He is married to actress Leleti Khumalo. Leleti who received a 1988 Tony Award nomination for Best Actress in a Musical for Sarafina; as well as starring as the leading role in South Africa's first Oscar-nominated film/move, Yesterday.
In some sectors of South African society, Ngema is considered a racist because of his controversial song, AmaNdiya (about racism that Blacks in KwaZulu-Natal have suffered at the hands of Indians). It was banned in the country soon after it was released in 2002, and even Nelson Mandela had asked Ngema to apologize but Ngema refused.
Rolihlahla Mandela
Mbongeni Ngema Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Freedom is in our hands
Show us the way to freedom
In the Land of Africa!
Mandela Mandela Mandela
Mandela says freedom now
Show us the way to freedom
The song "Rolihlahla Mandela" by Mbongeni Ngema is a tribute to the late Nelson Mandela, who was known as Rolihlahla before he became a public figure. The lyrics call for freedom and ask Mandela to show the people of Africa the way to it. The repetition of Mandela's name in the chorus emphasizes his importance and status as a leader and symbol of hope for the people of Africa.
The first stanza, "Rolihlahla Mandela, Freedom is in our hands," sets a tone of urgency and hope for change. The word "Rolihlahla" means "troublemaker" in Xhosa, Mandela's native language. It is a fitting nickname for a man who dedicated his life to fighting against apartheid in South Africa. The second line, "Freedom is in our hands," is a reminder to people that they have the power to bring about change in their own lives and communities.
In the following stanzas, the song continues to call for Mandela to lead the way towards freedom. The repetition of the words "Mandela says freedom now" and "Show us the way to freedom" reinforce the message that Mandela was a powerful and respected leader who could guide the people of Africa towards a better future.
Line by Line Meaning
Rolihlahla mandela
The name given to Nelson Mandela at a young age, meaning 'troublemaker', symbolizes his early activism and rebellious spirit.
Freedom is in our hands
The power to achieve freedom lies with the people, and it is their responsibility to fight for it.
Show us the way to freedom
As a prominent leader and advocate for change, Mandela is looked up to and expected to guide the people towards achieving freedom.
In the Land of Africa!
The call for freedom extends beyond just South Africa, but to the entire continent of Africa which has been subjected to colonialism and oppression.
Mandela Mandela Mandela
Repeating his name emphasizes his importance as a figurehead for the liberation movement.
Mandela says freedom now
Mandela himself actively called for immediate freedom and did not accept any terms of prolonged oppression or injustice.
Show us the way to freedom
Once again making a plea for guidance and leadership from Mandela to steer the people towards liberation.
In the land of Africa!
Reiterating the notion that the fight for freedom extends towards the liberation of the entire continent, not just South Africa.
Contributed by Alaina T. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
@thomaspacgwele7902
Nkosi sikelela South Africa 🙏 what a song rest easy Mbongeni
@oderaricky3503
south africans are the most talented song writers
@thabangmpholoane3828
😢 hamba kahle mfho waka Ngema😭 legends don't die they rest..
@pinkytsautse5990
He left an indelible mark in the history of democracy vs Apartheid, he was a genuis lyrically and when you listen to this song, he managed to show the world how versatile he was, may his soul rest in peace 💔💔💔
@nobantumabuza-frantzis1693
So true. But can we please recococgnize my father's contribution to the movement. Most of us grew up to these "freedom" songs.
@lebohangpeter8929
🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 what the song,his music is ruled the world 🌍
@ditabamoeketsi1448
WOW. What a classic
@philemonkaroney9536
His songs will remain forever Rip legend
@OfficialPaps.
0:56 that scream🥺😩
@OfficialPaps.
This still slaps🔥