National anthem of South Africa facts for kids
The National Anthem of South Africa is the official song of South Africa. It's special because its words are sung in five of South Africa's 11 official languages. These languages are Xhosa, Zulu, Sesotho, Afrikaans, and English. This makes it a unique anthem that brings together many different cultures and people.
What is a National Anthem?
A national anthem is like a special song for a country. It often tells about the country's history, its struggles, and its hopes for the future. People usually sing it at important events, like sports games, national holidays, or official ceremonies. It helps people feel proud of their country and united as one nation.
A Song with Many Voices
South Africa's anthem is a mix of two different songs. One part comes from an old Xhosa hymn called "Nkosi Sikelel' iAfrika," which means "God Bless Africa." The other part comes from a song called "Die Stem van Suid-Afrika," which means "The Call of South Africa."
After a big change in South Africa's history, when apartheid ended, these two songs were joined together. This happened in 1997. It was a way to show that all people in South Africa, no matter their background, were now united.
The Meaning of the Words
The anthem starts with parts from "Nkosi Sikelel' iAfrika." These lines ask for God's blessing on Africa and its people. They are sung in Xhosa and Zulu.
Then, the song moves to Sesotho. These words ask for the nation to be saved from wars and troubles. They speak about protecting the people of South Africa.
The next part is in Afrikaans. These lines describe the beautiful landscapes of South Africa, like its blue skies, deep seas, and tall mountains. They remind everyone of the country's natural beauty.
Finally, the anthem ends in English. These words call for everyone to come together and stand united. They talk about living and working hard for freedom in South Africa.
Here are the lyrics with their English meanings:
| Language | Lyrics | English meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Xhosa | Nkosi sikelel' iAfrika Maluphakanyisw' uphondo lwayo, |
God bless Africa Let its (Africa's) horn be raised, |
| Zulu | Yizwa imithandazo yethu, Nkosi sikelela, thina lusapho lwayo. |
Listen also to our prayers, Lord bless us, we are the family of it (Africa). |
| Sesotho | Morena boloka setjhaba sa heso, O fedise dintwa le matshwenyeho, O se boloke, O se boloke setjhaba sa heso, Setjhaba sa, South Afrika — South Afrika. |
Lord bless our nation, Stop wars and sufferings, Save it, save our nation, The nation of South Africa — South Africa. |
| Afrikaans | Uit die blou van onse hemel, Uit die diepte van ons see, Oor ons ewige gebergtes, Waar die kranse antwoord gee, |
From the blue of our heavens, From the depths of our seas, Over our everlasting mountains, Where the cliffs give answer, |
| English | Sounds the call to come together, And united we shall stand, Let us live and strive for freedom In South Africa our land. |
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