National Anthems of the World

Lyrics, history and anecdotes

🇿🇦 South Africa

The national anthem of South Africa has no dedicated name.

Continent: Africa

Bordering Countries:
– 🇧🇼 Botswana
– 🇸🇿 Eswatini (Swaziland)
– 🇱🇸 Lesotho
– 🇲🇿 Mozambique
– 🇳🇦 Namibia
– 🇿🇼 Zimbabwe

History of « National Anthem of South Africa »

The national anthem of South Africa is a unique composition that combines parts of two anthems: « Nkosi Sikelel’ iAfrika » and « Die Stem van Suid-Afrika. » This blend reflects the country’s rich cultural heritage, its journey to democracy, and the unity of its people.

Key Dates and People

  • 1897: « Nkosi Sikelel’ iAfrika » was composed by Enoch Sontonga, a Xhosa clergyman and poet. It became a pan-African liberation anthem.
  • 1921: « Die Stem van Suid-Afrika » was written by C.J. Langenhoven, a South African poet, and the music was composed by Marthinus Lourens de Villiers.
  • 1997: The current national anthem, which combines elements of both « Nkosi Sikelel’ iAfrika » and « Die Stem van Suid-Afrika, » was officially adopted on October 10, 1997.

Anecdotes

  • Symbol of Unity: The combination of « Nkosi Sikelel’ iAfrika » and « Die Stem van Suid-Afrika » into a single anthem symbolizes the unity and reconciliation of the diverse cultures and histories within South Africa. It represents the country’s commitment to moving forward together as one nation.
  • Multilingual Anthem: The anthem is unique in that it is sung in five of South Africa’s eleven official languages: Xhosa, Zulu, Sesotho, Afrikaans, and English. This multilingual approach reflects the country’s linguistic diversity and inclusivity.
  • Historical Significance: « Nkosi Sikelel’ iAfrika » was originally a hymn and became a powerful symbol of resistance against apartheid. « Die Stem van Suid-Afrika » was the official anthem during the apartheid era. The merging of these two anthems represents the country’s transition from a divided past to a unified future.
  • Cultural Impact: The anthem is performed at national celebrations, official ceremonies, and sporting events, reinforcing its role in uniting the South African people and celebrating their heritage. The anthem’s stirring lyrics and melody inspire a sense of unity and pride among the people of South Africa.

Full Lyrics

In Multiple Languages

Nkosi sikelel' iAfrika
Maluphakanyisw' uphondo lwayo,
Yizwa imithandazo yethu,
Nkosi sikelela, thina lusapho lwayo.

Morena boloka setjhaba sa heso,
O fedise dintwa le matshwenyeho,
O se boloke, O se boloke setjhaba sa heso,
Setjhaba sa South Afrika - South Afrika.

Uit die blou van onse hemel,
Uit die diepte van ons see,
Oor ons ewige gebergtes,
Waar die kranse antwoord gee,

Sounds the call to come together,
And united we shall stand,
Let us live and strive for freedom,
In South Africa our land.

Translated in English

Lord bless Africa
May her glory be lifted high,
Hear our prayers,
Lord bless us, your children.

Lord, we ask You to protect our nation,
Intervene and end all conflicts,
Protect us, protect our nation,
Our nation South Africa - South Africa.

Ringing out from our blue heavens,
From the depths of our seas,
Over our everlasting mountains,
Where the echoing crags resound,

Sounds the call to come together,
And united we shall stand,
Let us live and strive for freedom,
In South Africa our land.

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