The national anthem of Zimbabwe is called: « Simudzai Mureza wedu WeZimbabwe ».
Continent: Africa
Bordering Countries:
– 🇧🇼 Botswana
– 🇲🇿 Mozambique
– 🇿🇦 South Africa
– 🇿🇲 Zambia
History of « Simudzai Mureza wedu WeZimbabwe »
« Simudzai Mureza wedu WeZimbabwe » (Lift High the Banner of Zimbabwe) is the national anthem of Zimbabwe. The anthem reflects the country’s rich cultural heritage, its journey to independence, and the unity of its people.
Key Dates and People
- 1994: The lyrics of the anthem were written by Professor Solomon Mutswairo, a renowned Zimbabwean poet and novelist. The music was composed by Fred Changundega. The anthem was officially adopted in March 1994, replacing the previous anthem « Ishe Komborera Africa. »
Anecdotes
- National Competition: The adoption of « Simudzai Mureza wedu WeZimbabwe » followed a national competition to find a new anthem that would better reflect the country’s identity and aspirations. The competition was open to all Zimbabweans, and the winning entry was selected by a panel of judges.
- Composer’s Legacy: Fred Changundega, the composer, played a significant role in shaping the musical identity of Zimbabwe. His composition for the anthem is considered one of his most significant works and has left a lasting legacy in Zimbabwean music.
- Lyricist’s Contribution: Professor Solomon Mutswairo, the lyricist, infused the anthem with a deep sense of patriotism and reverence for the Zimbabwean homeland. His words reflect the aspirations and pride of the Zimbabwean people.
- Cultural Significance: The anthem is performed at national celebrations, official ceremonies, and sporting events, reinforcing its role in uniting the Zimbabwean people and celebrating their heritage. The anthem’s stirring lyrics and melody inspire a sense of unity and pride among the people of Zimbabwe.
Full Lyrics
In Shona
Simudzai mureza wedu weZimbabwe
Yakazvarwa nemoto wechimurenga;
Neropa zhinji ramagamba
Tiidzivirire kumhandu dzose;
Ngaikomborerwe nyika yeZimbabwe.
Tarisai Zimbabwe nyika yakashongedzwa
Namakomo, nehova, zvinoyevedza
Mvura ngainaye, minda ipe mbesa,
Vashandi vatuswe, ruzhinji rugutswe;
Ngaikomborerwe nyika yeZimbabwe.
Mwari ropafadzai nyika yeZimbabwe,
Nyika yamadzitateguru edu tose;
Kubva Zambezi kusvika Limpopo,
Navatungamiri vave nenduramo;
Ngaikomborerwe nyika yeZimbabwe.In Ndebele
Phakamisan' iflegi yethu yeZimbabwe
Eyazalwa yimpi yenkululeko;
Legaz' elinengi lamaqhawe ethu
Silivikele ezitheni zonke;
Kalibusis' ilizwe leZimbabwe.
Khangelani iZimbabwe yon' ihlotshiwe
Ngezintaba lang' miful' ebukekayo
Izulu kaline, izilimo zande;
Iz' sebenzi zenam', abantu basuthe;
Kalibusis' ilizwe leZimbabwe.
Nkosi busis' ilizwe lethu leZimbabwe
Ilizwe labokhokho bethu thina sonke;
Kusuk' eZambezi kusiy' eLimpopo
Abakhokheli babe lobuqotho;
Kalibusis' ilizwe leZimbabwe.In English
O lift high the banner, the flag of Zimbabwe
The symbol of freedom proclaiming victory;
We praise our heroes' sacrifice,
And vow to keep our land from foes;
And may the Almighty protect and bless our land.
O lovely Zimbabwe, so wondrously adorned
With mountains, and rivers cascading, flowing free;
May rain abound, and fields be fertile,
May we be fed, our labour blessed;
And may the Almighty protect and bless our land.
O God, we beseech Thee to bless our native land,
The land of our fathers bestowed upon us all;
From Zambezi to Limpopo
May leaders be exemplary;
And may the Almighty protect and bless our land.Sources: