National Anthems of the World

Lyrics, history and anecdotes

🇸🇧 Solomon Islands

The national anthem of Solomon Islands is called: « God Save Our Solomon Islands ».

Continent: Oceania

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

History of « God Save Our Solomon Islands »

« God Save Our Solomon Islands » is the national anthem of the Solomon Islands. The anthem reflects the country’s rich cultural heritage, its journey to independence, and the unity of its people.

Key Dates and People

  • 1978: The lyrics and music for « God Save Our Solomon Islands » were composed by Panapasa Balekana and Matila Balekana, a husband-and-wife duo from the Solomon Islands.
  • 1978: The anthem was officially adopted on July 7, 1978, coinciding with the Solomon Islands’ declaration of independence from British colonial rule.

Anecdotes

  • Independence Celebration: « God Save Our Solomon Islands » was first performed during the independence celebrations on July 7, 1978. The anthem marked a significant moment in the history of the Solomon Islands, symbolizing the country’s newfound sovereignty and national pride.
  • Composer’s Legacy: Panapasa and Matila Balekana are celebrated for their contributions to the music and culture of the Solomon Islands. Their composition for the anthem is considered one of their most significant works, reflecting the spirit and resilience of the Solomon Islands’ people.
  • Cultural Significance: « God Save Our Solomon Islands » is performed at national celebrations, official ceremonies, and sporting events, reinforcing its role in uniting the people of the Solomon Islands and celebrating their heritage. The anthem’s stirring lyrics and melody inspire a sense of unity and pride among Solomon Islanders.

Lyrics Excerpt

In English

God save our Solomon Islands from shore to shore
Blessed all our people and all our lands
With your protecting hands
Joy, Peace, Progress and Prosperity
That men shall brothers be, make nations see
Our Solomon Islands, Our Solomon Islands
Our nation Solomon Islands
Stands forever more.

Translated in Pijin (Solomon Islands Pidgin)

God sevem Solomon Aelan from sho to sho
Blesem pipol evriwan an evri lan
Wetim hand blong yu
Hapi, Pis, Progres an Prosperiti
Mekem pipol evriwan, lukim brata
Solomon Aelan, Solomon Aelan
Nason blong mifala Solomon Aelan
Stanap olowe.

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