The national anthem of Kiribati is called: « Teirake Kaini Kiribati ».

Continent: Oceania

In the same continent: 🇦🇺 Australia, 🇫🇯 Fiji, 🇲🇭 Marshall Islands, 🇫🇲 Micronesia (Federated States of), 🇳🇷 Nauru, 🇳🇿 New Zealand, 🇵🇼 Palau, 🇵🇬 Papua New Guinea, 🇼🇸 Samoa, 🇸🇧 Solomon Islands, 🇹🇴 Tonga, 🇹🇻 Tuvalu, 🇻🇺 Vanuatu

History of « Teirake Kaini Kiribati »

« Teirake Kaini Kiribati » (Stand Up, Kiribati) is the national anthem of Kiribati. The anthem reflects the country’s rich cultural heritage, its journey to independence, and the unity of its people.

Key Dates and People

• 1979: The lyrics and music for « Teirake Kaini Kiribati » were composed by Ioteba Tamuera Uriam, a Kiribati composer and teacher.
• 1979: The anthem was officially adopted on July 12, 1979, coinciding with Kiribati’s declaration of independence from British colonial rule.

Anecdotes

• Independence Celebration: « Teirake Kaini Kiribati » was first performed during the independence celebrations on July 12, 1979. The anthem marked a significant moment in the history of Kiribati, symbolizing the country’s newfound sovereignty and national pride.
• Composer’s Legacy: Ioteba Tamuera Uriam, the composer of the anthem, is celebrated for his contributions to the music and culture of Kiribati. His composition for the anthem is considered one of his most significant works, reflecting the spirit and resilience of the Kiribati people.
• Cultural Significance: « Teirake Kaini Kiribati » is performed at national celebrations, official ceremonies, and sporting events, reinforcing its role in uniting the people of Kiribati and celebrating their heritage. The anthem’s stirring lyrics and melody inspire a sense of unity and pride among the citizens.

Lyrics Excerpt

In Gilbertese

Teirake kaaini Kiribati,
Anene ma te kakatonga,
Tauraoi nakon te mwioko,
Ma ni buokia aomata.
Tauaninne nte raoiroi,
Tangiria aomata.
Kaineti ma ni buraki
Ibuakoia ngkoe naeta.

Reken te kabaia ma te rau,
Ion te kabwaia ma te rau,
Tauraoi nakon te rau,
Ma ni buokia aomata.
Tauaninne nte raoiroi,
Tangiria aomata.
Kaineti ma ni buraki
Ibuakoia ngkoe naeta.

Translated in English

Stand up, Kiribati,
Sing with jubilation,
Prepare to accept responsibility
And to help each other!
Be steadfastly righteous,
Love all people,
Be steadfastly righteous,
Love all people.

The attainment of contentment
And peace by our people
Will be achieved when all our hearts beat as one,
Love all people,
Be steadfastly righteous,
Love all people,
Be steadfastly righteous,
Love all people.