"" is the national anthem of Eswatini. It is a compromise between Swazi and Western styles of music and was adopted after independence in 1968. The lyrics were authored by Andrease Enoke Fanyana Kukies Simelane, and the composer of the tune was David Kenneth Rycroft.

History

At the time of Swaziland's upcoming independence from the United Kingdom on 6 September 1968, a new flag was adopted, and it was decided to set up an Anthem Committee and hold a 'National Anthem Competition'. Firstly, a local competition for suitable lyrics in siSwati was held, then a competition for the best musical settings was advertised in The Musical Times in London in early 1967, offering a prize for the winner, with composers being invited to apply to Swaziland's Ministry of Local Administration.

!IPA transcription

!English translation

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|<poem>A

O Lord our God, bestower of the blessings of the Swazi;

We give Thee thanks for all our good fortune;

We offer thanks and praise for our King

And for our fair land, its hills and rivers.

B

Thy blessings be on all rulers of our Country;

Thine alone is our Lord;

We pray Thee to grant us wisdom without deceit or malice.

Establish and fortify us, Lord Eternal.</poem>

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Notes

References

  • Audio of the national anthem of Swaziland, with information and lyrics (Archived from the Wayback Machine)