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Pretoria, South Africa (07 July 2024) – <\/em>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.<\/p>\n The atmosphere in the stadium reached an unforgettable crescendo as the national anthem was performed, leaving not a dry eye in sight.<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n 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<\/a>, the South African Beekeeping team<\/a>, champion artist Dr Esther Mahlangu<\/a>, a representative from Bafana Bafana<\/a>, and Dricus du Plessis<\/a>, our first South African middleweight champion. As they took to the field, a massive banner unfurled, proclaiming, \u201cHulle Weet Nie Wat Ons Weet Nie\u201d (“They Don’t Know What We Know”).<\/p>\n The announcer then declared, “The anthem today will be sung by YOU and KB Motsilanyane, and signed today by Lisa Nkandla.”<\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n What followed was the stuff of legends. KB\u2019s 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:<\/p>\n “Sounds the call to come together,<\/span> 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.<\/p>\n
\nAnd united we shall stand,<\/span>
\nLet us live and strive for freedom,<\/span>
\nIn South Africa our land.”<\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n