Why were two national anthems sung?
Two national anthems were sung to symbolise the unity and equality of the new democratic South Africa, where both racial groups were recognised equally. The whites sang 'Nkosi Sikelel –iAfrika', which was the anthem of the black people, and the blacks sang 'Die Stem', the old anthem of the Republic associated with the whites.
This exchange of anthems represented the end of the harsh system of racial domination and the birth of a society that recognised the rights and freedoms of all people, regardless of the colour of their skin. Although neither group knew the lyrics of the anthem they once despised, they would soon know the words by heart, showing their commitment to reconciliation.
Explanation
The textbook context clearly states that the day was symbolised by the playing of two national anthems, with whites singing 'Nkosi Sikelel –iAfrika' and blacks singing 'Die Stem'. This exchange represents the dismantling of the apartheid system of racial domination and the creation of a new, inclusive South Africa. The fact that each group sang the other's anthem signifies mutual acceptance and the end of racial prejudice that had divided the country for decades.