I am Africa!
Rising bright and free,
From the shackles of slavery and exploitation.
I am Africa!
The voice of a thousand children,
Strong, defiant, steeped in hope and courage.
I am Africa!
The chant of a million mysteries,
From Ogun to Ifa, Amadioha and Ojukwu.
I am Africa!
The march of a thousand warriors; bullish, restive and untamed,
Mzelik, Shakar, Mandela, Ojukwu, Ganni, Achebe and many more yet undone.
I am Africa!
The destiny of a million souls,
Forged in blood, sweat and tears.
I am Africa,
A mine of many treasures; earth, water, gold and oil.
Pilfered, plagued and plundered, yet inexhaustible!
I am Africa!
Of women bright, gallant and iridescent.
Dark, daring and desirable – the pride of womanity!
I am Africa!
Child of a million tales of woe,
Abused, ravaged and defiled - yet unbroken!
I am Africa!
The dawn of black dominance,
Now rising, rising, fiery, shimmering and unquenchable!
This poem has not been translated into any other language yet.
I would like to translate this poem