependability into my work and my travels.

When I created Explore With Kojo, I wanted to carry this piece of Ghanaian identity into my brand. So every time you see my channel name, blog, or photos tagged “Explore With Kojo”, you’re also seeing a slice of Ghana’s culture.

What day was Kojo born?

The answer is right in the name – I was born on a Monday. That’s the whole reason I’m called Kojo. This tradition makes birthdays interesting in Ghana. Even before someone tells you the exact date, their name might already reveal the day they were born.

It’s honestly something I’ve always found fascinating, especially when I travel and compare it with other cultures. For example, in many Western countries, names don’t usually have this kind of built-in calendar connection. So when people hear the story of day names from Ghana, they’re always amazed.

No matter where I go in the world, from the markets of Dubai to the hawker centers of Singapore, my name is like a little cultural passport. It carries Ghana with me everywhere.

Aerial view of Koforidua, an Akan town in Ghana’s Eastern Region surrounded by green hills

Koforidua, a historic Akan town in Ghana’s Eastern Region, where traditions like day names are still alive.

Personality Traits of Akan Day Names

In Akan culture, the day names go beyond just being labels into being tied to personality traits and expectations. Here’s what each one represents:

Sunday (Male: Kwesi, Akwasi, Kwame | Female: Akosua)

Sunday-born children are believed to be leaders, creative, and bright in spirit. They are often seen as adventurous and full of energy.

Monday (Male: Kojo, Kwadwo, Cudjoe | Female: Adwoa)

Monday-borns are known for being calm, peace-loving, and dependable. They are often thoughtful and steady, bringing balance to situations.

Tuesday (Male: Kwabena | Female: Abena)

Tuesday-borns are considered bold, strong-willed, and highly active. They have a fiery personality and are often natural problem-solvers.

Wednesday (Male: Kwaku | Female: Akua)

Those born on Wednesday are associated with adaptability, intelligence, and flexibility. They can adjust quickly to new environments, making them excellent travelers and thinkers.

Thursday (Male: Yaw | Female: Yaa)

Thursday-borns are said to be courageous, honest, and direct. They have strong convictions and are not afraid to speak their minds.

Friday (Male: Kofi | Female: Afia)

Friday-borns are generally outgoing, adventurous, and fun-loving. They are the social ones who bring energy and laughter into any group.

Saturday (Male: Kwame | Female: Ama)

Saturday-borns are believed to be strong, ambitious, and resilient. They are often natural leaders who take responsibility seriously.