This photography exhibition by Amani Creatives, titled “Fumbo – African Names and Meanings”, explores the rich naming traditions of African communities living in Greater Manchester and the North West of England. Kooj worked as a representative of Crossing Footprints as the narrative editor and advisor for the project, it was exhibited at Manchester Central Library during November 2025.
Introductory information about the project is as follows:
Names carry deep meanings. They embody, symbolise and evoke stories of ancestry, hope, resilience, and the spirit of community. In African cultures, naming is a sacred tradition which weaves together ceremonies, celebrations and wisdom passed through generations. This photography exhibition explores the rich naming traditions of African communities living in Greater Manchester and the North West of England. Through portraits, personal stories and proverbs linked to names, we celebrate the profound cultural significance behind the names that shape our identities, honour our memories and keep our heritage alive.
We salute the contribution of Congolese, Ivorian/Beninese, Kenyan, Malawian, South African/Eswatini, Ghanian, Moroccan, Nigerian, Ethiopian, Zimbabwean, Cameroonian and Eritrean communities to the arts and culture of the African Diaspora in the Northwest of England. An exhibition produced by Amani Creatives CIC in collaboration with the Musée National De La République Démocratique Du Congo (MNRDC). Financially supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, with thanks to National Lottery players.
Key people involved in Fumbo African Names and Meanings:
Curator and Producer – Emmanuela Yogolelo
Co-writer – Prof Henry Bundjoko Banyata
Editor – Kooj Chuhan
Photography – Aorona Media
Further information about the Fumbo African Names and Meanings project is available at https://amanicreatives.wordpress.com/2026/01/22/fumbo-names-and-traditions-and-meanings/ .
