Matila Balekana Explained

Matila Balekana
Birth Date:1932
Birth Place:Colony of Fiji, British Empire
Occupation:Songwriter
Spouse:Panapasa Balekana
Children:2

Matila Baleilekutu Balekana (born 1932) is a Fijian-born Solomon Islander, who co-wrote the national anthem of the Solomon Islands with her husband, Panapasa Balekana.[1]

Matila Balekana is originally from Fiji,[1] but has spent the majority of her adult life in the Solomon Islands. She and her husband had two children together, a son and a daughter.

The couple co-wrote the national anthem of the Solomon Islands, "God Save Our Solomon Islands", as part of a government competition.[1] Matila and Panapasa co-wrote the lyrics to the anthem, while Balekana Balekana composed the music exclusively.

Matila Balekana's husband, Panapasa Balekana, died on 22 January 2009 at their home in Henderson, east of Honiara.[1]

Notes and References

  1. News: Solomons National Anthem Composer Dies in Honiara . Solomon Times. 2009-01-22 . 2009-08-03.