Enoch Mankayi Sontonga

Enoch Mankayi Sontonga was a South African composer and teacher born in 1873, best known for composing the hymn "Nkosi Sikelel' iAfrika" ("Lord Bless Africa"). This influential hymn became a symbol of African identity and liberation, blending Christian themes with a call for unity and freedom. Sontonga’s work played a significant role in South Africa’s cultural and political history, inspiring both religious and nationalist movements. His contributions helped shape African musical heritage, and "Nkosi Sikelel' iAfrika" remains an important national and continental anthem today.