The national anthem of Malawi is called: « Mlungu dalitsani Malawi ».
Continent: Africa
Bordering Countries:
– 🇲🇿 Mozambique
– 🇹🇿 Tanzania (United Republic of)
– 🇿🇲 Zambia
History of « Mlungu dalitsani Malawi »
« Mlungu dalitsani Malawi » (O God Bless Our Land of Malawi) is the national anthem of Malawi. The anthem reflects the country’s rich cultural heritage, its journey to independence, and the unity of its people.
Key Dates and People
- 1964: The lyrics of the anthem were written by Michael-Fredrick Paul Sauka, a Malawian composer and teacher. The music was also composed by Michael-Fredrick Paul Sauka. The anthem was officially adopted on July 6, 1964, the same day Malawi gained independence from British colonial rule.
Anecdotes
- Independence Celebration: « Mlungu dalitsani Malawi » was first performed during the independence celebrations on July 6, 1964. The anthem marked a significant moment in the history of Malawi, symbolizing the country’s newfound sovereignty and national pride.
- Composer’s Legacy: Michael-Fredrick Paul Sauka, the composer and lyricist, played a significant role in shaping the musical identity of Malawi. His composition for the anthem is considered one of his most significant works.
- Cultural Significance: The anthem is performed at national celebrations, official ceremonies, and sporting events, reinforcing its role in uniting the Malawian people and celebrating their heritage. The anthem’s stirring lyrics and melody inspire a sense of unity and pride among the people of Malawi.
- Symbol of Unity: The lyrics of the anthem emphasize unity, peace, and progress, reflecting the aspirations of the Malawian people as they embarked on their journey as an independent nation.
Full Lyrics
In Chichewa
Mlungu dalitsani Malaŵi,
Mumsunge m'mtendere.
Gonjetsani adani onse,Njala, nthenda, nsanje.
Lunzitsani mitima yathu,
Kuti tisaope.
Mdalitse Mtsogoleri nafe,
Ndi Mayi Malaŵi.
Malaŵi ndziko lokongola,
La chonde ndi ufulu,
Nyanja ndi mphepo ya m'mapiri,
Ndithudi tadala.
Zigwa, mapiri, nthaka, dzinthu,
N'mphatso zaulere.
Nkhalango, madambo abwino.
Ngwokoma Malaŵi.
O Ufulu tigwirizane,
Kukweza Malaŵi.
Ndi chikondi, khama, kumvera,
Timutumikire.
Pa nkhondo nkana pa mtendere,
Cholinga n'chimodzi.
Mayi, bambo, tidzipereke,
Pokweza Malaŵi..Translated in English
O God bless our land of Malawi,
Keep it a land of peace.
Put down each and every enemy,
Hunger, disease, envy.
Join together all our hearts as one,
That we be free from fear.
Bless our leader, each and every one,
And Mother Malawi.
Our own Malawi, this land so fair,
Fertile and brave and free.
With its lakes, refreshing mountain air,
How greatly blest are we.
Hills and valleys, soil so rich and rare
Give us a bounty free.
Wood and forest, plains so broad and fair,
All - beauteous Malawi.
Freedom ever, let us all unite
To build up Malawi.
With our love, our zeal and loyalty,
Bringing our best to her.
In time of war, or in time of peace,
One purpose and one goal.
Men and women serving selflessly
In building Malawi.Sources: