The national anthem of Gabon is called: « La Concorde ».
Continent: Africa
Bordering Countries:
– 🇨🇲 Cameroon
– 🇨🇬 Congo
– 🇬🇶 Equatorial Guinea
History of « La Concorde »
« La Concorde » (The Concord) is the national anthem of Gabon. The anthem reflects the country’s rich cultural heritage, its journey to independence, and the unity of its people.
Key Dates and People
- 1960: The lyrics of the anthem were written by Georges Aleka Damas, a Gabonese politician and writer. The music was composed by Georges Aleka Damas as well. The anthem was officially adopted on August 9, 1960, shortly before Gabon gained independence from French colonial rule on August 17, 1960.
Anecdotes
- Independence Celebration: « La Concorde » was first performed during the independence celebrations on August 17, 1960. The anthem marked a significant moment in the history of Gabon, symbolizing the country’s newfound sovereignty and national pride.
- Composer’s Legacy: Georges Aleka Damas, the composer and lyricist, played a crucial role in the country’s independence movement. His contributions to the anthem and the independence struggle are celebrated as part of Gabon’s national heritage.
- Cultural Significance: The anthem is performed at national celebrations, official ceremonies, and sporting events, reinforcing its role in uniting the Gabonese people and celebrating their heritage. The anthem’s stirring lyrics and melody inspire a sense of unity and pride among Gabonese.
- Symbol of Unity: The lyrics of the anthem emphasize unity, peace, and progress, reflecting the aspirations of the Gabonese people as they embarked on their journey as an independent nation.
Lyrics Excerpt
In French
Uni dans la Concorde et la fraternité
Éveille-toi Gabon, une aurore se lève,
Encourage l'ardeur qui vibre et nous soulève!
C'est enfin notre essor vers la félicité.
C'est enfin notre essor vers la félicité.
Éblouissant et fier, le jour sublime monte
Pourchassant à jamais l'injustice et la honte.
Qu'il monte, monte encore et calme nos alarmes,
Qu'il prône la vertu et repousse les armes.
Qu'il prône la vertu et repousse les armes.Translated in English
United in concord and fraternity,
Awake, Gabon, a dawn is rising,
Encourage the fervor that vibrates and lifts us up!
It is finally our rise to happiness.
It is finally our rise to happiness.
Dazzling and proud, the sublime day rises
Forever chasing away injustice and shame.
May it rise, rise again and calm our fears,
May it extol virtue and repel arms.
May it extol virtue and repel arms.Sources: