A powerful performance of the South African national anthem by Keabetswe (KB) Motsilanyane, joined by the entire stadium, left no dry eyes showcasing the unifying spirit of the nation.
Pretoria, South Africa (07 July 2024) – Sport has an incredible power to unite South Africa, and this was beautifully demonstrated during last night’s historic rugby match between South Africa and Ireland.
The atmosphere in the stadium reached an unforgettable crescendo as the national anthem was performed, leaving not a dry eye in sight.
The South African national anthem holds a special place in the hearts of many. For over 30 years, it has been a symbol of resilience and unity, carrying the nation through various challenges. Known worldwide for its diversity, beauty and stirring melody, the anthem is a source of immense pride.
Actress and singer Keabetswe (KB) Motsilanyane had the honour of opening the match by singing the national anthem. However, the atmosphere in the stadium was already charged with national pride, not only because the Springboks were about to play but also because Loftus had arranged a special moment to celebrate our other South African champions. The stadium was graced by award-winning Sheep Shearers, the South African Beekeeping team, champion artist Dr Esther Mahlangu, a representative from Bafana Bafana, and Dricus du Plessis, our first South African middleweight champion. As they took to the field, a massive banner unfurled, proclaiming, “Hulle Weet Nie Wat Ons Weet Nie” (“They Don’t Know What We Know”).
The announcer then declared, “The anthem today will be sung by YOU and KB Motsilanyane, and signed today by Lisa Nkandla.”
What followed was the stuff of legends. KB’s performance was moving, her passion and pride resonating through every note. But it was in the last stanza that the moment became truly magical. KB opened her arms, sharing her microphone with the stadium and the world, inviting everyone to join in. The crowd responded wholeheartedly, singing with all their might:
“Sounds the call to come together,
And united we shall stand,
Let us live and strive for freedom,
In South Africa our land.”
This powerful, unified rendition left everyone in tears and may very well set a new standard for how the national anthem is sung at future sporting events. You can watch the emotional performance below.
The Springboks then capped off the evening with a pulsating and drama-filled Test match, winning 27-20 against Ireland and going one-nil up in the Castle Lager Incoming Series. All 50,066 spectators in attendance will talk about this incredible game for years to come.
In moments like these, the spirit of South Africa shines brightly. The unity, pride, and love for our country was palpable, reminding us all of the incredible strength we possess when we come together, as I said in a tweet as the match ended last night,
Did you hear what they were telling us while they were playing? Did you see what they were saying with no words but all their actions?
“Hulle weet nie wat ons weet nie.”
When we are STRONGER TOGETHER, we win.
Tell everyone.
by 