By Safiu Kehinde
In a matter of hours, the Super Eagles of Nigeria will face their old rivals, Tunisia at the African Cup of Nations’ round of 16. Nigeria was pitched against the Eagles of Carthage who finished third at the group stage.
Prior to today’s meeting, both teams have locked horns in five occasions where the Super Eagles of Nigeria emerged as the superior with 3 wins, 1 draw, and 1 loss which was the 2004 AFCON showdown where Tunisia edged past the Super Eagles via Penalty shootout.
While we await another epic clash of the two Eagles, let us take a look at 5 interesting facts about Tunisia.
1. Mourning is symbolized by red colour
Different countries have different colours representing their state of grievance — most especially in the case of death. While the West depicts mourning with black which is also used by Nigeria and most parts of Africa, some countries like India use white. But for the Tunisians, red is their colour of mourning. This might make you wonder why their flag is painted red. It is out of historical reason. The red color actually represents the blood that the Tunisians shed during the war against the Ottoman Empire in 1574.
2. Host most of Star Wars movie shoots
Fans of Star Wars movie might be surprised here that most of this panoramic film was shot at Tunisia. Since the inception of the movie in 1977, Tunisia have seen some of the monumental locations used as scenes in Star Wars. Notable among these locations are Hotel Sidi Driss at Matmata, Avenue 7 Novembre at Medenine, and Ajim town.
3. Two-third of the country’s land is used for Agriculture
Despite being situated far north of Africa, Tunisia is renown for the huge agricultural landmass. According to arabamerica.com, 64.84% of Tunisia’s land was used for agriculture in 2016. The sector makes about 13% of Tunisia’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Tunisia’s largest agricultural export is olive oil.
4. Home to the fourth most important city in the Muslim world
After Mecca, Medina, and Jerusalem, the fourth most important city in Islamic World is Kairouan — an ancient city situated in the Centre region of Tunisia. It was established in 670 A.D- equivalent to the 9th century. It is considered as one of holiest city in Islam parlance based on its establishment and spiritual inclination. Despite the transfer of Tunisia’s capital to Tunis, Kairouan remains the Maghreb’s principal holy city. With the existence of ancient structures like the Great Mosque of Uqba built in the 7th century and Mosque of the Three Gates built in the 9th century, Kairouan is considered as UNESCO heritage site.
5. Has one of the most terrifying national anthems
Beyond the melodious tune of Tunisia’s national anthem lies deep terrifying message. Written by an Egyptian in the 1930s, ‘Humat Al Hima’ which is translated to ‘Defenders of the Homeland’ is so strong with cold-shivering lyrics. While we vow to serve our father’s land with love and strength and faith, the Tunisians are ready to serve their motherland with their life on the line. Take look at an extract from the lyrics:
“O defenders of the Homeland!
Rally around to the glory of our time!
The blood surges in our veins,
We die for the sake of our land.
Let the heavens roar with thunder
Let thunderbolts rain with fire.
Men and youth of Tunisia,
Rise up for her might and glory.
No place for traitors in Tunisia,
Only for those who defend her!
We live and die loyal to Tunisia,
A life of dignity and a death of glory.”
