Ai de Nós (feat. Amen Hill, Amélia Charlton e Dalton Simão Clemente)
Azagaia
A Cry for Justice: The Struggles of Cabo Delgado
Azagaia's song 'Ai de Nós' featuring Amen Hill, Amélia Charlton, and Dalton Simão Clemente is a powerful and poignant commentary on the socio-political struggles in Mozambique, particularly focusing on the region of Cabo Delgado. The lyrics are a raw and unfiltered depiction of the exploitation, violence, and neglect faced by the people. Azagaia uses vivid imagery and metaphors to highlight the systemic issues, such as 'Vergonha na cara limpa-se com caras de Samora' (Shame on the face is cleaned with the faces of Samora), referencing the legacy of Samora Machel, Mozambique's first president, and the ongoing corruption and exploitation by those in power.
The repeated line 'Eu nasci em Cabo Delgado' (I was born in Cabo Delgado) serves as a unifying cry, emphasizing that the struggles of Cabo Delgado are the struggles of all Mozambicans. This refrain underscores the interconnectedness of the nation's regions and the shared responsibility to address the injustices. The song also criticizes the international involvement in the region, with lines like 'Rússia e América querem comer do mesmo prato' (Russia and America want to eat from the same plate), pointing to the geopolitical interests that exacerbate local conflicts.
'Ai de nós' (Woe to us) is a lamentation and a call to action. It criticizes the apathy and complacency of both the people and the leaders, urging them to acknowledge and address the suffering. The song's powerful message is a reminder of the importance of solidarity, awareness, and activism in the face of oppression. Azagaia's music, known for its socio-political commentary, continues to be a voice for the marginalized and a catalyst for change in Mozambique.