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Meaning of 'Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)'

Reviewed by Jessica
am September 08th, 2023
☝️ Key Points
  • The song 'Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)' is full of optimism, strength, and unity, and was the official anthem for the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa.
  • The lyrics contain challenges and setbacks in life and motivate not to let them bring you down and to keep going.
  • 'Tsamina mina zangalewa' and 'Waka Waka' are expressions in Cameroonian dialects and a tribute to African music and culture.
  • 'Do not wait in line, Vamos por Todo' encourages to make the most out of every opportunity and to bring out the best in oneself.
  • Overall, the song is a symbol of strength, perseverance, the beauty of African culture, and a celebration of Africa's diversity and strength.

Interpretation

The song 'Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)' by Shakira is a song full of optimism, strength, and unity. It was chosen as the official anthem for the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa and conveys a message of strength and perseverance.

In the opening verses 'You're a good soldier, choosing your battles,' the song addresses the challenges we encounter in life and the need to carefully choose which battles we want to fight. 'Pick yourself up and dust yourself off get back in the saddle' encourages to bounce back from setbacks and keep going.

The chorus 'Tsamina mina zangalewa, Cause this is Africa' includes words from the Cameroonian dialect Ewondo, 'Zangalewa' means 'Who called you?' and is a tribute to African music and culture.

'Do not wait in line, Vamos por Todo' - here Shakira encourages everyone to make the most of their time, shine, and seize every opportunity. She speaks of the high expectations people have and the need to shine and not hesitate in those moments.

'Waka Waka' is an expression in the Cameroonian Fang dialect meaning 'You are (Do it)'. This expression represents the song's message of persevering and emerging stronger from challenges.

Overall, the song 'Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)' is a symbol of strength, perseverance, and the beauty of African culture. It is an anthem of unity and optimism, and a celebration of Africa's diversity and strength.
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Shakira - Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)
Source: Youtube
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