Nkosi Sikelel' iAfrika
A hymn of unity and liberation, adopted as the national anthem of South Africa.
Nkosi Sikelel' iAfrika is a Christian hymn composed in 1897 by Enoch Sontonga, a Xhosa clergyman at a Methodist mission school near Johannesburg. It became a pan-African liberation song and versions were adopted as national anthems of five African countries, including South Africa after apartheid.
- Role
- Half of South Africa's National Anthem
- Language Origin
- Xhosa
- Composer
- Enoch Sontonga
- Significance
- Symbol of Unity and Liberation
Lore & Background
The hymn was composed in 1897 by Enoch Sontonga, a teacher at a Methodist mission school near Johannesburg. It consisted of a single stanza in Xhosa and was intended as a hymn. It was first publicly sung at the ordination of John Hlengani Mboweni in 1899. In 1927 seven additional Xhosa stanzas were added by poet Samuel Mqhayi. The hymn was taken up by the choir of Ohlange High School and was sung to close the African National Congress meeting in 1912; by 1925 it became the official closing anthem of the ANC. It was first published in 1927. During apartheid it was banned by the regime. In 1994 Nelson Mandela decreed that the verse be embraced as a joint national anthem of South Africa alongside 'Die Stem van Suid-Afrika'. A revised version combining elements of both was adopted in 1997. The melody is still used as the national anthem of Tanzania and Zambia; Zimbabwe and Namibia have since changed to new anthems.
In Their Own Story
The green grass seemed to vibrate as the first notes of Nkosi Sikelel' iAfrika rose from the stands, sung in Xhosa by fans who had waited generations for this moment. On the pitch, Springbok players stood with hands over their hearts, eyes closed, feeling the weight of history shift from a symbol of division to one of shared destiny.
Reader's Guide
The South African national anthem is often incorrectly called 'Nkosi Sikelel' iAfrika' but the correct name is 'The National Anthem of South Africa'. The combined version uses several official languages: first two lines in Xhosa, last two in Zulu, second stanza in Sesotho, third stanza in Afrikaans from 'Die Stem', and fourth stanza in English.
Did You Know?
- The hymn was first publicly sung at the ordination of John Hlengani Mboweni in 1899.
- Solomon Plaatje was the first to have the song recorded in London in 1923.
- The melody is used as the national anthem of Tanzania under the name 'Mungu ibariki Afrika' since 1961.
- In Finland the same melody is used as a children's psalm with lyrics by Jaakko Löytty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who composed Nkosi Sikelel' iAfrika?
The hymn was originally written by Enoch Sontonga in the late 19th century using the Xhosa language. It started as a school song before becoming a major anthem for liberation movements.
Why is this song played at Springbok rugby matches?
It forms one half of South Africa's official national anthem, representing the country's multicultural identity on the field. Singing it alongside Die Stem demonstrates national unity following the end of apartheid.
What language are the lyrics sung in during games?
While the original composition is in Xhosa, modern performances often incorporate verses from other indigenous languages like Zulu and Sotho. This reflects the inclusive spirit of the team and the nation's linguistic diversity.
What historical significance does Nkosi Sikelel' iAfrika hold?
It served as a powerful symbol for the anti-apartheid struggle across the African continent during the 20th century. Today, it stands as a testament to freedom and spiritual hope within South African culture.
How does Nkosi Sikelel' iAfrika relate to Die Stem?
Both songs are merged into a single national anthem performed before every Springbok match. This combination honors the diverse heritage of all citizens, blending colonial and indigenous histories.
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