“Debout Congolais,” meaning “Arise, Congolese,” is the Congo national anthem of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). This powerful national anthem, resonates deeply with the Congolese people, symbolizing
- Unity
- Resilience
- National pride.
In this article, we will explore the translation of “Debout Congolais in Lingala,” its cultural importance, and how it connects the Congolese people to their heritage.
The Significance of Congo national anthem
“Debout Congolais” was adopted as the Congo national anthem in 1960, shortly after the country gained independence from Belgium. The lyrics, written by historian Joseph Lutumba, and the music composed by Simon-Pierre Boka, reflect the aspirations of a nation striving for unity and progress. The anthem was relinquished in 1971 when the country was renamed Zaire but was readopted in 1997 when the country changed its name to Democratic Republic i=of the Congo.
2 Cultural Context and Unity
The Congo national anthem’s lyrics emphasize themes of solidarity and resilience, urging the Congolese people to stand together in the face of adversity. Singing the national anthem in Lingala” allows speakers to connect with the anthem on a personal level, fostering a sense of belonging and pride in their cultural identity.
3 The Importance of Knowing the Anthem in Your Own Language
Understanding and singing the Congo national anthem in one’s own language is crucial for fostering a deeper connection to the nation. When Congolese citizens sing in Lingala, they engage with its message more profoundly, allowing them to appreciate its emotional weight and significance. This practice not only enhances feelings of patriotism but also promotes linguistic diversity and cultural heritage.
It is good to see that nowadays, that “Debout Congolais” has been translated into several local languages in Democratic Republic of the Congo as Kikongo, Swahili, Tshiluba and so on.
4. “Debout Congolais” lyrics in Lingala
Here are some key verses from “Debout Congolais” translated into Lingala.
| Lingala | English | French |
| Loyembo ya lokumu: Telema Moi ya Kongo | National Anthem: “Arise, Congolese” | Hymne national : “Debout Congolais” |
| Telema mwana kongo, | Arise, Congolese, | Debout Congolais, |
| Tosangani na lisengelo | United by fate, | Unis par le sort, |
| Tosangani na bokasi po na bonsomi, | United in the struggle for independence. | Unis dans l’effort pour l’indépendance. |
| Totombola mito, Egumbama kala, | Let us raise our heads, long bowed, | Dressons nos fronts, longtemps courbés |
| Mpo na libela tokomata Elúlú malamu, Na kimia, | And for good, take the greatest leap forward, in peace. | Et pour de bon prenons le plus bel élan, dans la paix. |
| O Bai mbóka mbóka ya molende | Oh passionate people, | Ô peuple ardent |
| Na mosala, | Through hard work, | Par le labeur |
| Tokotonga mboka kitoko, koleka oyo ya liboso | We will build a country more beautiful than before, in peace. | Nous bâtirons un pays plus beau qu’avant dans la paix. |
| Bayángelami | Citizens, | Citoyens, |
| Yemba loyembo, loyembo ya lokumu na biso bosálisani, Na lolendo, | Sing the sacred anthem of your solidarity proudly, | Entonnez l’hymne sacré de votre solidarité fièrement, |
| Sakola elembo ya mpauni ya bonsomi | Salute the golden emblem of your sovereignty. | Saluez l’emblème d’or de votre souveraineté |
| Likabi epambilama , Kongo | Blessed gift, Congo! | Don béni, Congo ! |
| Ya bakoko, Kongo, | From the ancestors, Congo! | Des aïeux, Congo ! |
| O Mboka, Kongo, | Oh country, Congo! | Ô pays, Congo ! |
| Ya bolingo, Kongo, | Beloved Congo! | Bien-aimé, Congo ! |
| Tokotondisa mabela na yo, mpe tokobatela monene na yo | We will populate your land and ensure its greatness. | Nous peuplerons ton sol et nous assurerons ta grandeur. |
| Mokolo mua tuku misato, na sanza ya motoba, o moi ya motaú, | June 30, oh smooth sun, | Trente juin, ô doux soleil |
| Mokolo mua tuku misato, na sanza ya motoba, Mokolo mua tuku misato, na sanza ya motoba, | June 30, oh June 30, | Trente juin, du trente juin |
| Mokolo epambolama, zala motatoli | Sacred day, be the witness, | Jour sacré, soit le témoin, |
| Mokolo epambolama, ya ndayi ya Bonsomi oyo ya sékó, | Sacred day of the immortal Oath of freedom, | Jour sacré, de l’immortel Serment de liberté |
| Tokotikela | That we pass on, | Que nous léguons |
| Ebóta na biso po na libela. | To our posterity forever. | À notre postérité pour toujours. |
Warning: This is not an official translation of DRC national anthem in lingala.
5. Listen to the Anthem in Lingala
Check out the video of the lingala version “ Telema mwana Kongo” by Lopango ya banka and experience the anthem’s powerful message and join in the celebration of Congolese pride!
Conclusion
“Debout Congolais in Lingala” is more than just an anthem; it is a heartfelt expression of national identity and unity. By knowing and singing the anthem in Lingala, Congolese citizens can connect with their heritage and foster a sense of belonging. We encourage you to share your thoughts in the comments below and subscribe to our newsletter for more insights into Congolese culture and heritage! Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more articles on Congolese culture and heritage!
This article has been inspired by a similar exploration of the Tshiluba version of the anthem, you can find here:
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