The national anthem of Lesotho is called: « Lesotho Fatše La Bo-ntata Rona ».
Continent: Africa
Bordering Countries:
– 🇿🇦 South Africa
History of « Lesotho Fatše La Bo-ntata Rona »
« Lesotho Fatše La Bo-ntata Rona » (Lesotho, Land of Our Fathers) is the national anthem of Lesotho. The anthem reflects the country’s rich cultural heritage, its journey to independence, and the unity of its people.
Key Dates and People
- 1967: The lyrics of the anthem were written by François Coillard, a French missionary. The music was composed by Ferdinand-Samuel Laur, a Swiss-French missionary. The anthem was officially adopted in 1967, a year after Lesotho gained independence from British colonial rule on October 4, 1966.
Anecdotes
- Missionary Influence: François Coillard and Ferdinand-Samuel Laur were missionaries who played significant roles in the cultural and educational development of Lesotho. Their contributions to the anthem are a testament to the historical ties between Lesotho and European missionaries.
- Independence Celebration: « Lesotho Fatše La Bo-ntata Rona » was first performed during the independence celebrations in 1966. The anthem marked a significant moment in the history of Lesotho, symbolizing the country’s newfound sovereignty and national pride.
- Cultural Significance: The anthem is performed at national celebrations, official ceremonies, and sporting events, reinforcing its role in uniting the Basotho people and celebrating their heritage. The anthem’s stirring lyrics and melody inspire a sense of unity and pride among the people of Lesotho.
- Symbol of Unity: The lyrics of the anthem emphasize unity, peace, and progress, reflecting the aspirations of the Basotho people as they embarked on their journey as an independent nation.
Full Lyrics
In Sesotho
Lesotho fatše la bo-ntata rona;
Ha ra mafatše le letle ke lona;
Ke moo re hlahileng,
Ke moo re holileng,
Rea le rata.
Molimo ak'u boloke Lesotho;
U felise lintoa le matšoenyeho;
Oho fatše lena
La bo-ntata rona
Le be le khotso.Translated in English
Lesotho, land of our fathers;
Among the lands, it is the most beautiful;
It is where we were born,
It is where we grew up,
We love it.
God, please protect Lesotho;
Spare it from wars and troubles;
Oh, this land
Of our fathers
May it have peace.Sources: