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Explore Explore Explore Explore Welcome to South African Websites, your gateway to the best of South Africa's online world! South African Websites, your comprehensive resource for quick links to a wide range of websites that cater to all your interests and needs within the vibrant and diverse South African online community. Our curated collection includes websites from various categories, including news, entertainment, sports, travel, business, education, culture, and more. Whether you're a South African resident looking for the latest local news, an expat seeking connections to home, or a traveler planning a trip to South Africa, our website is designed to provide you with easy access to some of your favorite South African websites, all in one place. With our user-friendly interface and organized categories, you can quickly browse through our list of handpicked websites, saving you time and effort in your online search. Stay up-to-date with the latest news from top South African news sources, catch up on your favorite TV shows or movies with entertainment websites, get updates on sports scores and events, plan your next adventure with travel websites, access business and financial resources, explore South African culture and history with educational websites, and so much more. Our goal is to help you discover and connect with the best of South Africa's online offerings, making your online experience seamless and enjoyable. At South African Websites, we strive to showcase the richness and diversity of South African websites, providing a platform for local businesses, content creators, and communities to thrive. We are committed to promoting the online presence of South African websites and fostering connections within the South African online community. Whether you're a local or an international visitor, we invite you to explore the web with us and discover the best of South Africa through our curated list of websites. Get quick links to some of your favorite South African websites, all in one place. Discover the best of South Africa's online landscape with South African Websites and connect with the diverse culture, people, and opportunities that this vibrant nation has to offer. Welcome to South African Websites, your gateway to the best of South Africa's online world! Lekker Slaap Safarinow Sleeping-OUT WhereToStay 01 Accommodation Find B&Bs, self-catering, or hotels in South Africa. Book in English or Afrikaans! Visit Website New Discounts, Free Nights & Free Gifts Updated Daily. Safe & Convenient Payment. Find The Best Activities. Accommodation Everywhere. Trusted For Over 10 Years. Proudly SA Company. 152000+ Places To Stay. Safe & Secure. Local Customer Support. 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GAUTENG Gauteng Some of South Africa’s largest cities are in Gauteng, including Johannesburg and Pretoria. This province is the economic hub of South Africa. Gauteng is the smallest but wealthiest of South Africa’s provinces . It is the most densely populated of the provinces. The province borders the Free State Province , Limpopo , Mpumalanga and the North-West Province. Towns and Cities The main cities are Johannesburg, Pretoria, Centurion, Midrand, Germiston, Roodepoort, Krugersdorp, Kempton Park and Vereeniging. The main towns include Heidelberg, Magaliesburg, Soweto and Vanderbijlpark. Gauteng (/xaʊˈtɛŋ/ khow-TENG , Sotho: [xɑ́.úˈtʼèŋ̀] ; Sotho-Tswana for 'place of gold'; Zulu : eGoli or iGoli [îːˈɡóːlì] ) is one of the nine provinces of South Africa . Situated on the Highveld , Gauteng is the smallest province by land area in South Africa . Although Gauteng accounts for only 1.5% of the country's land area, it is the most populous province in South Africa , with more than a quarter (26%) of the national population; the provincial population was approximately 16.1 million, according to mid-year 2022 estimates. Highly urbanised, the province contains the country's largest city, Johannesburg . Gauteng is the wealthiest province in South Africa and is considered the financial hub of South Africa; the financial activity is mostly concentrated in Johannesburg. It also contains the administrative capital, Pretoria , and other large areas such as Midrand , Vanderbijlpark , Ekurhuleni and the affluent Sandton . The largest township, Soweto, is also found in this province. Politically, it is the closest contested province between the ANC and the DA in South Africa. Etymology The name Gauteng is derived from Sotho-Tswana gauta, meaning 'gold'. There was a thriving gold industry in the province following the 1886 discovery of gold in Johannesburg . In Sesotho , Setswana and Sepedi the name Gauteng was used for Johannesburg and surrounding areas long before it was adopted in 1994 as the official name of the province. History A snippet of text showing the Sesotho word "Gaudeng" (modern Gauteng) in Jacottet's A practical method to learn Sesuto: with exercises and a short vocabulary , published in 1906 Gauteng was formed from part of the old Transvaal Province after South Africa's first multiracial elections on 27 April 1994. It was initially called Pretoria –Witwatersrand –Vereeniging (PWV) and was renamed "Gauteng" on the 28th of June 1995, the same day two other provinces were renamed. The term "PWV" describing the region existed long before the establishment of a province by that name,with the "V" sometimes standing for "Vaal Triangle " rather than Vereeniging. At the Sterkfontein caves, some of the oldest fossils of hominids have been discovered, such as Mrs. Ples and Little Foot . Events in this area were not written down until the 19th century; information from before that time is lost or difficult to confirm. The first records are from the early 19th century, when settlers originating from the Cape Colony defeated chief Mzilikazi and started establishing villages in the area. The city of Pretoria, established in 1855 as the capital of the South African Republic , witnessed rapid growth until the discovery of gold in the Witswatersrand area in 1886, which led to the founding of Johannesburg.[12] [15] Despite slower development compared to Johannesburg, Pretoria maintained significance, notably due to its pivotal role in the Second Boer War . The nearby town of Cullinan gained international acclaim in 1905 when the largest diamond ever discovered, the Cullinan Diamond , was mined there. Many events crucial to the anti-apartheid struggle happened in present-day Gauteng, such as the Freedom Charter of 1955, Women's March of 1956, Sharpeville massacre of 1960, the Rivonia Trial of 1963 and 1964, the little Rivonia Trial of 1964, the Soweto Uprising of 1976 and Sharpeville Six of 1984. The Apartheid Museum documents this era. Law and government Gauteng is governed by the Gauteng Provincial Legislature , a 73-person unicameral legislature elected by party-list proportional representation . The legislature elects one of its members as Premier of Gauteng to lead the executive, and the Premier appoints an Executive Council of up to 10 members of the legislature to serve as heads of the various government departments. The provincial government is responsible for the topics allocated to it in the national constitution , including such fields as basic education, health, housing, social services, agriculture and environmental protection. The most recent election of the provincial legislature was held on 8 May 2019 , and the African National Congress (ANC) won 50.19% of the vote and a 37-seat majority in the legislature. The official opposition is the Democratic Alliance , which won 27.45% of the vote and 20 seats. Other parties represented are the Economic Freedom Fighters with eleven seats and the Freedom Front Plus with three seats. The Inkatha Freedom Party and African Christian Democratic Party hold one seat each.[16] Premier David Makhura of the ANC was re-elected as premier on 22 May 2019, at the first meeting of the legislature after the general election.Makhura resigned from the position on 6 October 2022 and Panyaza Lesufi of the ANC was elected to replace him. In the 2024 South African general election , held on 29 May, the ANC received 34% of the vote, while the DA received 28%. The Gauteng Division of the High Court of South Africa , which has seats in Pretoria and Johannesburg, is a superior court with general jurisdiction over the province. Johannesburg is also home to the Constitutional Court , South Africa's highest court, and to a branch of the Labour Court and Labour Appeal Court . Geography The undulating hills that form part of the rural areas in the province just north of Johannesburg. Although Gauteng is a heavily urbanised province, much of its area is extensively cultivated for agriculture. Gauteng's southern border is the Vaal River , which separates it from the Free State . It also borders on North West to the west, Limpopo [10] to the north, and Mpumalanga [10] to the east. Gauteng is the only landlocked province of South Africa without a foreign border. Most of Gauteng is on the Highveld , a high-altitude grassland (circa 1,500 m or 4,921 ft above sea level). Between Johannesburg and Pretoria , there are low parallel ridges and undulating hills, some part of the Magaliesberg Mountains and the Witwatersrand . The north of the province is more subtropical , due to its lower altitude and is mostly dry savanna habitat. Witwatersrand area Further information: Witwatersrand In the southern half of Gauteng, the Witwatersrand area is an older term describing a 120 km wide oblong-shaped conurbation from Randfontein in the West to Nigel in the East, named after the Witwatersrand , a geologically and economically important series of low ridges and their associated plateau that greater Johannesburg developed on. This area is also often referred to simply as "Witwatersrand", "the Rand" or "the Reef" (archaic, after the gold reefs that precipitated the development of the area), and was the "W" in PWV, the initial name for Gauteng. It has traditionally been divided into the three areas of East Rand (governed by the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality ), Central Rand (approximately today's Johannesburg Municipality ) and West Rand Climate The climate is mostly influenced by altitude. Even though the province is at a subtropical latitude, the climate is comparatively cooler, especially in Johannesburg , at 1,700 m (5,577 ft) above sea level (Pretoria is at 1,330 m or 4,364 ft). Most precipitation occurs as brief afternoon thunderstorms; however, relative humidity never becomes uncomfortable. Winters are crisp and dry with frost occurring often in the southern areas. Snow is rare, but it has occurred on some occasions in the Johannesburg metropolitan area Cities and towns Cities and towns See also: List of cities and towns in Gauteng Alberton Atteridgeville Benoni Boksburg Bronkhorstspruit Brakpan Carletonville Centurion Cullinan Edenvale Ga-Rankuwa Germiston Hammanskraal Heidelberg Henley on Klip Johannesburg Kempton Park Krugersdorp Mabopane Mamelodi Magaliesburg Meyerton Midrand Nigel Parkhurst Pretoria Randburg Randfontein Roodepoort Rosebank Sandton Soshanguve Soweto Springs Tembisa Vanderbijlpark Vereeniging Administrative divisions Gauteng municipalities Main article: List of municipalities in Gauteng The Gauteng Province (as of May 2011) is divided into three metropolitan municipalities and two district municipalities . The district municipalities are in turn divided into six local municipalities : District municipalities Sedibeng District Emfuleni Lesedi Midvaal West Rand District Merafong City Mogale City Rand West City Metropolitan municipalities Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality (Pretoria ) Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality The former Metsweding district consisting of Nokeng Tsa Taemane and Kungwini in the North of the province was incorporated into Tshwane in 2011. Demographics Population density in Gauteng <1 /km² 1–3 /km² 3–10 /km² 10–30 /km² 30–100 /km² 100–300 /km² 300–1000 /km² 1000–3000 /km² >3000 /km² Dominant home languages in Gauteng Afrikaans English Ndebele Xhosa Zulu Pedi Sotho Tswana Swati Venda Tsonga No language dominant As of the 2022 census , Gauteng had a population of 15,099,422, an increase of 23.0% from the last census in 2011 . Despite being the smallest province by area, it has the highest population of any South African province, with 24.3% of the total South African population. As of 2022, there are 5,318,665 households in Gauteng. The population density is 831/km2. The density of households is 155.86/km2. About 22.1% of all households are made up of individuals. The average household size fell slightly between the 2011 census and 2022 census, from 3.1 to 2.8 persons. The province's age distribution was 23.6% under the age of 15, 19.6% from 15 to 24, 37.9% from 25 to 44, 15.0% from 45 to 64, and 4.0% who are 65 years of age or older. The median age is 27 years. For every 100 females there are 101.2 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there are 102.3 males. BACK TO THE TOP OF THE PAGE Languages Languages According to the 2022 census , in Gauteng, the most spoken languages at home were: Zulu : 23.1% of residents, Sesotho : 13.1%, Sepedi : 12.6%, Setswana : 10.4%, English : 9.2%, Afrikaans : 7.7%, Xitsonga : 7.0%, IsiXhosa : 6.7%, IsiNdebele : 3.1%, Tshivenda : 2.4%, SiSwati : 0.9%, South African Sign Language : 0.02%, Other languages: 4.3%. Religion 86.1% of residents are Christian, 4.3% have no religion , 1.6% are Muslim, 0.1% are Jewish, and 0.7% are Hindu . 6.0% stated Traditional African religions as their faith. Educational Attainment 8.4% of residents aged 20 and over have received no schooling, 11.2% have had some primary, 5.5% have completed only primary school, 34.3% have had some high education, 28.0% have finished only high school, and 12.6% have an education higher than the high school level. Overall, 40.6% of residents have completed high school. Economic Status 56.1% of housing units have a telephone and/or mobile phone in the dwelling, 41.5% have access to a phone nearby, and 2.3% have access that is not nearby or no access. 82.8% of households have a flush or chemical toilet. 84.2% have refuse removed by the municipality at least once a week and 2.6% have no rubbish disposal. 47.2% have running water inside their dwelling, 83.6% have running water on their property, and 97.5% have access to running water. 73.2% of households use electricity for cooking, 70.4% for heating, and 80.8% for lighting. 77.4% of households have a radio, 65.7% have a television, 15.1% own a computer, 62.1% have a refrigerator , and 45.1% have a mobile phone. 25.8% of the population aged 15–65 is unemployed. The median annual income of working adults aged 15–65 is R 23 539 ($3,483). Males have a median annual income of R 24 977 ($3,696) versus R 20 838 ($3,083) for females. According to the 2022 census , in Gauteng, the most spoken languages at home were: Zulu : 23.1% of residents, Sesotho : 13.1%, Sepedi : 12.6%, Setswana : 10.4%, English : 9.2%, Afrikaans : 7.7%, Xitsonga : 7.0%, IsiXhosa : 6.7%, IsiNdebele : 3.1%, Tshivenda : 2.4%, SiSwati : 0.9%, South African Sign Language : 0.02%, Other languages: 4.3%. Religion 86.1% of residents are Christian, 4.3% have no religion , 1.6% are Muslim, 0.1% are Jewish, and 0.7% are Hindu . 6.0% stated Traditional African religions as their faith. Educational Attainment 8.4% of residents aged 20 and over have received no schooling, 11.2% have had some primary, 5.5% have completed only primary school, 34.3% have had some high education, 28.0% have finished only high school, and 12.6% have an education higher than the high school level. Overall, 40.6% of residents have completed high school. Economic Status 56.1% of housing units have a telephone and/or mobile phone in the dwelling, 41.5% have access to a phone nearby, and 2.3% have access that is not nearby or no access. 82.8% of households have a flush or chemical toilet. 84.2% have refuse removed by the municipality at least once a week and 2.6% have no rubbish disposal. 47.2% have running water inside their dwelling, 83.6% have running water on their property, and 97.5% have access to running water. 73.2% of households use electricity for cooking, 70.4% for heating, and 80.8% for lighting. 77.4% of households have a radio, 65.7% have a television, 15.1% own a computer, 62.1% have a refrigerator , and 45.1% have a mobile phone. 25.8% of the population aged 15–65 is unemployed. The median annual income of working adults aged 15–65 is R 23 539 ($3,483). Males have a median annual income of R 24 977 ($3,696) versus R 20 838 ($3,083) for females. Life expectancy Life expectancy Gauteng is the province with the second highest life expectancy in the country in 2019 with females having a life expectancy of 69 years and males having a life expectancy of 64 years. Urban conurbation Historically described as the PWV complex, the urban conurbation of Gauteng, referred to as the Gauteng City Region, contains the major urban populations of Johannesburg (7,860,781 as of 2011), Pretoria (1,763,336), Vereeniging (377,922), Evaton (605,504) and Soshanguve (728,063), coming to an urban population of over 11 million. Thomas Brinkhoff lists a "Consolidated Urban Area" in Gauteng as having a population of 13.1 million as of January 2017. The future governmental plans for the region indicate the gradual urbanisation and consolidation towards the creation of a megalopolis that connects these metros. The GCRO is a collaboration between the Universities of Johannesburg and Witwatersrand, the city of Johannesburg, Gauteng Provincial Government, and SALGA-Gauteng. The GCRO's purpose is to collect information and create a database on the Gauteng City Region to provide to government, lawmakers and civil society an informed understanding of the fastest urbanizing region in Southern Africa. Economy Main article: Economy of Gauteng Gauteng is considered the economic hub of South Africa and contributes heavily in the financial, manufacturing, transport, technology, and telecommunications sectors, among others. It also plays host to a large number of overseas companies requiring a commercial base in and gateway to Africa . Gauteng is home to the Johannesburg Stock Exchange , the largest stock exchange in Africa. Some of the largest companies in Africa and abroad are based in Gauteng, or have offices and branches there, such as Vodacom , MTN , Neotel , Microsoft South Africa and the largest Porsche Centre in the world. Although Gauteng is the smallest of South Africa's nine provinces—it covers a mere 1.5% of the country's total land area, the province is responsible for a third of South Africa's gross domestic product (GDP). Gauteng generates about 10% of the total GDP of sub-Saharan Africa and about 7% of total African GDP. Gauteng has the highest GDP and GDP per capita of all South Africa's provinces. Gauteng is also the province with the most taxpayers and the highest average taxable income per taxpayer according to the South African Revenue Service . Transport Sandton Gautrain Station in August 2010 SANRAL , a parastatal, is responsible for the maintenance, development and management of all national road networks in South Africa.. SANRAL is responsible for instituting the Gauteng Freeway Improvement Project, which was met with a lot of opposition due to the tolling of Gauteng motorists. Many important national routes run through Gauteng such as the N1 , N3 , N4 , N12 , N14 and the N17 . Johannesburg is quite dependent on freeways for transport in and around the city. The R21 , R24 , R59 , M1 and M2 all run through Johannesburg while the R80 connects Pretoria Central to Soshanguve. The Gauteng Freeway Improvement Project led to a large decrease in traffic congestion when construction finished 2011–2012. Cape Town , for the first time in decades, is now the most congested city in South Africa. PUTCO , the largest commuter bus operator in South Africa, services the Gauteng area extensively. The bus rapid transit system Rea Vaya also serves to transport people from Johannesburg's southern neighbourhoods into and around the CBD . In an interview, Parks Tau stated that by 2040, Johannesburg will be dominated by pedestrians and public transport as opposed to the use of private transport or informal transport, such as minibus taxis. Gautrain and Metrorail both service the province's public transport sector where trains are concerned and Gautrain offers a bus service that transports commuters to and from various train stations and predetermined bus stops. Metrorail trains are considered one of the most cost-effective methods of transportation in and around Gauteng. The O. R. Tambo International Airport , Rand Airport , Lanseria International Airport , Wonderboom Airport and Grand Central Airport are located in Gauteng. There is a large informal transport sector in Gauteng, consisting of thousands of minibus taxis , which many of the urban and rural population makes use of. However, it is noted that taxis are often unsafe as their drivers ignore the rules of the road and the vehicles are often not roadworthy . The City of Johannesburg stated that: "major initiatives are under way to completely reform the taxi industry and provide more comfort and safety to customers." In March 2017, it is reported that Gauteng alone has 4,7 million registered vehicles under the "GP" abbreviation via the eNatis system. Education University of Pretoria 's Old Arts Building Gauteng is a large center of learning in South Africa, and it has many universities and educational institutions of higher learning. Universities Monash University South Africa Campus Tshwane University of Technology University of Johannesburg Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University University of Pretoria University of South Africa University of the Witwatersrand Vaal University of Technology Colleges African Leadership Academy CTI Education Group Damelin Lyceum College Midrand Graduate Institute Rabbinical College of Pretoria St Augustine College of South Africa Milpark Education Stadio In 2002, the Gauteng Department of Education founded an initiative called Gauteng Online in an attempt to get the entire province to utilize a wide assortment of electronic and telecommunications systems. In 2007, this initiative was handed over to the Gauteng Department of Finance. In the 2013 national budget speech, it was announced that the Gauteng Department of Education would be granted over R 700 million to improve education and to alleviate issues concerning the overcrowding in schools, a shortage in teaching staff and transport for poor pupils. In 2017/2018, the Gauteng Provincial government spent R 42.4 billion on education which accounted for 38% the province's total expenditure. Conservation Although Gauteng province is dominated by the urban areas of Johannesburg and Pretoria, it has several nature reserves. Gauteng is home to the Cradle of Humankind UNESCO World Heritage Site which includes the Sterkfontein caves and the Wonder Cave Kromdraai . Johannesburg is home to the largest human-made urban forest in the world. Botanical gardens Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden Johannesburg Botanical Garden Pretoria National Botanical Garden Nature reserves Rietvlei Nature Reserve Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve Groenkloof Nature Reserve Dinokeng Game Reserve Private and municipal reserves Kromdraai Conservancy Krugersdorp Nature Reserve Rietvlei Nature Reserve Wonderboom Nature Reserve Provincial reserves The Maropeng visitors centre at the Cradle of Humankind Main article: Gauteng Department of Agriculture, Conservation, Environment and Land Affairs There are 5 provincial reserves managed by the Gauteng Department of Agriculture, Conservation, Environment and Land Affairs: Abe Bailey Nature Reserve Alice Glockner Nature Reserve Marievale Bird Sanctuary Roodeplaat Nature Reserve Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve Sport Loftus Versfeld Stadium, one of Gauteng's various stadia and venue for the 2010 FIFA World Cup Gauteng is home to many stadiums and sporting grounds, notably Soccer City , Ellis Park Stadium , Odi Stadium , Loftus Versfeld Stadium , Lucas Moripe Stadium , Giant Stadium , Orlando Stadium , Johannesburg Stadium , the Wanderers Stadium and SuperSport Park . Several teams from Gauteng play in the country's top-level association football (more commonly referred to as soccer) league, the Premier Soccer League (PSL), including Mamelodi Sundowns , SuperSport United , Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates . The national squad Bafana Bafana 's home stadium is Soccer City in Johannesburg. During the 2010 FIFA World Cup , the first ever world cup held by an African nation, Gauteng's stadia hosted many games. The first ever FIFA world cup match on African soil took place at Soccer City on 11 June 2010. Along with Soccer City, Loftus Versfeld Stadium and Ellis Park Stadium hosted matches in Gauteng. Rugby , or more accurately rugby union , is a popular sport in South Africa, and in Gauteng in particular. Two rugby teams from Gauteng participate in the Southern Hemisphere Super Rugby championship: the Pretoria -based Bulls , and the Johannesburg -based Lions (previously the Cats). Three Gauteng-based teams play in the country's domestic competition, the Currie Cup : the Blue Bulls from Pretoria, the Golden Lions from Johannesburg and the Falcons from the East Rand . In 1995, South Africa hosted the 1995 Rugby World Cup and proceeded to win the tournament at Ellis Park Stadium on 24 June 1995. The events surrounding the world cup formed the basis of the story for the movie Invictus . Many South African universities take part in the Varsity Rugby league. Of these, the Gauteng universities include the University of Pretoria, the University of Johannesburg and the University of the Witwatersrand. Cricket is also widely popular among all cultural groups in the country, and is the only sport to feature in the top two among all of South Africa's major ethnic/racial groups. The Highveld Lions represent both Gauteng and North West in the country's three domestic competitions—the first-class SuperSport Series , the List A one-day MTN Domestic Championship and the Twenty20 Standard Bank Pro 20 Series . Many marathons take place in Gauteng, such as the Gauteng Marathon, the Arwyp Medical Centre 15 km Nite Race and the Trisport Joburg City Triathlon. Gauteng's favourable weather conditions throughout the year make it an ideal hub for sports and other out door activities. This makes golf , horse racing and swimming very popular. The Vaal River facilitates water sports in the forms of jet skiing, water skiing and motor boating.[82] Adventure sports are also quite popular in Gauteng, particularly skydiving, paragliding and hang-gliding. The amusement park Gold Reef City is situated in Gauteng,as is the Johannesburg Zoo [84] and the Pretoria Zoo . Botanical gardens in the province include the Pretoria and Walter Sisulu national botanical gardens maintained by the South African National Botanical Institute as well as the Johannesburg and Manie van der Schijff botanical gardens. The Ticketpro Dome and the Gallagher Convention Centre , which are both popular events and expos venues, are also located within Gauteng. The province also has a Formula One racetrack, the Kyalami Circuit . The most recent F1 race at the venue was in 1993. BACK TO THE TOP OF THE PAGE

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South African Music Afrikaans music is a genre that originated in South Africa and is sung in the Afrikaans language. It is known for its emotional and heartfelt lyrics, often touching on themes of love, loss, and the beauty of the South African landscape. The music is typically accompanied by guitar and other traditional instruments, and can range from slow ballads to upbeat, danceable tunes. Some popular Afrikaans artists include Spoegwolf, Riaan Benadé, and Theuns Jordaan. (AI Generated) Top Afrikaans Songs of All Time Friday, August 02, 2019 at 8:29 AM by Peris Walubengo 6 min read Music is highly placed in the life of an African since it is one of the integral parts of their culture. Over the years the Afrikaans tribe of South Africa has produced some of the best musicians who have confounded fans with their amazing hits in the unique Afrikaans language. Did you know that, fine music can always be defined by more than just the language it is sung in? Keep reading to discover the Top Afrikaans Songs of All Time. Read more: https://briefly.co.za/34552-top-afrikaans-songs-all-time.html die heuwels fantasties Jack Parow Bok van Blerk rock south africa Fokofpolisiekar Glaskas Jan Blohm Van Coke Kartel Zinkplaat happy Laurika Rauch Robbie Wessels Spoegwolf Koos Kombuis Ray Dylan Francois Van Coke Jay Karlien van Jaarsveld Kurt Darren Straatligkinders Straatligkinders Valiant Swart chill Karen Zoid Riana Nel Theuns Jordaan aKING eden indie Desmond & The Tutus Die Tuindwergies Foto Na Dans Lianie May Shortstraw Various acoustic afrikaans rock classic afrikaans dance easy listening pop sokkie south african suid-afrikaans éF-éL Adam Alleen Na Desember Bobby van Jaarsveld David Kramer Die Antwoord Gerhard Steyn Jakkie Louw Jeremy Loops Johannes Kerkorrel Juanita du Plessis Lukraaketaar Mel Botes Pierre Greeff Snotkop folk sing along suidafrika Bittereinder Borrah And Borrah And Mad ProfessorMad Professor Brendan Peyper Dans Dans Lisa Dewald Wasserfall Dozi Elvis Blue Etienne Steyn Frank Ocean Frieda van den Heever Gazelle Goldfish GoodLuck Haezer Jak de Priester Joshua Na Die Reën Justice Kaleidoskoop Kevin Leo Klopjag Kongos Koos Du Plessis LCNVL MK Mandoza Matthew Mole Milky Chance Mimi Coertse Miriam Makeba Nicholis Louw Okay Orange Sector Rooies Grobbelaar Shadowclub Stef Bos Steve Hofmeyr The Parlotones The Plastics Akkedis Al Bairre AlexDavid-2 Amanda Strydom Andre Swiegers Andriette Angus Angus & Julia Stone Anke Anna Davel Anton Botha Arno Carstens Arno Jordaan August Rush (Motion Picture Soundtrack) Autoheart BLEACHERS BLK JKS Barry Louis Polisar Bebo Best Ek Mis Jou Elizma Theron Elvis se Seun Estevan Cruz 1 FPK Farryl Purkiss Fifth Harmony Flip a Coin Frankie Goes to Hollywood Fredrik Thordendal's Special Defects Freshlyground Frikkie En Die Dolfyne Fuzigish Gang of Rhythm George Ezra Gerrie Pretorius Gert Bekker Gert Vlok Nel Gone In The Daylight Guus Meeuwis Click Here List of South African musicians Afrotraction (Mzwandile Moya; born 1983), R&B and neo-soul musician and producer AKA (1988–2023), hip-hop artist and record producer aKing , acoustic rock band Akustika Chamber Singers , chamber choir from Pretoria Sizwe Alakine , Amapiano musician (aka Reason, rapper) Amampondo , traditional Xhosa percussion group from Cape Town Anatii (born 1993), hip-hop artist and record producer A-Reece (born 1997), hip-hop artist and lyricist Leigh Ashton (born 1956), singer-songwriter from Johannesburg Assagai , Afro-rock band active in the early 1970s Robin Auld , singer songwriter The Awakening , gothic rock Aymos , singer songwriter Julian Bahula (1938–2023), jazz drummer Ballyhoo , 1980s pop band best known for the hit "Man on the Moon" Zakes Bantwini [1] Leonel Bastos (born 1956), Mozambiquan adult contemporary musician and producer working in South Africa Battery 9 , industrial music project from Johannesburg Beatenberg Amanda Black (born 1993), Afro-soul singer-songwriter BlackByrd , pop trio BLK JKS , rock band Elvis Blue , musician and songwriter Bongo Maffin , kwaito music group Boo! , band Boom Shaka , kwaito music group Stef Bos (born 1961), singer Cristina Boshoff (born 1980), folk pop singer and pianist Brasse Vannie Kaap , hip-hop group Bles Bridges (1947–2000), singer Bright Blue , 1980s pop band, best known for the hit song "Weeping" The Brother Moves On , performance art ensemble Buckfever Underground , folk/punk/art band Bucie (born 1987), R&B and soul singer Bulletscript , metal band Busiswa (born 1988), house musician Jonathan Butler (born 1961), singer-songwriter and guitarist Guy Buttery (born 1983), guitar player Adrienne Camp (born 1981), singer-songwriter Captain Stu , ska, funk, punk, and soul fusion band Arno Carstens (born 1972), former lead singer of Springbok Nude Girls Louise Carver (born 1979), folk rock singer-songwriter and pianist Cassette , rock band Cassper Nyovest (born 1990), rapper and record producer Tony Cedras (born 1952), musician Chad , (born 1993), rapper Yvonne Chaka Chaka (born 1965), singer Chris Chameleon (born 1971), solo artist, lead singer and bass guitarist for Boo Blondie Chaplin (born 1951), singer and guitarist Jesse Clegg (born 1988) Johnny Clegg (1953–2019) Clout , 1970s rock group Basil Coetzee (1944–1998), saxophonist Mimi Coertse (born 1932), soprano singer Fifi Cooper (born 1991), singer Tony Cox (born 1954), guitarist Crashcarburn , rock band Crossingpoint , Christian progressive hardcore band Cutting Jade , five-piece rock group Civil Twilight , four-piece rock band Crow Black Sky , black metal band Costa Titch (1995–2023), Amapiano rapper and dancer Covenant Voices , mass gospel choir with elements of traditional Zulu music, jazz, R&B and contemporary music Da L.E.S (born 1985), hip-hop artist Simphiwe Dana (born 1980) Danny K (Daniel Koppel), R&B singer-songwriter Kurt Darren , singer Pierre de Charmoy (born 1961), singer-songwriter Steven De Groote (1953–1989), classical pianist and winner of the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition Fanie de Jager (born 1949), operatic tenor Die Antwoord , alternative hip hop group[2] Die Heuwels Fantasties , Afrikaans rock band Bonginkosi Dlamini (born 1977), poet, actor and singer, also known as Zola Dollar Brand (born 1934) Donald (born 1985), singer Dorp , rock band Downfall , ska and punk band Dr Victor and the Rasta Rebels, reggae Dreamteam , hip-hop group from Durban Jabulani Dubazana , singer, Ladysmith Black Mambazo Lucky Dube (1964–2007) Ampie du Preez , singer and guitarist Johnny Dyani (1945–1986), jazz double bassist DJ Speedsta , hip-hop DJ AFRIKAANS MUSIC LINKS Top Afrikaans 2020 - YouTube Music Best Afrikaans 2024 ♫ Top 100 Afrikaans Songs 2024 ... - YouTube Music 45 Free Afrikaans music playlists | 8tracks radio Best Afrikaans Songs of 2023 - New Afrikaans Songs - Chosic Afrikaans musiek - YouTube Music Afrikaanse Musiek Videos - Nuutste December 2024 - YouTube AFRIKAANS SOKKIE TREFFERS 2024 (BESTE SOKKIE MUSIEK) Top afrikaans artists - Last.fm Afrikaanse musiek videos - Nuutste Nov 2024 - Best AFRIKAANSE BESTES 2024 - playlist by JouTaal - Spotify Nuutste Afrikaans Musiek 2024 - Beste Afrikaans 2024 (Nuutste ... - YouTube Top Afrikaans songs 2019 Afrikaans musicians have done an excellent job in releasing Top Afrikaans songs over the past couple of decades. Ranging from rock to electro and gospel, the mesmerizing Afrikaans hits have no doubt managed to give the world a fair dose of the sweet African musical flavor. It is on this note that we bring to you 10 of the Best Afrikaans songs of all time. Read also Jack Parow: Thrilling facts about the Afrikaans rap king Die Antwoord - Cookie Thumper The rap hit song “Cookie Thumper”, which was released in 2014, has a whopping 35,700,991 views on YouTube and still counting. Sung by the famous South African rap-rave group Die Antwoord (Afrikaans for “The answer”) the song has been sending shockwaves both in mainstream and social media. The group Die Antwoord was founded in Cape Town in 2008, by rappers Yolandi Visser, Ninja and God (previously known as DJ Hi-Tek). The group’s image is premised on a counterculture movement popularly called Zef in South Africa. Jack Parow - Cooler as Ekke This Hip-Hop/Rap hit song by Jack Parow was released in 2009, and it had hit three million views on YouTube by June 2015. Currently, the song has 4,450,570 views on YouTube and still going strong. Jack Parow is an acclaimed South African Afrikaans rapper who hails from Bellville, Western Cape. Read also Is Simphiwe Dana wedding any time soon? The rapper who is known to have started by rapping for a burger and a beer over 13 years ago is also well known for his role in the song “Die Vraaqstuk”, in collaboration with Die Heuwels Fantasies, with whom he also performed at the 2009 Oppikoppi Music Festival. “Cooler as eke,” Jack Parow’s debut single, has become his most identifiable song, getting a lot of airplay on 3fm - Dutch national radio station. Tarryn Lamb – Mal Oor Jou The hit song “Mal Oor Jou” is found in Tarryn Lamb’s debut solo album named “Mal Oor Jou,” which was released in 2018 and as so far won three Ghoema Music Awards this year. Released on 10 August 2018, the song has already garnered 1,646,638 views on YouTube just one year down the line and promises to be a monster hit. Tarryn Lamb is a South African actor, pop singer, and songwriter, best known for her role as the lead singer in the band BlackByrd. The band has so far won 2 South African Music Awards. Read also Top 20 trending Blaq Diamond songs to listen to in 2022: latest and classic hits Jack Parow ft. Francois van Coke - Dans Dans Dans This hit song by Jack Parow featuring the Fokofpolisiekar frontman Francois van Coke was released in Jack Parow’s self-titled studio album in 2010, and it so far has 1,973,630 views on YouTube. “Dans, Dans, Dans" which means "Dance, Dance, Dance" is one of the most popular Afrikaans songs in South Africa today. Released in the wake of Jack Parow’s highly successful debut single “Cooler as eke,” the song “Dans, Dans, Dans” has received favorable attention from Afrikaans songs lovers. Read also: Nasty C on lookalike, Nasty B: 'Maybe high key proud of brah' Bok Van Blerk - De La Rey Bok van Blerk released the song "De la Rey" in 2006, and it became one of his best hit songs with a massive 1,973,630 views on YouTube currently and still counting. He characterizes the song as a stand against historical guilt. Read also What are the most popular Duncan songs and videos? The famous Afrikaans musician is on record saying that Young Afrikaners are tired of having the apartheid guilt trip shoved down their throats. “This song makes them proud of their heritage,” he added. Born Louis Pepler on March 30, 1978, Bok van Blerk shot into the limelight after his 2006 rendition of “De la Rey” by Johan Vorster and Sean Else. Lianie May & Jay - Toe Stop My Hart - 2,113,359 views Released in 2009, the song “Toe Stop My Hart” is in the album “Boeremeisie." One of the most popular Afrikaanse songs, “Toe Stop My Hart” has hit a total of 2,113,359 views on YouTube and still counting. Lianie May launched her Afrikaans music career in 2007 with her debut album “Vergeet My Nie” (Forget Me Not). Together with Jay du Plessis, a renowned Afrikaans musician, they made “Toe Stop My Hart” one of the most sought after Afrikaans song of the recent past. Read also Top 20 bolobedu music jams from 2019 to 2020 Bok Van Blerk - Afrikanerhart - 1,277,773 views Another of Bok van Blerk’s massive hits is “Afrikanerhart," which currently has over 1, 277,770 views on YouTube. Released on 27 July 2009, under the Mozi Records label, it is one of the hit songs in the album “Afrikanerhart.” Bok van Blerk shot into fame in 2006 for his rendition of "De la Rey" by Sean Else and Johan Vorster, and he has since never looked back. Kurt Darren - Kaptein - 403,842 views Released in 2008, this Afrikaans pop song is found in the album "Uit die diepte van my hart." The song has been enjoying fair airplay across South African FM stations, and so far, it is about to hit the half a million mark with a 403, 842 views on YouTube. Kurt Darren shot into the limelight when he recorded his number one hit song “Meisie Meisie,” which was immediately followed by a chain of other hits, including "Loslappie," "Sê Net Ja" and "Hemel Op Tafelberg." Read also Katlego Maboe biography Steve Hofmeyr – Redgebed - 383,367 views The Afrikaans hit song “Redgebed,” which was released in 2017, was in the album “Skree.” The song is destined to be a huge success having garnered 383,367 views on YouTube up to date. Steve Hofmeyr, the writer, and composer of the hit song is arguably South Africa’s most successful musician. From his humble beginnings as an actor in the popular TV show "Agter Elke Man" then "Egoli" and eventually his TV show "Dis Hoe Dit Is Met Steve," (aired on Kyk Net) Steve has proven himself both as a formidable actor and prolific singer. Elizma Theron – Marilyn Monroe 137,591 views Released in 2018, this particular song is in the album "Hierdie Hart Barand Liefde." The song has been getting fair airplay across radio and TV stations in South Africa, and it promises to be one huge hit. It was one of best Afrikaans songs 2018. Apart from singing Afrikaan songs, Elizma Theron also doubles up as a well-known actress. Read also Mandla Maphumulo biography: girlfriend, success story, life, and albums There is no doubt that Afrikaans music has been growing from strength to strength in the past two decades. Initially, the Afrikaan language was associated mainly with apartheid and “whiteness” in South Africa. However, this view has been gradually changing as more South Africans embrace diversity in the music industry, thanks to the top Afrikaans songs of all time, and music from other main South African languages that seem to enjoy acceptance across the race divide. 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THE BIG FIVE In Africa , the Big five game animals are the lion , leopard , rhinoceros , elephant , and African buffalo The term was coined by big-game hunters to refer to the five most difficult animals in Africa to hunt on foot but is now more widely used by game viewing tourists and safari tour operators.They are examples of charismatic megafauna , featuring prominently in popular culture, and are among the most famous of Africa's large animals. The 1990 and later releases of South African rand banknotes feature a different big-five animal on each denomination. Countries where all can be found include Angola , Botswana , Eswatini , Kenya , Malawi , Mozambique , Namibia , Rwanda , South Africa , Tanzania , Uganda , the Democratic Republic of the Congo , Zambia and Zimbabwe . Species Elephant African bush elephant The African bush elephant and the African forest elephant are the largest extant land-based animals. Elephants are herbivores with thick, almost hairless skin; a long, flexible, prehensile trunk; upper incisors forming long, curved, ivory tusks; and large, fan-shaped ears. Elephants are difficult to hunt because, despite their large size, they are able to hide in thick bush and are more likely to charge than the other Big Five species. They become aggressive when their young are threatened. Rhinoceros Black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis) The black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis) and the white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum) are large herbivores with two upright horns on their nasal bridge. The black rhino is classified as critically endangered and the white rhino as near threatened , and both are subject to extensive poaching. Among big-five game hunters, the black rhinoceros is more highly prized. The current existing rhinos throughout the savanna are southern white rhinoceros , eastern black rhinoceros , south-western black rhinoceros and south-central black rhinoceros . African buffalo African buffalo (Syncerus caffer) The African buffalo (Syncerus caffer) is a large horned bovid . It is the only animal among the Big Five that is not on the "endangered" or "threatened" list. The Cape buffalo (Syncerus caffer caffer) is considered by many to be the most dangerous of any of the Big Five:[12] buffalos have reportedly been known to ambush and attack humans: Lion Lion (Panthera leo) The lion (Panthera leo) is a large, carnivorous feline found in both Africa and northwestern India . It has a short, tawny coat; a tufted tail; and, in the male, a heavy mane around the neck and shoulders. As a large and charismatic apex predator with cultural significance, lions are among the most popular species to view on safari tours. Leopard African leopard (Panthera pardus) The leopard (Panthera pardus) is a large, carnivorous feline. Its fur is generally tawny with dark rosette-shaped markings. The leopard is the most seldom seen of the Big Five because of its nocturnal habits (it is most active between sunset and sunrise, although it may hunt during the day in some areas), and because it is wary of humans and will take flight in the face of danger. Leopards can be located in the grasslands, dense brushes, deserts, and forested areas of African savannas. Conservation status Africa's Big Five have become major concerns for wildlife conservationists in recent years. The African lion and African leopard are both classified as vulnerable . The African savanna elephant is listed as endangered by the IUCN as of 2021. The southern white rhinoceros and African buffalo are classified as near threatened while the black rhinoceros is classified as critically endangered . Lions are majestic creatures that are known for their strength and courage. They are the kings of the jungle and are admired by many for their beauty and power. Lions also social animals that live in groups called prides, they work together to hunt and protect their territory. The African buffalo, also known as the Cape buffalo, is one of the Big Five game animals in Africa. They are known for their unpredictable nature and are considered one of the most animals in Africa. In Africa, the buffalo a significant role in the's history, particularly the colonial era. They were hunted extensively for their and hides, and population declined significantly. Today, the buffalo is protected species in South, and conservation efforts have to increase their numbers The elephant is one of the most fascinating creatures on earth. These gentle giants have been around for millions of years and have played an important role in many cultures religions. From their impressive size to their unique physical features, there is no denying the awe-inspiring nature of the elephant Let's take a closer look at the history of these magnificent animals. The rhinoceros has been an integral part of South Africa's wildlife centuries. These majestic creatures have roamed the savannas and grasslands of the country for thousands of years, and have played an important role in the country cultural and ecological heritage. However, in recent years, the rhino population has been threatened by poaching and habitat loss, making conservation efforts more important than ever. Despite these challenges, South Africa remains committed to protecting its rhino population and ensuring that these magnificent animals continue to thrive for generations to come. The leopard is one of the most fascinating animals in South Africa. It is known for its beautiful coat and elusive nature. Leopards have been a part of South African history for centuries, with many stories and legends surrounding them. From ancient rock art to modern-day conservation efforts, the leopard continues to capture the imagination of people all over the world. THE BIG FIVE Why are the Big Five animals on South Africa’s Banknotes — Lion, Leopard, Rhino, Buffalo and Elephant? For many tourists and travellers, South Africa’s banknotes are a colourful and beautiful surprise when visiting the country for the first time. And, in 2023, the South African Reserve Bank released new banknotes and coins , showcasing the country’s ‘family bonds’ and ‘deep ecology’. Although some design changes were made (with the big five getting a “family-makeover”), South Africa’s banknotes continue to proudly feature each of the big five animals on the back and former president, Nelson Mandela, on the front — earning the paper currency the locally-coined ‘Randela‘ nickname. “The upgraded banknotes continue to pay homage to South Africa’s first democratically elected president, Nelson Mandela, with his portrait featured on the front of all five denominations while the Big 5 animals are depicted as a family.” The South African Reserve Bank, 2023 South Africa’s new banknotes, released on 3 May 2023. Picture Supplied: The Reserve Bank The Big Five on South Africa’s Banknotes But Why are the Big 5 Animals on South Africa’s Banknotes? 1. Tourism 2. National Pride 3. Cultural History The Rhinoceros (Featured on South Africa’s R10 Banknote) The Elephant (Featured on South Africa’s R20 Banknote) The Lion (Featured on South Africa’s R50 Banknote) The Buffalo (Featured on South Africa’s R100 Banknote) The Leopard (Featured on South Africa’s R200 Banknote) But Why are the Big 5 Animals on South Africa’s Banknotes? The the Big Five animals are easily recognised on the back of South Africa’s paper currency. Their first appearance on the South African Rand (ZAR) banknotes in the early 1990s, between 1992 and 1993 with the introduction of the fourth issue of the Rand currency, marked a significant redesign following the end of apartheid. But why are the big five animals on South Africa’s money? Well, the Big Five animals (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo) are featured on South Africas banknotes for a few reasons: 1. Tourism The Big Five are a major draw for tourists visiting South Africa. Their presence on the currency highlights the importance and contribution of safaris parks and game reserves to the country’s economy. In Africa, wildlife tourism employs more than 25 million people. Tourism also drives 8.6% of South Africa’s economy, and continues to grow. The Big 5 animals contribute so much to the country’s economy, it’s no surprise to see them featured on South Africa’s paper currency. 2. National Pride The big five animals are a source of national pride for South Africa. Having them on the currency showcases a part of what makes the country unique. The Big Five animals are something nearly every South African knows — with even children learn about them in school. The big five have become entwined with South Africa’s national identity and its people are proud to be a nation blessed with such incredible wildlife. 3. Cultural History South Africa has a rich and diverse wildlife heritage, and the Big Five on the country’s banknotes pay homage to the importance of the nation’s wildlife throughout the history of our country and its people. Many iconic African animals, for example, like the leopard and lion, are prized for their status and symbolism in traditional African dress and ceremony. The Rhinoceros (Featured on South Africa’s R10 Banknote) The White Rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum) is featured on South Africa’s R10.00 (ten rand) banknotes. The ‘green note’ features two rhinos, a mother and its calf, signifying the strength and unity of familial bonds in South Africa. This is only fitting as these large and sturdy animals represent strength and resilience and are a prominent member of South Africa’s Big Five animals. Sadly, rhinos are critically endangered due to poaching for their horns. Despite various anti-poaching efforts, these sturdy creatures are surprisingly vulnerable. During 2023, 499 rhinos were poached across South Africa . Conservation efforts are crucial to protect these magnificent creatures, and their depiction on the R10.00 banknote serves as a solemn reminder to protect South Africa’s wildlife. The Elephant (Featured on South Africa’s R20 Banknote) The African Elephant is the largest land animal in the world. Featured on South Africa’s R20 (twenty rand) banknote, the African Bush Elephant (a sub-species of the African Elephant) is a highly social and intelligent creature. Growing over 4 metres tall (13 feet) and weighing between 3 to 6 tonnes (5000 to 13,000 pounds), these impressive animals really put the ‘big’ in the big five. Most famous for their long trunks and ivory tusks, African elephants are a proud and prominent figure in South Africa’s wildlife heritage. Did you know that South Africa’s National Coat of Arms , first introduced on Freedom Day, 27 April 2000, features two pairs of elephant tusks curving inwards — forming the sides of the shield or “coat of arms”. Elephants are known for their matriarchal social structures and complex emotional behaviours, making them a symbol of love, wisdom and strength. The Lion (Featured on South Africa’s R50 Banknote) The African Lion (Panthera leo) is featured on South Africa’s R50 (fifty rand) banknote. The ‘King of the Jungle” is the apex predator in South Africa’s wild and represents courage, strength and loyalty. Lions are usually at the top of everyone’s safari bucket list and are a major draw for tourism and Big Five safaris tours in Southern Africa. These majestic animals live in prides and are best known for their impressive manes (hair) and powerful roars that can be heard up to 8 kilometres away. Their presence on South Africa’s banknotes is a testament to their importance and national symbolism of power, family bonds and leadership. The Buffalo (Featured on South Africa’s R100 Banknote) The African Buffalo, a formidable-looking herbivore, is featured on the R100 (one-hundred rand) banknote. The Southern Savanna Buffalo and Cape Buffalo, which are both sub-species of the African Buffalo, are found in South Africa. Hardy and able to survive in the country’s harshest terrains, these grazing-machines live in large herds of up to 1000 or more buffalo. Did you know that buffalos are the most feared of all the Big Five animals? They are said to have killed more hunters in Africa than any other animal. Known for their unpredictable nature and impressive horns, buffalo are symbols of tenacity and survival in the wild. Their inclusion on South Africa’s R100 paper currency highlights their role in the natural ecosystem and the respect they command within the Big Five. The Leopard (Featured on South Africa’s R200 Banknote) The African Leopard is a stealthy and nocturnal big cat, featured on the R200 (two-hundred rand) banknote. Easily recognised for their incredible ‘rosette’ spotted coats, leopards possess incredible strength and can drag large prey (weighing up to three times their own body weight) up trees over 6 metres (20 feet) tall. Although leopards are agile tree climbers, capable of hunting and napping in trees, they do not live in trees. Leopards are solitary and elusive animals with expansive territories, making them one of the most challenging Big Five animals to see in the wild. Their depiction on the highest denomination banknote pays homage to their elegance, symbolism and high value in traditional South African cultures. See South Africa’s Big Five Animals Up Close and In Person Wildlife travel seekers, tourists and local South Africa’s have the incredible opportunity to see South Africa’s Big Five animals not only on the country’s banknotes, but within national parks and game reserves all over the country. As Cape Town’s closest Big Five safari destination , Aquila Private Game Reserve and Spa is proud to be on the frontlines of conservation and wildlife rehabilitation in the Western Cape . For the ultimate Big Five day trip safari or overnight safari adventure that fits perfectly in your Cape Town city itinerary, book now or browse our seven different day tour options — from early morning safaris , horseback trails , quad bike safaris and sunset game drives through Aquila’s wild and stunning 10 000 hectare reserve. What are the Big 5 animals What are the Big 5 animals of Africa and where to find them? What are the Big 5 of Africa? The Big Five animals of Africa Fall in love with Africa\'s Wildlife, savannah plains, Baobab Trees, magical African sunsets, and find the Best Safari Destinations in Africa + tips to plan your Best Safari Tour! , in short, 'The Big 5' include the African elephant, rhinoceros, lion, leopard, and Cape buffalo. These five big game animal species are found on the African continent in the Southern and Eastern parts of Africa. As the name suggests, they are not the heaviest or the 5 biggest safari Embark on a transformative journey with a safari in Africa. Witness iconic wildlife, explore diverse landscapes, and immerse yourself in the rich cultures of the continent. From the majestic Serengeti to the renowned.. animals. If it was about the size or weight of the African animal Interesting facts about African animal species you can find on safari in Africa including the possibility to book a wildlife course to learn everything about animal behavior in the African bush. Read everything you.. , a gorilla or hippo could also easily fit in. A hippo is for example three times heavier than a Cape buffalo and a male gorilla and male lion can both weigh up to 225kg. Why are they called the Big Five animals? The Big Five game refers to the 5 African animals Interesting facts about African animal species you can find on safari in Africa including the possibility to book a wildlife course to learn everything about animal behavior in the African bush. Read everything you.. that big game hunters in the late 1800s, during Africa's colonial period, considered the most dangerous and difficult wild animals to track and hunt on foot. Hunting these African game animals got them the biggest prices and trophies. Dangerous, because of their behavior when they feel threatened or get injured. Sadly, this wildlife is still hunted today but luckily there are also a lot of conservation initiatives to protect these threatened species that are decreasing in population and struggling because of habitat loss. Nowadays, the term 'Big Five' is more a commercial term used by safari companies to sell their 'African Big 5 Safari trips' and to describe the Top 5 safari animals Interesting facts about African animal species you can find on safari in Africa including the possibility to book a wildlife course to learn everything about animal behavior in the African bush. Read everything you.. to see on a game drive The definition of a game drive on safari is: ‘a guided excursion or self-drive by (preferably 4 wheel drive) open-sided safari vehicle in a National Park, reserve, or conservancy to spot and observe African.. . This made them also the most famous large African animals to look for on a safari trip to Africa. Ticking off the Big 5 is therefore on many travelers’ bucket lists. However, there's much more wildlife worth seeing roam freely in their natural habitat, like the cheetah, a tall elegant giraffe, a spotted Hyena, or a pack of African wild dogs. Even smaller creatures, like Dung Beetles or all the colorful birdlife, play an important role in the ecosystems. So, with this article, I also want to raise awareness about the fact that there's more to Africa than spotting the Big Five, which is a hunting term after all. That is also the main reason for setting up the New Big Five project, an international initiative to create a new Big Five of wildlife: the Big Five of wildlife photography Welcome to our comprehensive guide on wildlife photography , where we delve into the art, techniques, and equipment required to capture stunning images of wildlife in their natural habitats. Whether you're an.. where it's about shooting with a camera instead of hunting with a gun. The aim of this project is to raise awareness about the crisis facing the world's wildlife from threats, including habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, poaching, illegal wildlife trade, and climate change. Big Five animal facts 1. African Elephant: a gentle giant The African savanna elephant is the largest land mammal in the world and can reach up to 3 meters in height and can weigh up to 7 tons. The African forest elephant is 3 feet shorter. Elephants communicate across a large distance at a very low frequency through their feet and the soil that cannot be heard by humans. Elephants live in a herd that is led by the 'matriarch' female. The elephant is threatened by ivory poachers for their tusks. 2. Rhino: most endangered species of the Big 5 The Rhinoceros is the most endangered species of the Big Five due to rhino poaching and illegal trade in rhino horns. There are two species of rhino in Africa: the White Rhino and the Black Rhino and five subspecies. The names of the rhino don't have anything to do with color as both species are grey. The name of the 'white' rhino is a corruption of the Dutch word 'wijd' (wide), which refers to the wide mouth or square lip of the white rhino. A rhino can weigh up to 5000 pounds and its horns can grow up to 5 feet long. Rhinos have poor eyesight but excellent hearing and sense of smell. 3. African Lion: courageous King of the jungle An African lion is the largest predator on land. Preys of the lion include zebra, impala, giraffes, and other herbivores like wildebeest. A group of lions is called a pride and males are easily distinguished from females because of their large manes. The darker the lion's manes, the older he is. A male lion is sometimes referred to as the king, but in reality, lions don't have a permanent social hierarchy. The dominant male in a lion pride can change at any time. The females hold the territory and stay with the pride in which they were born. They also do most of the hunting and take care of the cubs. Lions use their roar as a form of communication and can be heard up to 5 miles away. 4. Leopard: sneaky and excellent tree climber The African leopard is the most solitary and elusive animal of the big 5, staying hidden during the day. They are the least seen of the Big 5 and on most occasions found alone. The leopard is nocturnal and mainly hunts at night. Their kills include zebra and antelopes like Thompson Gazelle. The elusive leopards hide their prey in a tree to prevent lions and hyenas from stealing it. A lion and a leopard both belong to the African big cats, but they can't get along. A lion will kill a leopard if it has the chance. A leopard is also a good swimmer and occasionally eats fish. 5. Cape Buffalo: most dangerous to humans The African buffalo is very territorial and protective and is probably the most dangerous animal of the big five to humans. If this cow-like animal feels threatened it can become very aggressive and charge with astonishing speed. Buffaloes are mostly found in groups and large herds and spend a lot of their time grazing. Both male and female buffaloes have horns, but the males' horns curve and come together in the center, forming a big bony plate called a boss. The primary predator of the buffalo is the lion. A buffalo will try to protect and rescue another member of the herd and they have even been seen killing a lion after the lion had killed a member of the group. Although the African buffalo and water buffalo resemble each other, they are not closely related. Where to find the Big Five in Africa? The Big 5 animals live on the African continent. You can find all of the Big 5 in Southern Africa and East Africa. The African countries where you can see the Big Five are: Angola Botswana Visit Botswana, Africa’s last great wilderness. Find exclusive safari experiences, eco-lodges, the Kalahari desert, and Okavango Delta with free-roaming wildlife. Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) Kenya Kenya is Africa\'s Top Safari Destination! This Kenya Travel Guide features The Best Places to visit for a Kenya Safari and Wildlife Photography, such as the Masai Mara and Amboseli Malawi Malawi Travel Guide featuring ✓ Lake Malawi ✓ Safari in Liwonde National Park ✓ Majete Wildlife Reserve ✓ Zomba Plateau ✓ Satemwa Tea Estates ✓ Lusaka and ✓ Nkhotakota Mozambique Namibia Travel to Namibia and experience the country\'s amazing wildlife, tribes, and endless horizons. From red dunes and deserts to canyons and coastlines. Explore Namibia with my helpful Ultimate Namibia Travel Guide and.. Rwanda Rwanda Travel Guide featuring ✓ Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes NP ✓ Nyungwe Forest ✓ Big Five Safari Akagera National Park ✓ Kigali Genocide Memorial ✓ Best time to visit Rwanda South Africa Travel to South Africa and fall in love with its free-roaming wildlife, stunning landscapes, warm-hearted people, the City of Cape Town, and stunning views. Explore South Africa with my helpful Ultimate South Africa.. Tanzania Tanzania Travel Guide featuring ✓ Serengeti ✓ Balloon Safari Tanzania ✓ Ngorongoro ✓ Tarangire ✓ Arusha ✓ Maasai & Hadzabe ✓ Zanzibar Island ✓ Tanzania Safari Tours and more! Uganda Uganda Travel Guide featuring ✓ Gorilla trekking Bwindi ✓ Kibale Chimpanzees ✓ Safari in Murchison Falls ✓ Tree-lions in Ishasha ✓ Kampala ✓Sipi Falls and ✓ Kidepo National Park Zambia Discover Zambia\'s remote wilderness! Plan your safari in Zambia with this helpful guide featuring Victoria Falls, Lower Zambezi, Kafue, South Luangwa, North Luangwa and Lusaka. Zimbabwe Zimbabwe Travel Guide featuring the best places to visit for safari in Zimbabwe, things to do including Victoria Falls or a walking safari in Hwange and Mana Pools, and the best time to visit Zimbabwe! Not all of the above countries where the Big 5 live are ideal for a safari trip in terms of safety and existing numbers of the Big Five species. What are the best Big Five safari destinations? The best countries to see all the big five on safari are South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Botswana, Uganda, and Namibia. However, in Namibia, you can't find all of the Big 5 in one place. In Etosha National Park you can only see 4 of the African Big Five. You can't find the buffalo there, but it's the best place in Africa to see the black rhino. They often concentrate around a water hole where tourists can sit to observe these critically endangered animals. In Uganda, you can't see rhinos in the wild, but you have a chance of seeing all the Big 5 when you visit them up close at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary where they roam freely but are protected by rangers A game ranger , or simply ranger, is responsible for a wide range of duties related to the management and conservation of wildlife. This includes veterinary care, population control and breeding, as well as more.. 24/7. In Uganda, you can also see the endangered mountain Gorilla and our closest relative on a chimpanzee trekking Chimpanzee trekking in Uganda is one of the exciting activities that will turn your Uganda safari into an experience of a lifetime. Did you know that Chimpanzees are our closest genetic relatives, sharing over.. or chimpanzee habituation. South Africa is one of the most reliable Big Five safari destinations to spot all the Big 5. South Africa even honored the importance of the Big 5 animals by putting each of the 5 animals on their bills. What are the best places to see all of the Big 5? The best chance of seeing the Big Five on a single safari or even on a single game drive is at the following places: Kruger National Park and the surrounding Kruger Game Reserves The Kruger Game Reserves neighboring Kruger National Park in South Africa are renowned for hosting Africa's most iconic wildlife species. Greater Kruger Park is a prime destination for African safaris, where.. . Kruger is one of the best places to go for a safari in South Africa Travel to South Africa and fall in love with its free-roaming wildlife, stunning landscapes, warm-hearted people, the City of Cape Town, and stunning views. Explore South Africa with my helpful Ultimate South Africa.. for both beginner safari travelers and seasoned wildlife viewers. Jock Concession within Kruger NP or Sabi Sands Game Reserve and Thornybush, host luxurious safari lodges with an abundance of wildlife roaming around freely. Sabi Sands and Thornybush are also known for its high number of leopard sightings, but they are not the only reserve famous for that. Read more about the best Private Game Reserves and Concessions in Kruger to spot the Big Five Safari animals. Shamwari Private Game Reserve When planning a safari in Africa, especially for first-timers, it's good to know the difference between a private game reserve and a national park. This article will give an answer to the question ' what is a.. is a great place to find the Big 5 in South Africa. A beautiful high-end reserve with luxurious lodges and an exclusive feeling. You're often the only safari vehicle at an animal sighting. Shamwari is also well-known for its wildlife conservation initiatives, like the born-free Foundation. Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania is a perfect place to find all of the Big Five in one day! You can combine your trip to the Ngorongoro Crater with for example the Serengeti Without a doubt, Serengeti National Park is the best place to visit for a safari in Tanzania. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is unique for many reasons, but especially because of the Great Migration, the incredible.. , famous for its wildlife sightings including the great migration The Great Migration in Africa is an annual event that sees millions of wildebeest, zebra, and other ungulates migrate across the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem in East Africa. This migration involves the movement of large.. of wildebeest and zebra. Want to plan a safari to Tanzania? Read the best places to visit in Northern Tanzania. Maasai Mara The Masai Mara National Reserve is one of the most popular safari destinations in East Africa. Without a doubt, a Masai Mara safari in Kenya guarantees a memorable experience with spectacular game drives and.. National Park and the Mara Conservancies are also one of the best places to find the Big 5, although seeing rhinos roaming freely is a challenge. Some conservancies have a rhino sanctuary, but these rhinos are protected by rangers 24/7. An example is the Enonkishu Conservancy A conservancy is a protected area of land that is set aside for the conservation of natural resources, such as plants, animals, and ecosystems. The purpose of a conservancy is to preserve and protect the natural.. on the northern boundary of the Maasai Mara Conservancies. Another great place in Kenya to see rhinos is at Ol Pejeta Conservancy. Read everything you need to know about safari in the Masai Mara. Of course, there are much more places and national parks to see the Big Five. Not all national parks have all of the Big Five and when they do have them, it can be harder to spot all of them on a single safari in Africa. When is the best time to see the Big Five in Africa? The high season for a safari in Africa is from July to October. It's the cooler dry winter which makes a Big 5 sighting easier because of the thin and dried-up vegetation. The lack of rain also means animals congregate around flowing rivers or larger lakes to drink. However, the shoulder seasons are also perfect to find the big 5 in Africa and it's less touristy. The African Big Five and wildlife conservation status Africa's Big Five are of great concern for wildlife conservationists due to trophy hunting, poaching, and habitat loss. Most of the Big 5 animals are listed as vulnerable or (critically) endangered species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Hunting is sadly still allowed to some degree, but Africa now also has strict laws to protect and conserve many African animal species. The black rhinoceros is classified as critically endangered and the southern white rhinoceros is near threatened. Mostly due to poaching because of the rhino horn. Two species of the African Big Cats, the African lion, and the African leopard are classified as vulnerable. The African savanna elephant is an endangered species, mainly because of the poaching crisis and habitat loss. The African buffalo is of the least concern of all the Big Five animals. Learn about the Big 5 on safari in Africa Did you know I'm a qualified Field Guide A field guide or nature guide is a trained and experienced professional who leads tours and provides education and interpretation about the local flora, fauna, and natural heritage, history, folklore and beauty of an.. (also known as a nature guide A field guide or nature guide is a trained and experienced professional who leads tours and provides education and interpretation about the local flora, fauna, and natural heritage, history, folklore and beauty of an.. or safari guide A field guide or nature guide is a trained and experienced professional who leads tours and provides education and interpretation about the local flora, fauna, and natural heritage, history, folklore and beauty.. Join my Africa Safari Tours and experience the real African Wilderness in an ethical and authentic way, while learning more about wildlife, culture, and safari photography. to Africa with me where you will learn even more about the Big Five and all other flora and fauna. As a photographic tour leader and Dutch/English/German-speaking tour guide, I work closely together with local African tour operators and local drivers/guides. Get in touch to enquire about the possibilities. Guide to the Big 5 Animals of Africa I hope this article was helpful to learn more facts about the African Big 5 animals, including why they are called the Big Five, in what countries these Big 5 safari animals are found, and the best time of spotting them with a side note that there's more to Africa than spotting the Big Five. Smaller creatures play an important role in the ecosystems as well. People who are going on a safari in Africa shouldn't be disappointed when they don't tick off the Big Five. Try to appreciate every single animal, big or small. Even trees, plants, and flowers. Every sighting is a gift of nature. Everything is connected and we should appreciate this more. You would help me a lot by sharing this guide to the Big 5 in Africa on your social media or pinning it on Pinterest for later use. Want to keep up to date with my travels? . If you are inspired to go on a safari to Africa, you can find all of my writing about Africa and its countries in my Africa Travel Guide.

THE BATTLE OF BLOOD RIVER The Battle of Blood River is a significant event in South African history. It took place on December 16, 8, between the Voortrekkers, led by Andries Pretorius, and the Zulu army, led by King Dingane. The Voortrekkers emerged victorious, and the battle has since been commemorated as a public holiday known as the Day of Reconciliation. THE FULL STORY The Battle of Blood River (16 December 1838) was fought on the bank of the Ncome River , in what is today KwaZulu-Natal , South Africa between 464 Voortrekkers ("Pioneers"), led by Andries Pretorius , and an estimated 25,000 to 30,000 Zulu . Estimations of casualties amounted to over 3,000 of King Dingane 's soldiers dead, including two Zulu princes competing with Prince Mpande for the Zulu throne. Three Voortrekker commando members were lightly wounded, including Pretorius. The year 1838 was the most difficult period for the Voortrekkers from when they left the Cape Colony, till the end of the Great Trek. They faced many difficulties and much bloodshed before they found freedom and a safe homeland in their Republic of Natalia. This was only achieved after defeating the Zulu Kingdom, at the Battle of Blood River, which took place on Sunday 16 December 1838. This battle would not have taken place if the Zulu King had honoured the agreement that he had made with the Voortrekkers to live together peacefully. The Zulu king knew that they outnumbered the Voortrekkers and decided to overthrow them and that led to the Battle of Blood River. In January 1840 Prince Mpande finally defeated King Dingane in the Battle of Maqongqe and was subsequently crowned as new king of the Zulu by his alliance partner Andries Pretorius. After these two battles, Dingane's prime minister and commander in the Battle of Blood River, General Ndlela , who had also been Mpande’s personal protector, was strangled to death by Dingane for high treason. Background The carronade used during the battle on an improvised carriage Andries Pretorius brought with him from the Cape. The trekkers—called Voortrekkers after 1880—had to defend themselves after the betrayal murder of chief Trekker leader Piet Retief and his entire entourage, and ten days later the Weenen/Bloukrans massacre where "not a soul was spared." Dingane had agreed that, if Retief could recover approximately 700 head of cattle stolen from the Zulus by the Tlokwa , he would let them have land upon which to establish farms. On 6 February 1838, two days after the signing of a negotiated land settlement deal between Retief and Dingane at UmGungundlovu , written by Jan Gerritze Bantjes (1817–1887) which included Trekker access to Port Natal , which the British also had interest in, Dingane invited Retief and his party into his royal residence for a beer-drinking farewell. The accompanying request for the surrender of Trekker muskets at the entrance was taken as normal protocol when appearing before the king. While the Trekkers were being entertained by Dingane's dancing warriors/soldiers, Dingane suddenly accused the visiting party of witchcraft and ordered his men: "Bulalani abathakathi" (Kill the sorcerers...). Dingane's soldiers bludgeoned Retief's party to death. Immediately after the UmGungundlovu massacre, Dingane sent out his impis (regiments) to attack several Trekker encampments at night time, killing an estimated 500 men, women, children, and servants, most notably at Blaukraans . Help arrived from farmers in the Cape Colony, and the Trekkers in Natal subsequently requested the pro-independence Andries Pretorius to leave the Cape Colony, in order to defend the Voortrekkers who had settled in Natal. After the Battle of Blood River, the Dingane-Retief treaty written by Jan Gerritze Bantjes was found on Retief's bodily remains,[9] providing a driving force for an overt alliance against Dingane between Prince Mpande and Pretorius. War strategies of the generals On 26 November 1838, Andries Pretorius (1798–1853) was appointed as Commander of 64 wagons and 464+ heavily armed Boer combatants directed against Dingane at UmGungundlovu with Jan Gerritze Bantjes (1817–1882) as his war secretary. By December 1838, Prince Mpande and 17,000 followers had already fled from Dingane, who was seeking to assassinate Mpande. In support of Prince Mpande as Dingane's replacement, Pretorius' strategy was to target Dingane only. To allow Prince Mpande to oust King Dingane through military might, Pretorius had first to weaken Dingane's personal military power base in UmGungundlovu. Dingane's royal residence at UmGungundlovu was naturally protected against attack by hilly and rocky terrain all around, as well as an access route via Italeni passing through a narrow gorge called a defile . Earlier on 9 April 1838, a Trekker horse commando without ox wagons, thereafter called the "Flight Commando", had unsuccessfully attempted to penetrate the UmGungundlovu defense at nearby Italeni valley, resulting in the loss of several Trekker lives. Trekker leader Hendrik Potgieter had abandoned all hope of engaging Dingane in UmGungundlovu after losing the battle of Italeni, and subsequently had migrated with his group out of Natal. To approach UmGungundlovu via the Italeni defile with ox wagons would force the wagons into an open column, instead of an enclosed laager as successfully employed defensively at Veglaer on 12 August 1838. The military commander during Dingane's attack on Veglaer was Ndlela kaSompisi . The highly experienced general Ndlela had served under Shaka , and was also prime minister and chief advisor under Dingane. Ndlela with his 10,000 troops had retreated from Veglaer, after three days and nights of fruitless attempts to penetrate the enclosed Trekker wagon laager. General Ndlela personally protected Prince Mpande from Dingane's repeated assassination plans. King Dingane desired to have his half brother Mpande, the only prince with children, eliminated as a threat to his throne. Prince Mpande was married to Msukilethe, a daughter of general Ndlela. General Ndlela, like Pretorius the promoter of Prince Mpande, was responsible for Dingane's UmGungundlovu defense during the Trekkers' second attack attempt under Pretorius in December 1838. Given general Ndlela's previous defense and attack experience at Italeni and Veglaer during April 1838 and August 1838 respectively, Ndlela's tactical options were limited. Proven UmGungundlovu defense tactics were to attack Trekker commandos in the rocky and hilly terrain on the narrowing access route at Italeni, thereby neutralising the advantages mounted riflemen had over spear-carrying foot soldiers.[11] Ndlela had to let Pretorius come close to UmGungundlovu at Italeni and lure the Trekkers into attack. Ndlela was not to attack the Trekkers when they were in a defensive wagon laager position, especially not during the day. The problem for Pretorius was that he had somehow to find a way to make Dingane's soldiers attack him in a defensive laager position at a place of his choice, far away from UmGungundlovu and Italeni. On 6 December 1838, 10 days before the Battle of Blood River, Pretorius and his commando including Alexander Biggar as translator had a meeting with friendly Zulu chiefs at Danskraal , so named for the Zulu dancing that took place in the Zulu kraal that the Trekker commando visited. With the intelligence received at Danskraal, Pretorius became confident enough to propose a vow to God, which demanded the celebration, by the commando and their posterity, of the coming victory over Dingane. The covenant included that a church would be built in honour of God, should the commando be successful and reach UmGungundlovu alive in order to diminish the power of Dingane. Building a church in Trekker emigrant context was symbol for establishing a settled state. After the meeting with friendly Zulu chiefs at Danskraal, Pretorius let the commando relax and do their washing for a few days at Wasbank till 9 December 1838. From Wasbank they slowly and daily moved closer to the site of the Battle of Blood River, practising laager defence tactics every evening for a week long. Then, by halting his advance towards UmGungundlovu on 15 December 1838, 40 km before reaching the defile at Italeni, Pretorius had eliminated the Italeni terrain trap. Location and preparation On Saturday, 15 December 1838, after the Trekker wagons crossed the Buffalo River 10 km SW of the actual battle site and still 80 kilometres (50 mi) from their target UmGungundlovu, an advance scouting party including Pretorius got news of a large Zulu force in rugged terrain to the east trying to lure the Boers into a trap as had been the case in April the same year with fatal consequences. While Cilliers wanted to ride out and attack, Pretorius declined the opportunity to engage Dingane's soldiers away from their base as had been the trap at Italeni valley. Instead, Pretorius decided on a fortified laager on the terrain of his own choosing in the hope that general Ndlela would attack Pretorius on his terms rather than the other way around. As the site for the defensive wagon laager, Pretorius chose a defensible position close to a vertical 8m descent into a deep hippo pool in the Ncombe River providing excellent protection on two sides. The wide-open area to the front of the laager provided absolutely no cover for an attacking force. The battle was set with the laager protected on two flanks. As usual, the ox-wagons were drawn into the typical protective enclosure or laager. Movable wooden barriers and ladders which could be quickly opened for cavalry were fastened between the wagon wheels to prevent intruders, with two smoothbore, short barrel artillery pieces positioned at the corners. Andries Pretorius had brought a 6-pound naval carronade with him from the Cape, mounted on a gun carriage improvised from a wagon axle, and named Grietjie. The other ordnance piece is unknown in the original, but the reproduction depicts a 4-pound smoothbore cannon by then obsolete in most European armies. Both were used to fire devastating grapeshot . As evening approached, a thick mist settled over the wagon site above which the sky was clear. According to Afrikaner traditions, the Zulu were afraid to attack at the night due to superstitions and the eerie glow of lamps which the Boers hung on sjamboks [whip-stocks] around the laager. Whether or not there is any truth in this, historian S.P. Mackenzie has speculated that the Zulu held back until what they perceived as the necessary numbers had arrived. Some of the Zulus only arrived near sunrise by following the tracks of the wagons. Due to some recent heavy rains the Ncombe River was swollen making crossing the river difficult. During the night of 15 December, six Zulu regiments, an estimated 20,000 (or more) Zulu soldiers led by Dambuza (Nzobo), crossed the Ncome River and started massing around the encampment, while the elite forces of senior general Ndlela did not cross the river, thereby splitting the army in two. Battle On 16 December, dawn broke on a clear day, revealing that "all of Zululand sat there", according to one Trekker eyewitness. General Ndlela and his crack troops, the Black and White Shields, remained on the other side of the river, observing Dambuza's men at the laager from a safe position across the hippo pool. According to the South African Department of Art and Culture: In ceremonies that lasted about three days, izinyanga zempi, specialist war doctors, prepared izinteleze medicines which made warriors invincible in the face of their opponents. This could partly help explain why Dambuza's forces were sitting on the ground close to the wagon laager when the Trekkers first saw them. An artist's impression of the Battle of Blood River. Dambuza's regiments repeatedly stormed the laager but could not break through. The attackers were hindered by a change introduced during Shaka's rule that replaced most of the longer throwing spears with short stabbing spears. In close combat the stabbing spear provided obvious advantages over its longer cousin. A Zulu eyewitness said that their first charge was mown down like grass by the Boer muskets. As Bantjes wrote in his journal: Sunday, December 16 was like being newly born for us - the sky was clear, the weather fine and bright. We hardly saw the twilight of the break of day or the guards, who were still at their posts and could just make out the distant Zulus approaching. All the patrols were called back into the laager by firing alarm signals from the cannons. The enemy came forward at full speed and suddenly they had encircled the area around the laager. As it got lighter, so we could see them approaching over their predecessors who had already been shot back. Their rapid approach (though terrifying to witness due to their great numbers) was an impressive sight. The Zulus came in regiments, each captain with his men behind (as the patrols had seen them coming the day before) until they had surrounded us. I could not count them, but I was told that a captive Zulu gave the number at thirty-six regiments, each regiment calculated to be "nine hundred to a thousand men" strong. The battle now began and the cannons unleashed from each gate, such that the battle was fierce and noisy, even the discharging of small arms fire from our marksmen on all sides was like thunder. After more than two hours of fierce battle, the Commander in Chief gave orders that the gates be opened and mounted men sent to fight the enemy in fast attacks, as the enemy near constantly stormed the laager time and again, and he feared the ammunition would soon run out. With the power of their firearms and with their ox wagons in a laager formation and some effective tactics, the Boers fought off the Zulu. Buckshot was used to maximise casualties. Mackenzie claims that 200 indigenous servants looked after the horses and cattle and helped load muskets, but no definite proof or witness of servants helping to reload is available. Writing in the popular Afrikaans magazine Die Huisgenoot , a Dr. D.J. Kotze said that this group consisted of fifty-nine "non-white helpers and followers" instead of the commonly stated two hundred. After two hours and four waves of attack, with the intermittent lulls providing crucial reloading and resting opportunities for the Trekkers, Pretorius ordered a group of horsemen to leave the encampment and engage the Zulu in order to induce the disintegration of their formations. The Zulu withstood the charge for some time, but rapid losses led them to scatter. The Trekkers pursued their fleeing enemies and hunted them down for three hours. Cilliers noted later that "we left the Kafirs lying on the ground as thick almost as pumpkins upon the field that has borne a plentiful crop." Bantjes recorded that about 3,000 dead Zulu had been counted, and three Trekkers were wounded. During the chase, Pretorius was wounded in his left hand by an assegaai (Zulu spear). Of the 3,000 dead Zulu soldiers, two were princes, leaving Ndlela's favourite Prince Mpande as frontrunner in the subsequent battle for the Zulu crown. Four days after the Battle of Blood River, the Trekker commando arrived at King Dingane's great kraal UmGungundlovu (near present-day Eshowe ), only to find it deserted and in ashes. The bones of Retief and his men were found and buried, where a memorial stands today. Up to this day 16 December is a public holiday in South Africa; before 1994 it was known as "the Day of the Vow ", "the Day of the Covenant" and "Dingaan's Day"; but today it is "the Day of Reconciliation " Aftermath The conflict between Dingane and the Trekkers continued for one more year after the Battle of Blood River. The idea of a decisive victory may have been planted in Pretorius' mind by a Zulu prisoner, who said that most of Dingane's warriors had either been killed or fled. The same prisoner led some of the Trekker party into a trap at the White Umfolozi River , eleven days after the battle at Ncome River. This time the Zulu were victorious. Only when Dingane's brother, Mpande , openly joined the Trekker side with his sizeable army, was Dingane finally defeated in January 1840. Following the Battle of Maqongqe in January 1840, the forces of Mpande did not wait for Pretorius' cavalry to arrive, and they attacked the remaining regiments of Dingane, who were again under the command of General Ndlela. Ndlela strayed from normal fighting tactics against Mpande, sending in his regiments to fight one at a time, instead of together in ox horn formation. Maquongqe Dingane had to flee Natal completely, but before he did so, he had Ndlela slowly strangled by cow hide for high treason, on the grounds that he had fought for Mpande, with the same disastrous result for Dingane as at Ncome-Blood River. Dambusa, Dingane's other general, had already been executed by Mpande and Pretorius when he fell into their hands before the battle. Pretorius approved and attended the crowning of Zulu King Mpande in Pietermaritzburg . They agreed on the Tugela River as the border between Zululand and the Republic of Natalia . Legacy Popular Afrikaner interpretations of the Battle of Blood River (bolstered by sympathetic historians such as George Theal ) played a central role in fostering Afrikaner nationalism . They believe that the battle demonstrated God's intervention and hence their divine right to exist as an independent people. This is stated in the official guidebook of the Voortrekker Monument (unveiled during the centenary celebrations of the Great Trek on 16 December 1949) that Afrikaners were a nation of heroes exemplifies the conclusions drawn from such events. From the Day of the Vow, Afrikaners consider the site and the commemoration of the day as sacred. Historian S.P. Mackenzie doubts the reported number of Zulu deaths. He compares Zulu casualties at Ncome to battles at Italeni , Isandlwana , and Rorke's Drift . Mackenzie acknowledges that the casualty count was not impossible. Yet, in a similar victory on 15 October 1836 by Trekkers under Hendrik Potgieter over some 9,000 Matabele , the latter suffered only 350 casualties. In 1879, 600 British soldiers with breech-loading rifles caused 2,000 Zulu casualties, perhaps 1,000 killed over three hours before being overrun Ncome/Blood River monument Laager at the Blood River Memorial A church, called "the Church of the Vow ", was built in the Natal town of Pietermaritzburg in 1841, where Pretorius settled on the farm "Welverdient" (English: "Well-earned"), a gift from the Trekkers. A monument was erected on the site of the battle in 1947, consisting of an ox wagon executed in granite by the sculptor Coert Steynberg . In 1971 a laager of 64 ox wagons cast in bronze (by Unifront Foundry in Edenvale – Fanie de Klerk and Jack Cowlard) was erected, and unveiled on 16 December 1972. A stone representation at the Voortrekker Monument of the Laager formed at the Battle of Blood River The Ncome monument on the east side of the river commemorates the fallen Zulu warriors. While the Blood River Memorial is associated with Afrikaner nationalism, the Ncome monument was intended as a symbol of reconciliation—but has become connected with Zulu nationalism. At 16 December 1998 inauguration of the most recent version of the monument, the Zulu politician and then Minister of Home Affairs , Mangosuthu Buthelezi , apologised to the Afrikaner nation for the death of Piet Retief and the subsequent suffering. At the same time Buthelezi also noted the suffering of the Zulus during Apartheid . He stressed that South Africans needed to consider the day as "a new covenant which binds us to the shared commitment of building a new country." Today two complexes mark the battle site: the Ncome Monument and Museum Complex east of the Ncome River, and the Blood River Monument and Museum Complex to the west. Ndlela monument South Africa's ex-president, Jacob Zuma , attended the official inauguration of the Ndlela monument in Eshowe, Kwazulu-Natal. President Cyril Ramaphosa's 2019 speech On the Day of Reconciliation 2019, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa described the Voortrekkers as invaders and the Zulu army as "Freedom Fighters". Dirk Hermann, managing director of the trade union Solidarity , criticised this historical claim as inaccurate and as a "criminalisation of Afrikaner history", and emphasised the reconciliatory message of politician Mangosuthu Buthelezi . December 16, 1838 Short Introduction of the Battle Battle of Blood River, (December 16, 1838), battle between the Zulu and the Voortrekker Boers in South Africa. Its proximate cause was a clash over land rights in Natal and the massacre of Voortrekkers by the Zulu king Dingane. Context In the early 1800s the British colonized the Cape, sending Boer farmers in South Africa looking for areas outside of British rule. These people became known as Voortrekkers (Afrikaans: “Early Migrants”). The Voortrekker migration initially faced little resistance and eventually reached Natal, an area primarily occupied by the Zulu people. Conflict between the Voortrekkers and the Zulu began with negotiations over the proposed purchase of land in Natal. In November 1837 the Voortrekkers met with Dingane, the king of the Zulu. Dingane reportedly granted the Voortrekkers land between the Tugela River and the Mzimvubu River in the south, on the condition that they retrieve cattle stolen by the rebel chief Sikyonela. Piet Retief, leader of the Voortrekkers, agreed to this, and he and his men completed the task that was asked of them. They also took additional horses, cattle, and guns from Sikyonela and his people to supplement the Voortrekkers’ supplies. Dingane demanded that Retief deliver this additional booty to him, and Retief responded with a letter that invoked a previous Voortrekker military success over the Ndebele. Dingane interpreted this thinly veiled threat as evidence of a Voortrekker plot against him. When the Voortrekkers arrived with the cattle and horses they had retrieved, Dingane pretended to welcome them with open arms. He is said to have granted a treaty for the land but planned to kill the Boers before they could settle there. Dingane invited Retief and his men to a farewell celebration that would take place the next day, asking them to leave their weapons behind as a sign of respect. Ignoring the warnings of fellow Voortrekkers who suspected that treachery was afoot, Retief arrived the next day with approximately 69 followers to partake in celebrations. After traditional dances and celebrations, Dingane commanded his people to kill the Voortrekkers. Chaos commenced, and all the Voortrekkers present were killed, including Retief. Dingane then moved against the rest of the Voortrekker population, which had encroached into Zulu territory. With approximately 15,000 men, he marched to the foot of the Drakensberg mountains, where the Voortrekkers had built their laagers (encampments). The Zulu wiped these camps out swiftly, killing a number of women and children in the process. The Voortrekkers responded by marching on the Zulu capital of Mgungundlovu with a force under commandants Dirk Uys and Andries Potgieter. Along the way, they were attacked by the Zulu at Ithaleni, and Uys and many of his men were killed. Exhausted, the remaining Voortrekkers prepared for defeat. The Zulu attacked again on August 12, 1838, but this time the Voortrekkers were able to hold their own. The three-day engagement ended in a Zulu defeat, and the Voortrekkers’ spirits were lifted. Andries Pretorius took command of the Voortrekker forces and led them into Zululand on the offensive. Battle of Blood River, or Battle of Ncome River Monument marking the site of the Battle of Blood River in South Africa. The monument features 64 bronze wagons arranged as they were during the battle on December 16, 1838. A museum on the site provides the Voortrekker view of the battle, while across the Ncome River the Ncome Museum offers the Zulu perspective. Andries Pretorius took command of the Voortrekker forces and led them into Zululand on the offensive. Knowing that they were outnumbered, the Voortrekkers abandoned their plan of a direct assault on the Zulu capital. With the odds against them, the Voortrekkers made a vow to the Christian God: if they won the coming battle, they would build a church and celebrate the day as a holiday. According to Boer tradition, this ritual was performed each night until they reached the Zulu. When news arrived that the Zulu were approaching, the Voortrekkers took a position near the Ncome River. The site was strategically advantageous, as it was protected by a ravine to the south. On December 15, 1838, the Zulu attempted to cross the Ncome, but only half of the 15,000 men were able to, perhaps because of misty weather conditions. The next morning, the Zulu attacked, despite the fact that half their force remained on the other side of the river. The Voortrekkers were able to check the charging Zulu forces with their guns and cannons. After running out of ammunition, Pretorius sent 300 men on horseback to split the remaining Zulu army. The Zulu retreated at nightfall. Seeing that the Ncome River was red with the blood of fallen Zulu warriors, the Boers gave it the Afrikaans name Bloedrivier (Blood River). Aftermath Pretorius and the Voortrekkers arrived at Mgungundlovu on December 20, 1838, only to discover that it had been destroyed. Near the capital, on KwaMatiwane hill, the Voortrekker troops found the remains of Retief and his men. Retief was supposedly found with the treaty ceding land to the Voortrekkers still intact on his person, although contemporary historians question the veracity of this claim. Dingane fled to Swaziland, only to be killed by local chiefs. The Voortrekkers, intent on keeping their vow, built a church in Pietermaritzburg (named after their two fallen leaders, Retief and Gerrit Maritz). December 16 was celebrated as “Dingane’s Day” until 1910, when it was renamed “Day of the Vow.” After the end of apartheid in 1994, December 16 was renamed the “Day of Reconciliation” and is meant to foster a sense of national unity and racial harmony. Pietermaritzburg South Africa Written and fact-checked by Article History Pietermaritzburg Town hall in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa. Pietermaritzburg, South Africa Pietermaritzburg, city, capital of KwaZulu-Natal province, South Africa. It lies in the Msunduzi River valley, at the base of a tree-covered escarpment inland from Durban. Boers from the Cape Colony founded it in 1838 after a victory over the Zulus at Blood River and named it to honor their dead leaders Piet Retief and Gerrit Maritz. The British took control in 1843 and built Fort Napier (now a historical monument). Pietermaritzburg was incorporated in 1854 and was the capital of Natal (now KwaZulu-Natal) province from 1856 to 1994. It was co-capital with Ulundi of KwaZulu-Natal from 1994 to 1995, when Ulundi was designated the capital. This was reversed in 2004, when Pietermaritzburg was once again declared the capital of the province. Pietermaritzburg is known as the “City of Flowers” for its azaleas and roses and because it is the site of one of the country’s National Botanical Gardens. Butterflies for Africa, a butterfly conservation centre, is also in Pietermaritzburg. Other attractions are Alexandra Park, Wylie Park, the Bisley Nature Reserve, Queen Elizabeth Park, and many recreational facilities. At an elevation of 2,218 feet (676 meters), the city is a gateway to KwaZulu-Natal’s many game reserves and mountain resorts. Pietermaritzburg shares with Durban the University of KwaZulu-Natal (1910). There are many well-preserved late 19th-century government buildings in the city, such as the historic Old Supreme Court building, now home to the Tatham Art Gallery. Other cultural attractions include the Natal Museum; the Msunduzi Museum, which includes the Voortrekker Complex; and the KwaZulu-Natal Railway Museum. Pietermaritzburg is a growing business and industrial center. Its industries include the manufacture of furniture, footware, and aluminum ware and the processing of wattle extract. It has excellent highway and rail connections to Durban. Pop. (1996) urban agglom., 378,126; (2001) mun., 553,223. Natal historical province, South Africa Also known as: Terra Natalis Written and fact-checked by Article History historic provinces of South Africa Major Events: Battle of Blood River Battles of Isandlwana and Rorke's Drift South Africa Act Great Trek Key People: Louis Botha Sir Theophilus Shepstone Andries Pretorius John Colenso Piet Retief Related Places: South Africa KwaZulu-Natal Hluhluwe Game Reserve Saint Lucia Game Reserve Natal, former province of South Africa. It was the smallest of the four traditional provinces and occupied the southeastern part of the country. The Portuguese navigator Vasco de Gama sighted the coast along what is now Durban on Christmas Day in 1497 and named the country Terra Natalis, after the Portuguese word (“Natal”) for Christmas. The Portuguese maintained a trading settlement farther north at Delagoa Bay from the 1540s. The interior of Natal had been occupied since the 16th century by the Nguni branch of the Bantu-speaking peoples. In the 1820s and ’30s the Zulu clan of the Nguni, under the successive leadership of Dingiswayo (1807–17), Shaka (1817–28), and Dingane (1828–40), developed highly trained regiments and new fighting tactics that enabled the Zulus to establish a powerful kingdom north of the Tugela River . Shaka launched devastating military campaigns south of the Tugela River that disrupted or destroyed the peoples in that area. Those not killed or conscripted by the Zulus fled to other regions or went into hiding, leaving much of the region temporarily depopulated. In the meantime, the British had established a trading post at Port Natal (now Durban) in 1824, and that same year they signed a treaty with Shaka ceding them Port Natal and about 50 miles (80 km) of coastline to a depth of 100 miles (160 km) inland. The British made little attempt to develop the interior, which continued to be decimated by the Zulus. BACK TO THE TOP OF THE PAGE

South African Flag Songs South Africa’s national anthem is a musical diamond, being the only neo-modal national anthem in the world. But what does that mean, and what are the lyrics? South Africa’s national anthem combines new English lyrics with extracts from the 19th-century hymn ‘Nkosi Sikelel’ iAfrika’ and the Afrikaans song ‘Die Stem van Suid-Afrika’. ‘Nkosi Sikelel’ iAfrika (Lord, Bless Africa)’ is the official anthem of the African National Congress, while ‘Die Stem van Suid-Afrika (The Call of South Africa)’ was the country’s national anthem during Apartheid. When South Africa won the Rugby World Cup back in 1995, the songs were as usual heard alongside each other – and the powers-that-be decided to finally acknowledge both songs as national anthems. Two years later, they merged into one song. Today, South Africa’s anthem is the only neo-modal national anthem in the world, meaning it is the only one that starts in one key and finishes in another. Read more: The greatest national anthems in the world The South African national anthems What are the lyrics to South Africa’s national anthem? South Africa’s national anthem features five of the most widely spoken of the country’s eleven official languages – Xhosa, Zulu, Sesotho, Afrikaans and English. You can find all the lyrics below, along with an English translation beside each line. Language: isiXhosa and isiZulu Nkosi Sikelel' iAfrika (God Bless Africa) Maluphakanyisw' uphondo lwayo, (Raise high Her glory) Yizwa imithandazo yethu, (Hear our Prayers) Nkosi sikelela, thina lusapho lwayo (God bless us, we her children) Language: Sesotho Morena boloka setjhaba sa heso, (God protect our nation) O fedise dintwa le matshwenyeho, (End all wars and tribulations) O se boloke, O se boloke setjhaba sa heso, (Protect us, protect our nation) Setjhaba sa South Afrika - South Afrika. (Our nation South Africa - South Africa) Language: Afrikaans Uit die blou van onse hemel, (Ringing out from our blue heavens) Uit die diepte van ons see, (From the depth of our seas) Oor ons ewige gebergtes, (Over our everlasting mountains) Waar die kranse antwoord gee, (Where the echoing crags resound) Language: English Sounds the call to come together, And united we shall stand, Let us live and strive for freedom, In South Africa our land. "The Call of South Africa" Ringing out from our blue heavens, From our deep seas breaking round; Over everlasting mountains, Where the echoing crags resound; From our plains where creaking wagons Cut their trails into the earth, Calls the spirit of our country, Of the land that gave us birth. At thy call we shall not falter, Firm and steadfast we shall stand, At thy will to live or perish, O South Africa, dear land. In our body and our spirit, In our inmost heart held fast; In the promise of our future, And the glory of our past; In our will, our work, our striving, From the cradle to the grave – There's no land that shares our loving, And no bond that can enslave. Thou hast borne us and we know thee, May our deeds to all proclaim Our enduring love and service To thy honour and thy name. In the golden warmth of summer, In the chill of winter's air, In the surging life of springtime, In the autumn of despair; When the wedding bells are chiming Or when those we love do depart, Thou dost know us for thy children And dost take us to thy heart Loudly peals the answering chorus: We are thine, and we shall stand, Be it life or death, to answer To thy call, beloved land. In thy power, Almighty, trusting, Did our fathers build of old; Strengthen then, O Lord, their children To defend, to love, to hold – That the heritage they gave us For our children yet may be: Bondsmen only to the Highest[a] And before the whole world free. As our fathers trusted humbly, Teach us, Lord to trust Thee still: Guard our land and guide our people In Thy way to do Thy will. Literal translation of "Die Stem van Suid-Afrika" From the blue of our heavens From the depths of our sea, Over our eternal mountain ranges Where the cliffs give an echo. Through our far-deserted plains With the groan of ox-wagon – Rises the voice of our beloved, Of our country South Africa. We will answer to your calling, We will offer what you ask: We will live, we will die – We for Thee, South Africa. In the marrow of our bones, In our heart and soul and spirit, In the glory of our past, In our hope of what will be. In our will and work and wander, From our crib to our grave – Share no other land our love, No other loyalty can sway us. Fatherland! We will bear the nobility, Of your name with honour: Dedicated and true as Afrikaners – Children of South Africa. In the sunglow of our summer, In our winter night's cold, In the spring of our love, In the autumn of our sorrow. At the sound of wedding bells, At the stonefall on the coffin – Soothes your voice us never in vain, You know where your children are. At your call we never say no, We always, always say yes: To live, to die – Yes, we come, South Africa. On your almight steadfast entrusted Had our fathers built: Give to us also the strength, o Lord! To sustain and to preserve – That the heritage of our fathers For our children heritage remain: Servants of the almighty, Against the whole world free. As our fathers trusted, Teach us also to trust, o Lord – With our land and with our nation It will be well, God reigns. History National anthems of South Africa "God Save the King"1901–1952 "Die Stem van Suid-Afrika"1938–1952 "God Save the Queen"1952–1957 "Die Stem van Suid-Afrika"1952–1994 "Nkosi Sikelel' iAfrika "1994–1997 "Die Stem van Suid-Afrika"1994–1997 "National anthem of South Africa "1997–present Duration: 2 minutes and 12 seconds.2:12 A 1938 recording of "Die Stem van Suid-Afrika" being performed by the ASAF Choir, featuring the first and last verses. Duration: 1 minute and 5 seconds.1:05 Mid-20th century recording of "Die Stem van Suid-Afrika" being performed by the South African Air Force Band. Duration: 5 minutes and 7 seconds.5:07 "Die Stem van Suid-Afrika"'s all four stanzas sung by a choir in the mid-20th century Duration: 5 minutes and 19 seconds.5:19 "The Call of South Africa" all four stanzas sung by a choir in the mid-20th century in English Duration: 1 hour, 23 minutes and 52 seconds.1:23:52 "Die Stem van Suid-Afrika" performed by a US military band in 1994 as part of an official state visit by South African president Nelson Mandela to the US capital of Washington, DC. Background and inception In May 1918, C.J. Langenhoven wrote an Afrikaans poem called "Die Stem", for which music was composed in 1921 by Marthinus Lourens de Villiers [af ], a reverend.The music composed that ended up being accepted was actually a second version; the first did not satisfy Langenhoven. It was widely used by the South African Broadcasting Corporation in the 1920s, which played it at the close of daily broadcasts, along with "God Save The King ". It was recorded for the first time in 1926 when its first and third verses were performed by Betty Steyn in England for the Zonophone record label it was sung publicly for the first time on 31 May 1928 at a raising of the new South African national flag . In 1938, South Africa proclaimed it to be one of the two co-national anthems of the country, along with "God Save the King ". It was sung in English as well as Afrikaans from 1952 onward, with both versions having official status in the eyes of the state, while "God Save the Queen " did not cease to be a co-national anthem until May 1957, when it was dropped from that role. However, it remained the country's royal anthem until 1961, as it was a Commonwealth realm until that point. The poem originally had only three verses, but the government asked the author to add a fourth verse with a religious theme. The English version is for the most part a faithful translation of the Afrikaans version with a few minor changes. Composition It is uplifting in tone, addressing throughout of commitment to the Vaderland (English: Fatherland) and to God . However, it was generally disliked by black South Africans , who saw it as triumphalist and strongly associated it with the apartheid regime where one verse shows dedication to Afrikaners (though the specific mention of Afrikaners is omitted in the English version to avoid alienating the British-descent Anglophone whites living in South Africa as they are not considered Afrikaners) and another to the Great Trek of the Voortrekkers . P. W. Botha , who was the state president of South Africa during the 1980s, was fond of the song and made his entourage sing it when they visited Switzerland during his presidency. Decline As the dismantling of apartheid began in the early 1990s, South African teams were readmitted to international sporting events, which presented a problem as to the choice of national identity South Africa had to present. Agreements were made with the African National Congress (ANC) that "Die Stem van Suid-Afrika" would not be sung at rugby matches, due to its connection to the apartheid system and minority rule (which led the ANC and other such groups at the time to view the song as offensive). However, at a rugby union test match against New Zealand in 1992 , the crowd spontaneously sang "Die Stem" during a moment of silence for victims of political violence in South Africa, and although it was ostensibly agreed upon beforehand that it would not be played, an instrumental recording of "Die Stem" was played over the stadium's PA system's loudspeakers after the New Zealand national anthem was performed, and spectators sang along, sparking controversy afterwards. Although it remained the official national anthem of the state during this time period, both the usage of it and the then-national flag began to dwindle whenever possible, particularly overseas. For example, at the 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona that year, Schiller's "Ode to Joy ", as set to Beethoven 's music, was used instead of it, along with a neutral Olympic-style flag instead of the South African flag at the time. "Die Stem van Suid-Afrika"'s future seemed in doubt as the country prepared to transition to majority rule , with many predicting that it would not remain after the transition into the new democratic dispensation. In 1993, a commission sought out a new national anthem for South Africa, with 119 entries being suggested, but none were chosen. Instead, it was decided to retain "Die Stem"'s official status after the advent of full multi-racial democracy which followed the 1994 general election . When the old South African flag was lowered for the last time at the parliament building in Cape Town , "Die Stem" was performed in Afrikaans and then in English as the new South African flag was raised. After 1994, it shared equal status with "Nkosi Sikelel' iAfrika ", which had long been a traditional hymn used by the ANC. In 1995, "Die Stem van Suid-Afrika" was sung by a black choir at the Rugby World Cup final match, as it had been done at the 1994 South African presidential inauguration in Pretoria, first in Afrikaans and then in English. Consolidation The practice of singing two different national anthems had been a cumbersome arrangement during the transition to post-apartheid South Africa . On most occasions, it was usually the first verse of "Die Stem van Suid-Afrika" that was sung at ceremonies, in both official languages prior to 1994, with some English medium schools in what was then Natal Province singing the first verse in Afrikaans and the second in English. During this period of two national anthems, the custom was to play both "Die Stem" and "Nkosi Sikelel' iAfrika" during occasions that required the playing of a national anthem. However, this proved cumbersome as performing the dual national anthems took as much as five minutes to conclude. In 1997, with the adoption of a new national constitution, a new composite national anthem was introduced, which combined part of "Nkosi Sikelel 'iAfrika" and part of "Die Stem van Suid-Afrika" into a single composition in order to form a new hybrid song. Legacy Since the end of apartheid and the adoption of a new national anthem in the 1990s, the status of "Die Stem" has become somewhat controversial in contemporary South Africa, due to its connection with the apartheid regime and white minority rule. Although elements of it are used in the current South African national anthem, in recent years some South Africans have called for those segments to be removed due to their connection with apartheid, whereas others defend the inclusion of it, as it was done for post-apartheid re-conciliatory reasons. When "Die Stem" was mistakenly played by event organisers in place of the current South African national anthem during a UK-hosted women's field hockey match in 2012, it sparked outrage and confusion among the South African staff members and players present. The Afrikaans version remains popular with Afrikaner nationalists [60] and far-right organisations such as the Afrikaner Weerstandsbeweging , where it is sometimes performed at the funerals of such groups' members or at demonstrations by them. Die Stem was also the name of a far-right periodical during the apartheid era. Oranje-blanje-blou Oranje-blanje-blou (Afrikaans for Orange, white and blue) refers, of course, to the old South African flag used between 1928 and 1994. This song was popular especially among Afrikaners when this flag flew over South Africa. The tune is by Henry Hugh Pierson (they don't say whether it was borrowed from this composer), and the lyrics are by an Afrikaans poet who wrote under the name Eitemal. The attribution for the text reads: "EITEMAL na: ,,O.D., hoch in Ehren''. (There is a commonly used style of quotation marks, primarily German but often used in Afrikaans, that opens a quote with commas rather than the more familiar "inverted commas"). The title simply gives the colours of the 1928 South African flag, or, more strictly, the Dutch Princenvlag: orange, white and blue. (I am not certain of the derivation of "blanje", since it is not used in ordinary spoken Afrikaans, but I would guess that it is a form of the French "blanc", white). The text reads: Die Hoogland is ons woning, die land van son en veld, waar woeste vryheidswinde waai oor graf van meenge held. Die ruimtes het ons siel gevoed, ons kan g'n slawe wees, want vryer as die arendsvlug, die vlugte van ons gees. Chorus: Dis die tyd, (repeated) dis die dag, (repeated) om te handhaaf en te bou. Hoog die hart, (repeated) hoog die vlag, (repeated) hoog Oranje-blanje-blou! Ons gaan saam die donker toekoms in om as een te sneuwel of oorwin, met ons oog gerig op jou, ons Oranje-blanje-blou! (Note: In the sixth line [hoog Oranje-blanje-blou], there is an echo of "blou, blanje-blou!") Die ruwe berge-reekse staan hoog teen awendlug, soos gryse ewighede daar versteen, verstyf in vlug. En stewig soos die grou graniet ons Boeretrots en -trou, die fondament warop ond hier 'n nuwe nasie bou. (Chorus) Die God van onse vaders het ons hierheen gelei ons dien sy grootse skeppings-plan, solank ons Boere bly. Ons buig ons hoof voor Hom alleen; en as Hy ons verhoor omgord ons bly die lendene: Die toekoms wink daar voor. Translation (off the cuff - any improvements welcome). Note: the reference to Hoogland (translated here as highlands) is probably poetic licence for Highveld (Afrikaans Hoe"veld), a region which includes large parts of both the former Transvaal Province (Zuid- Afrikaansche Republiek) and the current Free State Province (the old Oranje Vrij Staat). The highlands are our home, the land of sun and veld, where wild winds of freedom blow over [the] grave of many a hero. The open spaces have fed our souls, we cannot be slaves [literaaly "we can be no slaves"] as freer than the eagle's flight, the flights of our spirit. Chorus: It's the time, it's the day, to maintain and to build. High the heart, high the flag, high Orange-white-blue! We go together into the dark future together to die or win, with our eye fixed on you, our Orange-white-blue! (Sneuwel means literally to die in warfare; oorwin means to win in battle.) The rugged mountain ranges stand high against the evening light like petrified grey eternities there, stiffened in flight. And firmly like the grey granite our Boer pride and loyalty, the foundation upon which we here are building a new nation. (The word awendlug [evening air] seems to be an error; it seems more logical to say awendlig [evening light]; awend is a poetic form [harking back to Dutch] for the more usual Afrikaans "aand"). The God of our fathers led us here, we serve his mighty creation plan, as long as we Boers remain. Webend our heads before Him alone; and if He hears us we gird our loins joyfully: The future waves us on. (Source: The FAK [Federasie van Afrikaanse Kultuurvereninge] Sangbunde). Mike Oettle, 06 Feb 2004 Ons Vlag Nou waai ons Vlag en wapper fier! Sy kleure is ons vreugde; hul skoonheid spoor ons harte aan tot ware, ed'le deugde. Oranje dui op heldemoed wat krag vind by die Here; die Blanje eis 'n rein gemoed; die Blou verg trou en ere. Ons Vlag bly steeds ons eenheidsband. Al kom ook sware tye; dis God wat waak oor Volk en Land, Suid-Afrika ons eie. Translation: Now our flag waves and flaps bravely! Its colours are our joy; their beauty encourages our hearts to true, noble virtues. Orange stands for heroic courage which draws strength from the Lord; the White demands a pure attitude; the Blue wants loyalty and honour. Our flag remains our bond of unity. Even if times get hard; it's God who watches over Nation and Land, South Africa our own. The forms "sware" (where "swaar" would be the usual way of speaking), "ed'le" (for "edele") and "ere" (for "eer") are poetic forms, adaptations to the scansion. The same goes for the word "meen'ge" in Oranje-blanje-blou, which would normally be "menige". (Source: The FAK [ Federasie van Afrikaanse Kultuurvereninge] Sangbunde). Mike Oettle, 10 Feb 2004 DIE VLAGLIED Die betekenis van 'n eie nasionale vlag word n�rens mooier en treffender besing as in die woorde van C.J. Langenhoven se Vlaglied nie. Die Vlaglied is slegs die laaste strofe van die gedig �Ons eie vlag�. Dit is deur F.J. Joubert getoonset. Nooit hoef jou kinders wat trou is te vra: Wat beteken jou vlag dan, Suid-Afrika? Ons weet hy's die se�l van ons vryheid en reg Vir naaste en vreemde,vir oorman en kneg; Die pand van ons erf'nis,geslag op geslag, Om te hou vir ons kinders se kinders wat wag; Ons nasie se grondbrief van eiendomsland, Uitgegee op gesag van die Hoogste se hand. Oor ons hoof sal ons hys, in ons hart sal ons dra, Die vlag van ons eie Suid-Afrika. Which I translate as follows: THE FLAG SONG Nowhere the meaning of an own national flag is expressed more beautifully and fittingly than in the words of C.J. Langenhoven's Flag Song. This is the last stanza of the poem �Ons eie vlag� (Our own flag). It was set to music by F.J. Joubert. Never your children so faithful need ask: What does you flag mean then, South Africa? We know it's the seal of our freedom and rights For neighbour and stranger, for servant and boss; The pledge of our heritage, from parent to child To keep for our children's children to be The writ of our nation of the right to the land. That was written on authority of the Highest own hand We'll hoist ov'r our heads, and we'll hold in our heart The flag of our dearest South Africa Peter Hans van den Muijzenberg, 31 Aug 2007 De Vlaamse Leeuw This song is an odd one to find in the FAK Sangbundel, since its title translates as "The Flemish Lion" and the language is Dutch, definitely not Afrikaans. Clearly, it was included because, centuries after the Eighty Years War, the symbol of Flanders still finds a resonance with Afrikaner descendants of those Protestant Flemings who fled Spanish rule and went to live in the Seven Provinces. The words are credited to T H van Peene, and the tune to K Mirij, arrangement by Dirkie de Villiers (son of M L de Villiers, the composer of the music to Die Stem van Suid-Afrika, the former South African national anthem). There are two verses and a refrain: Zij zullen hem niet temmen, de fiere Vlaamse Leeuw, al dreigen zij zijn vrijheid met kluisters en geschreeuw. Zij zullen hem niet temmen, zolang e'e'n Vlaming leeft, zolang de Leeuw kan klauwen, zolang hij tanden heeft. Refrain: Zij zullen him niet temmen zolang e'e'n Vlaming leeft, zolang de Leeuw kan klauwen, zolang hij tanden heeft, zolang de Leeuw kan klauwen, zolang hij tanden heeft. De tijd verslindt de steden, geen tronen blijven staan, de legerbenden sneven, een volk zal niet vergaan. De vijand trekt te velde, omringd van doodsgevaar. Wij lachen met zijn woede, die Vlaamse Leeuw is daar. Here's an attempt at a translation: They won't tame him, the proud Flemish Lion, even if they threaten his freedom with chains and shouting. They will not be able to tame him as long as even one Fleming lives, as long as the Lion can claw, as long as he has teeth. Refrain: They will not tame him, the proud Flemish Lion, as long as one Fleming lives, as long as the Lion has claws, as long as he has teeth, as long as the Lion has claws, as long as he has teeth. Time eats up the cities, no thrones last forever, the armed companies die in battle, a people will not disappear. The enemy goes out to war, surrounded by deadly danger. We laugh at his anger, the Flemish Lion is there. I have written the word een as e'e'n - each 'e' carries an acute accent. This emphasises the word, giving the meaning "even if only one Fleming is left alive". The word verslindt means to destroy by eating - this verb is used literally only of animals (never humans) and, poetically, of things that destroy in like manner. I am not certain that I have the right word for "kluisters" - I don't have a dictionary at hand as I write this - and would be grateful if some Dutch correspondent would check that. "Geschreeuw" can mean either shouting or screaming, but shouting seems more appropriate. In the second verse, "de legerbenden sneven" - "leger" means army, but "armed companies" seems to fit better with "benden" or bands. "Sneven" (in Afrikaans "sneuwel") means to die in war or in battle (rather than dying of disease, another common way in which soldiers have traditionally lost their lives). I have rendered "een volk" as "a people", but "a nation" could also be appropriate. "Trekt te velde" means literally to go out into the fields, but its application to an enemy means that it is out on campaign (after all, campaign comes from a word meaning "fields", also). Mike Oettle, 02 Mar 2004 Words and tune of this song were created 1847, one of the most difficult times for Flemish identity and Dutch language in Belgium. Since 1973 it has been the official hymn of the Vlaamse Gemeenschap (Flemish Community). More information (in Dutch) can be found at: http://docs.vlaanderen.be/channels/hoofdmenu/vlaamseoverheid/volkslied.jsp In 20th Century Protestant, and probably also Catholic, songbooks in the (Northern) Netherlands the song was a standard item. It was one of the first tunes I learnt to play on the piano (after listening to my grandfather playing it on his organ). Gerard van der Vaart, 03 Mar 2004 I may add that the original version was deliberatly transposed (lowered, I believe) at the moment of adoption by the (then) Flemish Community so as to start with the same note as the Dutch hymn, 'Wilhelmus'. As can be seen on the link provided, the flag relation is mainly prescribed usage; the Lion is present metaphorically. "Kluisters" are shackles, but "chains" is all right. There are some who think that the song is old-fashioned, preferring "Waar Maas en Schelde vloeien" (Where Maas/Meuse and Scheldt are flowing"). In the recent past, song festivals such as the "Vlaams Nationaal Zangfeest" (Flemish National Songfest") ended by singing the 'Vlaamse Leeuw', the 'Wilhelmus', and 'Die Stem van Suid-Afrika'. Jan Mertens, 03 Mar 2004 Transvaalse Volkslied The Transvaalse Volkslied, although the official anthem of the Zuid-Afrikaansche Republiek and when the territory was officially called Transvaal (1879-81and 1901 onwards), it was not well thought of by the authorities. The words and music of the Transvaalse Volkslied are by Catharina F van Rees, and it is dated 1875 - surprisingly it dates to the period before the annexation of 1879, since the emotions seem to blend well with those of the victorious rebels of 1881. Possibly this date accounts for the song's non-avoidance of the word Transvaal, which was the name of the state so strongly rejected in the uprising of 1880-81. The arrangement is by G G Cillie'. (There is an acute accent on the final letter in this surname; it is pronounced "Sil-yee". The surname is French, although its spelling is no longer authentically French; other members of this family spell it as Cilliers or Celliers.) The language is Dutch. (As mentioned previously, Afrikaans was the spoken language of all the 19th-century Boer republics, but was hardly ever written, and was not generally well thought of by those who had been educated in either English or Dutch.) Kent gij dat volk vol heldenmoed en toch zo lang geknecht? Het heeft geofferd goed en bloed voor vryheid en voor recht. Komt burgers! laat de vlaggen wapp'ren, ons lijden is voorbij; roemt in die zege onzer dapp'ren: Dat vrije volk zijn wij! Dat vrije volk, dat vrije volk, dat vrije, vrije volk zijn wij! Kent gij dat land, zo schaars bezocht en toch zo heerlik schoon; waar de natuur haar wond'ren wrocht, en kwistig stelt ten toon? Transvalers! laat ons feestlied schallen! Daar waar ons volk hield stand, waar onze vreugdeschoten knallen, daar is ons vaderland! Dat heerlik land, dat heerlik land, dat is, dat is ons vaderland! Kent gij die Staat, nog maar een kind in's werelds Statenrij, maar tog door 't machtig Brits bewind weleer verklaard voor vrij? Transvalers! edel was uw streven, en pijnlik onze smaad, maar God die uitkomst heeft gegeven, zij lof voor d'eigen Staat! Looft onze God! Looft onze God! Looft onze God voor land en Staat! Now for a translation (again lease excuse and correct! any errors): Do you know the people full of heroic courage and yet so long servants? It has offered possessions and blood for freedom and for justice. Come, citizens, let the flags wave, our suffering is past; be joyous in the victory of our brave ones; We are the free people! The free people, the free people, the free, free people are we! Do you know the land, so seldom visited, and yet so wonderfully beautiful; where nature has wrought her wonders, and profligately puts them on display? Transvalers! let our festival song resound! There were our people stood fast, where our gunshots of joy resound, there is our fatherland, That wonderful land, that wonderful land, that is, that is our fatherland! Do you know the State, yet still a child among the States of the world, but nontheless by the mighty British power truly declared as free? Transvalers! Noble was your struggle, and painful our suffering, but God has given the outcome, and praise for our own State! Praise our God! Praise our God! Praise our God! Praise our God for land and State! In the first verse, "wapp'ren" and "dapp'ren" are poetic forms that omit the middle vowel. The same goes for "wond'ren" in the second verse. "Geknecht" means "reduced to the state of servants" (not quite slaves). In the third verse the word Statenrij has no exact equivalent in English, although English occasionally uses the same construction of ending a word with -ry to form a noun from a shorter one, as in "heraldry". "Statenrij" is perhaps best rendered as "the multitude of States" or "the variety of States" (independent states, that is). "Door't" is a typically Dutch construction which has disappeared from Afrikaans, except in one or two idioms, where the definite object "het" is reduced to its final letter and (sometimes) tagged onto the previous word. (North country English has a comparable usage, although this is a shortening of "the".) Mike Oettle, 04 Mar 2004 Vryheidslied On flipping through the FAK book I came across a song. The title is Vryheidslied. The lyrics are by Jan F E Celliers, and the music by Emiel Hullebroeck. The words are: Vrome vad're, fier en groot Deur vervolging, ramp en nood, was hul leuse, tot die dood: Vryheid! Vryheid! Erf'nis van hul moed en trou is die grond waar ons op bou. Juigend tot die hemel-blou: Vryheid! Vryheid! Ere wie die dood mag lei om te rus aan hulle sy, met die sterwenswoord te skei: Vryheid! Vryheid! Op dan, broers, en druk hul spoor, voorwaarts, broers, die vaandel voor, laat die veld ons krygsroep hoor: Vryheid! Vryheid! Woes geweld mag hoogty hou, kettings mag ons lede knou, maar die leuse bly ons trou: Vryheid! Vryheid! Jukke mag vir slawe wees, manneharte ken geen vrees, duld geen boei vir lyf of gees: Vryheid! Vryheid! Now the English translation: Pious fathers (ancestors), proud and brave Through persecution, disaster and need their motto, to the death, was: Freedom! Freedom! The heritage of their courage and faith is the land we build on. Joyful to the blue heavens: Freedom! Freedom! Honours to those led by death to rest at its side, uttering their final word: Freedom! Freedom! Up, then, brothers, and follow their tracks, forwards, brothers, the banner in front, may the veld hear our battle cry: Freedom! Freedom! Brutal force might with the day, chains may chafe our limbs, but to this motto we are faithful: Freedom! Freedom! Yokes may be for slaves, the hearts of men know no fear, tolerating no shackles for body or soul: Freedom! Freedom! Notes: The word "vader" translates as "father", and its usual plural is "vaders" ("fathers"). The plural form "vadere" (here poetically shortened to "vad're") means "ancestors". The word "lede" means "members", but is here an abbreviation of "ledemate" ("body parts" or "limbs"). "Ledemate" is used also of members of a church community, a reference to St Paul's description of the Church as being the Body of Christ, made up of people with different functions. The ordinary translation of "vaandel" is "ensign" (a naval ensign is a vlootvaandel), but in the poetic context, "banner" seems more appropriate. Mike Oettle, 14 April 2004 Vaarwel aan die Vierkleur Here are the lyrics of Vaarwel aan die Vierkleur, as they appear in the FAK-Sangbundel (Fourth Edition 1979, sixth printing of 2002) published by Protea Boekhuis for the Federasie van Afrikaanse Kultuurvereniginge (FAK). I don't know if I've managed to turn out an acceptable rendition in English. The original is rather tearful I'm afraid. The word 'Vierkleur' I kept, 'Fourhue' rather sounds like a steed ridden by a LOTR character. To pronounce 'Vierkleur', say "veerckler" with -er as in 'her'. One strong image gets lost in translation, the word 'vlag' is feminine you see. Here goes: No longer may the Vierkleur wave, in tears we gave it up, it has been buried with our braves sunk into an honourable grave it has been buried with our braves sunk into an honourable grave. Happier those who fell when still the Flag was borne, than us who had to see and mourn it dragged into the dust than us who had to see and mourn it dragged into the dust. No happy morning for it there, we part from it forever now resting in the Nation's heart and dedicated to the Past now resting in the Nation's heart and dedicated to the Past. Blessed to those who bore it boldly to brave the prideful foe whose feeble arms to it did cling as they went to their death whose feeble arms to it did cling as they went to their death. Let Future Ages never forget them as long as men endure till even Heaven is outworn and Earth reels before its fall, till even Heaven is outworn and Earth reels before its fall. Jan Mertens, 30 Apr 2004 Die Vlaglied / The Song of the Flag Another flag song, this time abut the former South African flag called "Die Vlaglied" / "The Song of the Flag" which was composed by CJ Langenhoven, the composer of the former South African National Anthem "Die Stem van Suid-Afrika" / "The Call of South Africa". This song was sung by a Children's Choir at the dedication ceremony marking the establishment of the Republic of South Africa held at the Cape Show Grounds in Cape Town on 31 May 1961. The English and Afrikaans versions are as follows: "The Song of the Flag" Cradled in beauty forever shall fly In the gold of her sunshine the blue of her sky, South Africa's pledge of her freedom and pride In their home by sacrifice glorified. By righteousness armed, we'll defend in our might The sign and the seal of our freedom and right, The emblem and loyalty, service and love; To our own selves true and to God above, Our faith shall keep what our hearts enthrone - The flag of the land that is all our own. "Die Vlaglied" Nooit hoef jou kinders wat trou is te vra: "Wat beteken jou vlag dan, Suid-Afrika?" On sweet hy's die seel van ons vryheid en reg Vir naaste en vreemde, vir oorman en kneg; Die pand van ons erf'nis, geslag op geslag, Om te hou vir ons kinders se kinder swat wag; Ons nasie se grondbrief van eiendomsland, Uitgegee op gesag van die Hoogste se hand. Oor ons hoof sal ons hys, in ons hart sal ons dra, Die vlag van ons eie Suid-Afrika. Bruce Berry, 31 Aug 2007 The Fallen Flag While this is not a song about a flag (it has no tune that I am aware of), it is very much a poem about the vierkleur of the Zuid-Afrikaansche Republiek , and to my mind belongs with the South African flag songs which have already been posted to FOTW. This poem was published in England in 1902 as part of a collection entitled "Songs of the Veld". The book was banned in South Africa by the British military authorities at that time. A new edition of "Songs of the Veld" has just been published in Cape Town, with the addition of commentary and historical notes in both Afrikaans and English. The ISBN is 978-0-620-39432-1. THE FALLEN FLAG Inscribed to Albert Cartwright � The African Bonivard. Furl the fourfold banner, Lay that flag to rest; In the roll of honour � The brightest, bravest, best. Now no hand may wave it, O'er valley, pass or hill; Where thousands died to save it � The patriot hearts are still. It flew o'er proud Majuba, Where the victor farmers stood: O'er the tide of the Tugela � Dark-dyed with hostile blood. On Stormberg passes glorious � And o'er Ma'rsfontein* height, � Wher Cronje's host victorious Withstood the British might. But a prouder grander story Is the record of the band, Which surpassed all former glory, In the latest greatest stand. When ten to one outnumbered � Of hope and help bereft, On ground with graves encumbered, Defenders still were left. There were hero hearts to lead them, On the path where death was won; To float the flag of Freedom Where the eagle sees the sun. To keep the Vierkleur flying On every fortress hill; From the cold clasp of the dying There were hands to sieze it still. O Land, so fondly cherished � Endeared by patriot graves, � The soil where such have perished Is not the soil for slaves. From age to age your story Shall sound to other days: You leave your sons the glory That fallen flag to raise. O sacred smitten Nation, Crowned on thy Calvary, There's a day of restoration � An Easter Morn for Thee. Vierkleur, young hands shall grab thee � New armies round thee stand; Men whose fathers died shall clasp thee On the blood-bought Burghers' Land. * Magersfontein should thus be pronounced. [This footnote, explaining the spelling Ma'rsfontein, appears under the second stanza.] Mike Oettle, 18 Dec 2008 Nkosi Sikelele Afrika Song Nkosi Sikelel\'i Afrika (Herr Gott segne Afrika) Maluphakanyisw\'uphondo Iwayo (Lass seinen Ruf erhoben sein) Yizwa imithandazo ythu (Höre und vernehme unsere Gebete) Nkosi sikelela, Nkosi sikelela (Oh Herr Gott segne Afrika) Nkosi Sikelel\'i Afrika (Herr Gott segne Afrika) Maluphakanyisw\'uphondo Iwayo (Lass seinen Ruf erhoben sein) Yizwa imithandazo ythu (Höre und vernehme unsere Gebete) Nkosi sikelela, Thina lusapho Iwayo (Oh Gott segne uns, uns Kinder Afrikas) Woza moya (Komm Geist) Woza moya woza (Komm Geist komm) Woza moya (Komm Geist) Woza moya woza (Komm Geist komm) Nkosi sikelela (Oh Herr Gott segne) Morena boloka setjhaba sa heso (Gott segne unsere Nation) Ofedise dintwa le matshwenyeho (und stop alle Kriege und Leiden) Oh se boloke (Und segne es) O se boloke morena (Und segne es Herr, Oh Gott) Setjhaba sa heso (Segne unsere Nation) Setjhaba sa Afrika (Unsere Nation, Afrika) Nkosi Sikelel\'i Afrika (Herr Gott segne Afrika) Maluphakanyisw\'uphondo Iwayo (Lass seinen Ruf erhoben sein) Yizwa imithandazo ythu (Höre und vernheme unsere Gebete) Nkosi sikelela (Oh Gott segne uns, uns Kinder Afrikas) Nkosi sikelel\'i Afrika (Gott segne Afrika) "Die Stem van Suid-Afrika Uit die blou van onse hemel, Uit die diepte van ons see, Oor ons ewige gebergtes Waar die kranse antwoord gee. Deur ons vêr-verlate vlaktes Met die kreun van ossewa – Ruis die stem van ons geliefde, Van ons land Suid-Afrika. Ons sal antwoord op jou roepstem, Ons sal offer wat jy vra: Ons sal lewe, ons sal sterwe – Ons vir jou, Suid-Afrika. In die murg van ons gebeente, In ons hart en siel en gees, In ons roem op ons verlede, In ons hoop op wat sal wees. In ons wil en werk en wandel, Van ons wieg tot aan ons graf – Deel geen ander land ons liefde, Trek geen ander trou ons af. Vaderland! Ons sal die adel, Van jou naam met ere dra: Waar en trou as Afrikaners – Kinders van Suid-Afrika. n die songloed van ons somer, In ons winternag se kou, In die lente van ons liefde, In die lanfer van ons rou. By die klink van huw'liks-klokkies, By die kluit-klap op die kis – Streel jou stem ons nooit verniet nie, Weet jy waar jou kinders is. Op jou roep sê ons nooit nee nie, Sê ons altyd, altyd ja: Om te lewe, om te sterwe – Ja, ons kom, Suid-Afrika. Op U Almag vas vertrouend Het ons vadere gebou: Skenk ook ons die krag, o Here! Om te handhaaf en te hou – Dat die erwe van ons vad're Vir ons kinders erwe bly: Knegte van die Allerhoogste, Teen die hele wêreld vry. Soos ons vadere vertrou het, Leer ook ons vertrou, o Heer – Met ons land en met ons nasie Sal dit wel wees, God regeer. See also Music portal South Africa portal List of historical national anthems National anthem of South Africa National anthem of the Orange Free State National anthem of the Transvaal Flag of South Africa (1928–1994)

SOUTH AFRICAN ART & CULTURE South African art has always taken on the unique flavour of the country, from the 4 000-year-old cave paintings of the San Bushmen – the richest collection of rock art in Africa – to the homegrown conceptual art movement that sprang up as apartheid came to an end in the 1990s. The San Bushmen, Africa’s oldest hunter-gatherers, lived in the massive Drakensberg range of mountains from 4 000 years ago until they were driven out by colonialists in the 19th century. Over that time, they created a vast body of art on the walls of caves and rock shelters – the largest and most concentrated group of rock paintings in sub-Saharan Africa. This rich collection prompted Unesco to inscribe the Drakensberg as a mixed natural and cultural world heritage site in 2000. The paintings, Unesco said, “represent the spiritual life of the San people” and are “outstanding both in quality and diversity of subject”. “The San people lived in the mountainous Drakensberg area for more than four millennia, leaving behind them a corpus of outstanding rock art, which throws much light on their way of life and their beliefs,” Unesco said. “The authenticity of the paintings, and their shelter and cave settings, as a reflection of the beliefs of the San peoples, are without question.” Colonial art ‘Elephants Charging over Quartos Country During the early colonial era, white South African artists tended to concentrate on depicting what they saw as a “new world”, in accurate detail. Artists such as Thomas Baines travelled the country recording its flora, fauna, people and landscapes – a form of reporting for those back in the metropolis. Towards the end of the 19th century, painters Jan Volschenk and Pieter Hugo Naude and the sculptor Anton van Wouw began to establish a locally rooted art. Their work – the first glimpse of an artistic vision that engaged with life as lived in South Africa – marked the moment the country began to acquire its own national identity, with the 1910 Union of South Africa marking the formal end of the colonial era. The 20th century and apartheid ‘An extensive view of farmlands In the first decades of the 20th century, the Dutch-born painter JH Pierneef brought a coolly geometric sensibility to the South African landscape; he also, in a way that fed into Afrikaner nationalist ideology, found it bereft of human inhabitants. By the 1930s, two women artists, Maggie Laubscher and Irma Stern, brought the techniques and sensibilities of post-impressionism and expressionism to South African art. Their bold colour and composition, and highly personal point of view, rather scandalised those with old-fashioned concepts of acceptable art. Yet younger artists such as Gregoire Boonzaier, Maud Sumner and Moses Kottler were rejoicing in this new spirit of cosmopolitanism. Irma Stern Museum: www.irmastern.co.za The apartheid years (1948-1994) witnessed a great diversity in South African art – ranging from landscape painting to abstract art. There was engagement with European and American currents, but also a fiercely local sense of what it meant to be an artist in this country during troubled times. Inevitably, black artists were largely neglected. It was left to white artists, endowed with training, resources and supportive galleries, to build a corpus of South African art. After World War II, returning soldiers and some immigrants brought European ideas to the local art world. In the 1940s, Jean Welz, for instance, born in Austria in 1900, brought a detailed, nuanced and sophisticated style to still lifes, portraits, nudes and landscape paintings. Maurice van Essche, born in Belgium in 1906, applied the modernist techniques of his teacher Matisse to specifically African subject matter. Impact of African forms Meanwhile, African forms themselves began to have an impact on the work of white artists. An awareness of art forms ranging from those of the ancient Egyptians to San Bushman rock art increasingly influenced South African artists from the 1950s onwards. Walter Battiss, for one, had developed an interest in rock art long before he became an artist in the 1930s. Until his death in 1982, Battiss returned repeatedly to the motifs and styles of San rock art. In Symbols of Life (1967), for instance, San-type figures and patterns become stylised into a kind of symbolic alphabet. Walter Battiss: walterbattiss.co.za Other artists found different ways of interacting with the visual stimuli of Africa, whether by adapting its outward forms or finding ways to incorporate its textures into the work. Alexis Preller, for instance, created fantastically detailed canvases influenced by the European surrealists of the 1920s and 1930s. Beginning in the late 1940s, Preller painted African scenes and themes such as The Kraal and Hieratic Women, but these were not realistic portraits of African life: instead, they were reinvented by Preller’s startling visual imagination. Cecil Skotnes, by contrast, took a leaf from Picasso’s book – the European art revolution instigated by the great Spaniard had, in part, been generated by his appreciation of African masks. Skotnes became South Africa’s master of the woodcut, bringing European modernism into fruitful collision with African styles. Meanwhile, a host of white artists were engaging with the South African landscape in interesting ways – though such formalism was increasingly criticised during the struggle against apartheid for its detachment from the political situation. Emerging black artists By contrast, black artists such as Gerard Sekoto and George Pemba concentrated on depicting their realities and environments in a direct, though forcefully expressionist, manner. From the 1930s onward, Sekoto portrayed urban African life in places such as Sophiatown and District Six, vital and tumultuous hotspots of an emerging though unacknowledged black culture. In Sekoto’s works of the early 1940s, such as Street Scene, bustling African figures are placed in the context of their often denuded environment, while Yellow Houses (the first work by a black artist bought by the Johannesburg Art Gallery), reduces the human presence, focusing instead on the environment itself. In Song of the Pick, naturalism gives way to severe stylisation: a rank of workers wield picks in unison, forming a powerful image of African labour; a white overseer’s figure is dwarfed, even threatened, by this phalanx of diggers. In 1947, Sekoto left for Paris. Illness and intermittent impoverishment meant that his work never again reached the heights it had in South Africa. George Pemba, by contrast, stayed in the township of Motherwell near Port Elizabeth, living into his 90s and patiently continuing to paint despite the lack of public acclaim. His often naively styled work focused on the simple lives of poor black people, humbly and sometimes humorously evincing their fundamental humanity, though he also treated themes such as the story of the Xhosa prophetess Nongqawuse of the 19th century. Increasingly, and inevitably, black artists began to give voice to a political sensibility that left behind the realist depiction of township life. Lack of resources meant that many had to rely on media other than oil-painting, but making a virtue of necessity gave added force to their work. Dumile Feni (known as Dumile), for instance, became a master of drawing, often in ballpoint pen. Dumile’s sense of anger and despair fed into work of extraordinary power; his distorted figures seemed to have been physically deformed by the very forces of society. Called “the Goya of the townships”, he painted his own version of Picasso’s Guernica, a cry of pain at human suffering. Dumile went into exile in 1968 and died in New York in 1991. Black artists such as Azaria Mbatha and John Muafangejo also made striking use of the accessible and relatively cheap medium of the linocut. In the 1980s and 1990s, artists such as William Zulu, Vuyile Cameron Voyifwa, Cyprian Shilakoe and others extended linocut work into what has become practically a subgenre of its own. Gerard Sekoto Foundation: www.gerardsekotofoundation.com George Pemba: www.georgepemba.co.za District Six Museum: www.districtsix.co.za Dumile Feni: www.dumile.org.za The outsiders’ view Meanwhile, the idiosyncratic Jackson Hlungwane, discovered by the mainstream community only late in his life, produced a vast body of sculpture in wood and built environments expressing his own highly individual religious world. It contains a multitude of creatures both mythical and real, as well as a large cast of characters. In this he has something in common with another “outsider artist”, Helen Martins, who obsessively peopled her small-town home – known as the Owl House – with sculptures of concrete and found objects, up to her suicide in 1976. Yet South Africa’s most successful “outsider” artist is perhaps the Russian emigre Vladimir Tretchikoff, who developed a distinctive style in which arch sentimentality was rendered with virtuoso formal exactitude. Tretchikoff had considerable commercial acumen, turning paintings such as The Dying Swan and Chinese Girl (also known informally as The Blue Lady) into prints and selling millions around the world. To the post-modern eye, Tretchikoff’s work, long scoffed at as the peak of kitsch, now has a distinctive ironic charm. From the 1960s on, many South African artists responded to developments in American and British art. The severe yet sensual work of Cecily Sash showed the impact of post-painterly abstraction and later “op art”; the playful surfaces of Helmut Starke and Kevin Atkinson opened the dialogue with pop art. A wide range of styles and modes were now available to South African artists, and the likes of Judith Mason and Andrew Verster extended the traditions of oil painting into personal expressions of life, society and the world around them. Apartheid in crisis: 1970s and 1980s As the apartheid state became more repressive in the 1970s and 1980s, many artists faced the harsh realities of South African life, sometimes obliquely, sometimes head-on. In the early 1980s, for instance, Paul Stopforth made a series of works dealing with police torture – the cause of the death of resistance heroes such as Bantu Steve Biko. And Robert Hodgins satirised figures of power in paintings that turned leaders into sinister but laughable echoes of Alfred Jarry’s mad king Ubu. In paintings, lithographs and sculpture, Norman Catherine developed the playful sensibilities of Walter Battiss into a disturbing private menagerie of threatening and threatened theriomorphs and larger-than-life human figures. The crowded collages, pastels and charcoals of Helen Sebidi spoke of the struggle of human life; her figures seem to battle upwards, towards the picture plane, as though they were drowning. William Kentridge used expressionist drawings and highly developed personal metaphors, symbols and characters to expose the hypocrisies and ironies of white South African life. More recently, he has employed his powerful drawing technique in “animated” films and installations, and the set design of Mozart’s The Magic Flute. Penny Siopis tackled femininity and history in dense, allusive paintings, and in installations, photographs and other conceptual works. In the 1980s, “resistance art” was increasingly recognised as a genre of expression directed at the white elite’s oppressive exercise of power. For example, trade union posters and T-shirts used imagery that had something in common with the Russian constructivists as well as African art. And anonymous artists placed images of state violence (or bewildering dream reflections) at traffic intersections. Judith Mason: www.judithmason.com Steve Biko Foundation: www.sbf.org.za Norman Catharine: www.normancatherine.co.za William Kentridge – Art21 Feature: www.pbs.org/art21/artists/william-kentridge Conceptual art of the 1990s Conceptual art in South Africa seemed to come into its own in the 1990s. Events such as the two Johannesburg Biennales (1995 and 1997) contributed to a new dialogue between local artists and currents from other countries. Media such as video, performance and installation took the place of painting. Jeremy Wafer, for instance, used photography, earth, and fibreglass sculpture to tackle issues such as borders and boundaries. The complex installations of Sue Williamson used found and reworked materials to speak of memory and history. Sandile Zulu made paintings out of the unpredictable marks of fire on surfaces, or created sculptural tableaux from natural materials. Even refuse was turned into suggestive assemblages and collages by Moshekwa Langa. Steven Cohen made drag into a form of sculpture-performance that addressed identity and marginality, while Kendell Geers interrogated the very process of artmaking itself. Other artists put a conceptual spin on traditional artforms: Jane Alexander, for example, took sculpture into new realms with disturbing figures that place the human form in extremis or subject it to frightening transformations, while Jo Ractliffe worked with photography to investigate personal and familial memory, death, decay and love. Hentie van der Merwe also used photographs, taken or found, to talk about the body in an age of HIV/Aids. Kendell Geers: kendellgeers.com Crafts: the reinvention of tradition traditional Ndebele beadwork. While the “high art” continues to blossom in South Africa, the market for crafts has expanded to include every possible form of traditional artwork. There is a host of work in traditional media on the market. Artists are constantly developing the repertoire of African crafts – from intricate and near life-size beaded wire sculpture to tableware, ornaments and embroidered cloth, to stunning costume jewellery, welded cast-iron objects, folk painting and more. At the same time, the status of the traditionally anonymous maker of craft works is changing: “folk art” has made inroads into “high art”. For example, in the 1990s the work of late ceramicist Bonnie Ntshalintshali went well beyond the confines of traditional African pottery, yet her exquisite creations could conceivably still be used at the dinner table. The Ndebele tradition of house-painting exploded with the advent of commercial paints, giving rise to artists such as Esther Mahlangu, whose adaptations of the highly coloured geometric designs adorned everything from cars to aeroplanes. Notwithstanding the appearance of celebrity “folk artists”, ordinary craft continues to thrive – the main examples being beadwork, pottery, basketry and wooden carving. South African Art The art of the peoples of South Africa is the oldest known art in the world, dating back over 100,000 years. The archeological discoveries there help scholars to date the evolution of cognition and intelligent progression. South African art in the modern era is influenced and molded by the trials of the South African people under apartheid and the years of European involvement in the area expressed in the found art of Africans making sense of modern traditions, and the Dutch influence on both white and black artists. With the many tribes, languages, cultures, and races of South Africa, there is a very diverse and eclectic art scene in historical and contemporary South Africa. South African Art Origins and Historical Importance: Blombos cave South African Art The very beginnings of art, not just for South Africa, but for the world, were found at the Blombos cave. This ancient art studio contained paint pots in the form of shells that were used to store mixed paints from disparate sources. This proved to archeologists that early man may have been more sophisticated than previously thought. Whatever it was that they painted, be it clothing, faces, or the walls of the caves, the South African climate, particular in this sea cave is not conducive to the permanent survival of art. What has been found of ancient South African art are the cave paintings of the Khoisan, San, and Bushman tribes dating to 10,000 BC. Other cave painters left behind scenes of hunting and domestic life, and also of spiritual and magical art. The colors used are derived from nature and are therefore mostly in earth tones such as black, yellow, red, orange, white, and gray. “The drawings don’t start with ‘a beautiful mark’. It has to be a mark of something out there in the world. It doesn’t have to be an accurate drawing, but it has to stand for an observation, not something that is abstract, like an emotion”. – William Kentridge Cave scenes portray battles and hunts, animals, dancing, and later, white hunters on horseback. The figures are shown in long forms in action and some figures that are either dancing or participating in the shamanic rituals are costumed in clothing in unusual patterns and prints and are often wearing masks. It is unknown if these are people drawn from life, or if these represent symbolic characters. The symbols, themes, and subjects of the South African cave paintings are similar to what is seen in cave and rock paintings all over the world. European Influence: The Boers, better known as the Dutch, and the English came to South Africa in the mid-19th century and the art of the Europeans that remained and the traditional art of the indigenous tribal people began to mix. The end of the 19th century spurred some artists to move away from this mixed art and begin studying art in realism , creating a unique art free from both European and native influences. Indigenous people South African Art Under European colonization, the native people suffered under racial segregation and prejudice. The English established museums, universities, art schools, and other education opportunities, but they were not ones open to the indigenous. However, white intellectuals and artists seeking inspiration from the art and culture of the African people sought them out and some artistic instruction was imparted by collaboration. As the tide of the world was changing to strive for respect of all peoples, the artists of South Africa, both white and black began to protest against apartheid, and against the cultural boycott on South Africa. Their success led to South African artists stepping up to a level global playing field. “I don’t know how one actually would define obscenity. I’m sure the definition is different according to the age one is living in”. – Jane Alexander South African Art Key Highlights: South Africa is home to the Thupelo Workshop, an annual workshop that brings artists from all over the world to share the diversity of artistic style, technique, and motivation with the global community of artists. The San culture are hunter-gatherers that are still in existence, but as their culture fades and there are fewer San artists, galleries are stepping in to help keep their art and culture alive. The lack of galleries on the Cape has given artists in that area freedom of expression without the restriction of pleasing the intellectual middle classes. The Ndebele tribe is known for its graphics geometric paintings on houses. The paints used were traditionally made from natural sources, but the Ndebele are now sometimes being supplied with commercial paints. Because of the rampant poverty in South Africa, poor artists use found media to create art. The talent and vision of the South African people is evident in the beauty they are able to create from these materials. For instance, baskets spiraling in vivid bright colors look to be made from highly died natural materials but are, in fact, made from telephone wires. South African Art Top Works: San Bushmen Rock Paintings – Drakensberg Mountains Elephants Charging over Quartos Country – Thomas Baines An Extensive View of Farmlands – JH Pierneef Pretoria Mural – Walter Battiss Song of the Pick – Gerard Sekoto The Rice Lady – Vladimir Tretchikoff The Conservationists Ball – William Kentridge The Butcher Boys – Jane Alexander Ndebele Beadwork Zulu Baskets BACK TO THE TOP OF THE PAGE

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