Before the continent was named Africa by Europeans, it was known by several ancient names, many of which reflected its cultural, spiritual, and geographical richness. The name " Africa" as we know it today was popularized during Roman times, but long before European contact, the indigenous people and ancient civilizations had their own names for the land.

One of the most well- known early names for Africa is Alkebulan (sometimes spelled Al- Kebulan). This name is believed to be of indigenous origin, and it means " Mother of Mankind" or " Garden of Eden" in some interpretations. Alkebulan is considered by many historians and scholars to be one of the oldest known names for the continent. It reflects the understanding that Africa is the birthplace of humanity and civilization— a fact supported by modern archaeological and genetic studies.

The name Alkebulan was used by various African peoples and scholars long before the Greeks or Romans coined the term " Africa. " It represents the dignity, identity, and depth of the continent, free from foreign labels. Some Islamic scholars in North Africa also referred to parts of the continent with names rooted in Arabic, such as Bilad al- Sudan, meaning " Land of the Blacks, " referring to the regions south of the Sahara.