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A form of African oral poetry, the izibongo is an ancient praise poem, traditionally used to praise chiefs. This recording of a contemporary African imbongi (poet) praises South African leader Nelson Mandela. During the struggle against apartheid in South Africa this ancient tradition was revived and used for protest poetry at large public gatherings. Translation: It’s a dream of the dead./ It’s a dream that people thought would never come true./ People have cried till they gave up./ How many souls are under the ground?/ How many corpses because of Mandela?/ Mandela Mandela / Mandela Mandela.
Poem performed by Bongani Sithole. Recording and translation courtesy of Dr. R. H. Kaschula. All rights reserved.
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