The national anthem of Nauru is called: « Nauru Bwiema ».
Continent: Oceania
In the same continent: 🇦🇺 Australia, 🇫🇯 Fiji, 🇰🇮 Kiribati, 🇲🇭 Marshall Islands, 🇫🇲 Micronesia (Federated States of), 🇳🇿 New Zealand, 🇵🇼 Palau, 🇵🇬 Papua New Guinea, 🇼🇸 Samoa, 🇸🇧 Solomon Islands, 🇹🇴 Tonga, 🇹🇻 Tuvalu, 🇻🇺 Vanuatu
History of « Nauru Bwiema »
« Nauru Bwiema » (Nauru, Our Homeland) is the national anthem of Nauru. The anthem reflects the country’s rich cultural heritage, its journey to independence, and the unity of its people.
Key Dates and People
- 1968: The lyrics of the anthem were written by Margaret Hendrie, a Nauruan poet.
- 1968: The music was composed by Laurence Henry Hicks, a New Zealand composer.
- 1968: The anthem was officially adopted on January 31, 1968, coinciding with Nauru’s declaration of independence from a joint trusteeship administered by Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom.
Anecdotes
- Independence Celebration: « Nauru Bwiema » was first performed during the independence celebrations on January 31, 1968. The anthem marked a significant moment in the history of Nauru, symbolizing the country’s newfound sovereignty and national pride.
- Composer’s Contribution: Laurence Henry Hicks, the composer, was a prominent figure in the music scene of the Pacific region. His composition for the anthem is considered one of his most significant works, reflecting the spirit and resilience of the Nauruan people.
- Cultural Significance: « Nauru Bwiema » is performed at national celebrations, official ceremonies, and sporting events, reinforcing its role in uniting the Nauruan people and celebrating their heritage. The anthem’s stirring lyrics and melody inspire a sense of unity and pride among Nauruans.
Lyrics Excerpt
In Nauruan
Nauru bwiema, ngabena ma auwe.
Ma dedaro bwe dogin miyan ouge,
Ma nan epodan eredu won engiden,
Miyan aema ngeiyin ouge.
Ma gwaeda, ma nan epodan ouge,
Nauru eko dogin!
Nauru eko dogin!Translated in English
Nauru our homeland, the land we dearly love,
We all pray for you and we also praise your name,
Since long ago you have been the home of our great forefathers
And will be for generations yet to come.
We all join in together to honour your flag,
And we shall rejoice together in victory!
Nauru our homeland, Nauru our homeland,
Forevermore!Sources: