Originally composed as a marching song , it was used to mock Black African soldiers who collaborated with colonial authorities, or to boost morale during training. The band often performed in exaggerated military uniforms with padded stomachs and buttocks to satirize high-ranking officers. Meaning of the Lyrics
(or Zamina mina): Roughly translates to "Come" or "Who called you?". Zamina Waka Waka, time for Africa Original Version
: In Cameroonian pidgin, this is often interpreted as "Do it" or a shortened version of "Walk while working". Originally composed as a marching song , it
Watch the original 1986 performance by Golden Sounds and explore the history of how it became a global phenomenon: Zamina Waka Waka, time for Africa Original Version YouTube · The African Music Charts Original Zangalewa Waka waka YouTube · ChabaP237 The Truth Behind The Waka Waka Song. YouTube · Joossa : In Cameroonian pidgin, this is often interpreted
: Often translated as "Where do you come from?" or "Who has called you?". Connection to Shakira's "Waka Waka"
Initially, the song was marred by controversy as Golden Sounds was not credited. Following public outcry and legal discussions, a settlement was reached, and the original members were credited as co-writers.
In 2010, Shakira sampled the chorus and melody for the official World Cup song.