Dr Ipyana - Wanishangaza / Utukuzwe Lyrics

“Wanishangaza / Utukuzwe” by Dr Ipyana is a Swahili praise song that gives thanks for God’s kindness. The opening lines say “Ubarikiwe milele, fadhili zako ni za milele,” meaning “Be blessed forever, Your kindness is forever,” and “Utukuzwe, umetenda mema Baba,” meaning “Be glorified, Father, You have done good.” These two thoughts are repeated, with call and response in the parentheses, so the song builds like a congregational refrain.

The middle section adds “Wanishangaza matendo yako ya ajabu,” which can be understood as “Your wonderful works amaze me,” and then states simply, “Wewe ni Mungu,” “You are God.” Praise here rests on what God has done rather than on a story from the singer’s own life.

The theme of everlasting kindness is close to Psalm 136:1, “his mercy endureth for ever,” and the language of marvelous works recalls Psalm 107:8 and Psalm 139:14. The song is brief and repetitive, and its focus is gratitude to a faithful Father who has acted well on behalf of His people.