The national anthem of Rwanda is called: « Rwanda Nziza ».
Continent: Africa
Bordering Countries:
– 🇧🇮 Burundi
– 🇨🇩 Congo (Democratic Republic of)
– 🇹🇿 Tanzania (United Republic of)
– 🇺🇬 Uganda
History of « Rwanda Nziza »
« Rwanda Nziza » (Beautiful Rwanda) is the national anthem of Rwanda. The anthem reflects the country’s rich cultural heritage, its journey to independence, and the unity of its people.
Key Dates and People
- 2001: The lyrics of the anthem were written by Faustin Murigo, a Rwandan poet. The music was composed by Jean-Bosco Hashakaimana, a Rwandan musician. The anthem was officially adopted on January 1, 2002, replacing the previous anthem « Rwanda Rwacu. »
Anecdotes
- Post-Genocide Era: The adoption of « Rwanda Nziza » came in the post-genocide era, symbolizing a new beginning and the country’s commitment to unity and reconciliation. The anthem was part of broader efforts to rebuild national identity and foster a sense of collective pride.
- Composer’s Legacy: Jean-Bosco Hashakaimana, the composer, played a significant role in shaping the musical identity of Rwanda. His composition for the anthem is considered one of his most significant works.
- Lyricist’s Contribution: Faustin Murigo, the lyricist, infused the anthem with a deep sense of patriotism and reverence for the Rwandan homeland. His words reflect the aspirations and pride of the Rwandan people.
- Cultural Significance: The anthem is performed at national celebrations, official ceremonies, and sporting events, reinforcing its role in uniting the Rwandan people and celebrating their heritage. The anthem’s stirring lyrics and melody inspire a sense of unity and pride among the people of Rwanda.
Full Lyrics
In Kinyarwanda
Rwanda nziza Gihugu cyacu
Wuje imisozi, ibiyaga n'ibirunga
Ngobyi iduhetse gahorane ishya.
Reka tukurate tukuvuge ibigwi
Wowe utubumbiye hamwe twese
Abanyarwanda uko watubyaye
Berwa, sugira, singizwa iteka.
Horana Imana, murage mwiza
Ibyo tugukesha ntibishyikirwa;
Umuco dusangiye uraturanga
Ururimi rwacu rukaduhuza
Ubwenge, umutima,amaboko yacu
Nibigukungahaze bikwiye
Nuko utere imbere ubutitsa.
Abakurambere b'intwari
Bitanze batizigama
Baraguhanga uvamo ubukombe
Utsinda ubukoroni na mpatsibihugu
Byayogoje Afurika yose
None uraganje mu bwigenge
Tubukomeyeho uko turi twese.
Komeza imihigo Rwanda dukunda
Duhagurukiye kukwitangira
Ngo amahoro asabe mu bagutuye
Wishyire wizane muri byose
Urangwe n'ishyaka, utere imbere
Uhamye umubano n'amahanga yose
Maze ijabo ryawe riguhe ijambo.Translated in English
Beautiful Rwanda, our country
Full of mountains, lakes, and volcanoes
Motherland that carries us, may you always be blessed.
Let us praise you and speak of your glory
You who brought us together and made us Rwandans
May you live long and always be honored.
Have God, a good heritage
What we owe you is incomparable;
Our shared culture identifies us
Our language unites us
Our intelligence, our hearts, our hands
May they always enrich you
So that you may prosper continuously.
Our brave ancestors
Gave themselves without reservation
They created you and made you great
You defeated colonialism and imperialism
That devastated all of Africa
Now you are sovereign in independence
We all hold on to it firmly.
Continue your achievements, beloved Rwanda
We are determined to defend you
So that peace may reign among your people
May you be free in everything
Be characterized by zeal, progress
Maintain good relations with all nations
And may your prestige give you a voice.Sources: