The national anthem of Tuvalu is called: « Tuvalu mo te Atua ».
Continent: Oceania
In the same continent: 🇦🇺 Australia, 🇫🇯 Fiji, 🇰🇮 Kiribati, 🇲🇭 Marshall Islands, 🇫🇲 Micronesia (Federated States of), 🇳🇷 Nauru, 🇳🇿 New Zealand, 🇵🇼 Palau, 🇵🇬 Papua New Guinea, 🇼🇸 Samoa, 🇸🇧 Solomon Islands, 🇹🇴 Tonga, 🇻🇺 Vanuatu
History of « Tuvalu mo te Atua »
« Tuvalu mo te Atua » (Tuvalu for the Almighty) is the national anthem of Tuvalu. 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 « Tuvalu mo te Atua » were composed by Afaese Manoa, a Tuvaluan musician and composer.
- 1978: The anthem was officially adopted on October 1, 1978, coinciding with Tuvalu’s declaration of independence from British colonial rule.
Anecdotes
- Independence Celebration: « Tuvalu mo te Atua » was first performed during the independence celebrations on October 1, 1978. The anthem marked a significant moment in the history of Tuvalu, symbolizing the country’s newfound sovereignty and national pride.
- Composer’s Legacy: Afaese Manoa, the composer of the anthem, is celebrated for his contributions to the music and culture of Tuvalu. His composition for the anthem is considered one of his most significant works, reflecting the spirit and resilience of the Tuvaluan people.
- Cultural Significance: « Tuvalu mo te Atua » is performed at national celebrations, official ceremonies, and sporting events, reinforcing its role in uniting the Tuvaluan people and celebrating their heritage. The anthem’s stirring lyrics and melody inspire a sense of unity and pride among Tuvaluans.
Lyrics Excerpt
In Tuvaluan
Tuvalu mo te Atua
Ko te fakavae sili
Ko te alu foki tena
O te manuia katoa
Loto lasi o fai
Tou malo saoloto
Fusi ake katoa
Ki te loto alofa
Kae amo fakatasi
Ate atu fenua
Tuvalu ko tu mo te Atua
Ki te se gata mai!Translated in English
Tuvalu for the Almighty
Are the words we hold most dear
For as people or as leaders
Of Tuvalu we all share
In the knowledge that God
Ever rules in heav’n above
And that we in this land
Are united in His love.
We build on a sure foundation
When we trust in God’s great law
“Tuvalu for the Almighty”
Be our song for evermore!Sources: