Arise, Africa arise
Let the world see your beauty
Let them note your strength
And know that though brow beaten
You will stand undefeated

Arise, Africa arise
Let yourself soar like an eagle
Let those who stand in your way
Be shattered like glass
So they know that mighty warrior you are
And you can’t be defiled by those who choose to disrespect you

Arise, Africa arise
Gather your children like an eagle
Let them come from the East, West and North
To build the ruins left by colonisation, neo-colonialism, imperialism, corruption, HIV/Aids, conflict, and dictatorships

Arise, Africa arise
Don’t let them steal your shine
Or shatter your self-image
You are unequalled in strength and unmatched in beauty
Arise, Africa arise

(Written on 1 August 2009)

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