ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Naming conventions in Ethiopia and Eritrea

Okay, let me try to explain this to you like you're 5 years old.

In Ethiopia and Eritrea, people have unique names that help identify them from one another. Naming conventions are special rules that people follow to give names to their children.

In these countries, people usually have three names: their first, middle, and last name. The first name is usually the child's given name and it is chosen by their parents. The middle name is often the child's father's name and the last name is the family name.

For example, let's say a child's name is Selamawit Tekle Gebremariam. Selamawit is her given name, Tekle is her father's name, and Gebremariam is her family name.

Now, sometimes people have nicknames or additional names that are used in addition to their given name. For example, someone named Tekle might also be called "Tek" by their friends and family.

It's important to follow naming conventions because it helps people understand who someone is and where they come from. In Ethiopia and Eritrea, family and community are very important, so having a clear naming convention helps people feel connected and recognized.

Overall, naming conventions are a special way that people in Ethiopia and Eritrea give meaningful names to their children and help connect them to their families and communities.