The national anthem of Eswatini is called: « Nkulunkulu Mnikati wetibusiso temaSwati ».
Continent: Africa
Bordering Countries:
– 🇲🇿 Mozambique
– 🇿🇦 South Africa
History of « Nkulunkulu Mnikati wetibusiso temaSwati »
« Nkulunkulu Mnikati wetibusiso temaSwati » (O Lord, Bless the Nation of Swazis) is the national anthem of Eswatini. The anthem reflects the country’s rich cultural heritage, its journey to independence, and the unity of its people.
Key Dates and People
- 1968: The lyrics of the anthem were written by Fanyana Simelane, a Swazi composer and musician. The music was composed by David Kenneth Rycroft, a British-Swazi ethnomusicologist. The anthem was officially adopted in 1968, the same year Eswatini (then Swaziland) gained independence from British colonial rule on September 6, 1968.
Anecdotes
- Independence Celebration: « Nkulunkulu Mnikati wetibusiso temaSwati » was first performed during the celebrations of Eswatini’s independence on September 6, 1968. The anthem marked a significant moment in the history of Eswatini, symbolizing the country’s newfound sovereignty and national pride.
- Composer’s Legacy: David Kenneth Rycroft, the composer, was a significant figure in the study and preservation of African music. His collaboration with Fanyana Simelane resulted in a composition that is both culturally resonant and musically rich.
- Lyricist’s Contribution: Fanyana Simelane, the lyricist, infused the anthem with a deep sense of patriotism and reverence for the Swazi homeland. His words reflect the aspirations and pride of the Swazi people.
- Cultural Significance: The anthem is performed at national celebrations, official ceremonies, and sporting events, reinforcing its role in uniting the Swazi people and celebrating their heritage. The anthem’s stirring lyrics and melody inspire a sense of unity and pride among the people of Eswatini.
Full Lyrics
In Swazi
Nkulunkulu Mnikati wetibusiso temaSwati;
Siyatibonga tonkhe tinhlanhla;
Sibonga iNgwenyama yetfu.
Live netintsaba nemifula.
Busisa tiphatsimandla takaNgwane;
Nguwe wedvwa Somandla wetfu;
Sinike kuhlakanipha lokungenabucili;
Simise usicinise, Simakadze.Translated in English
O Lord, bless the nation of Swazis;
We give Thee thanks for all our good fortune;
We thank Thee for our good fortune.
We give Thee thanks for our King.
And for our fair land, its hills and rivers;
Thy blessings be on all rulers of our country;
Thine alone is our Lord;
We pray Thee to grant us wisdom without deceit or malice.
Establish and fortify us, Lord Eternal.Sources: