By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
President Cyril Ramaphosa honoured South Africans and eminent foreign nationals who have done exceptionally well in supporting democracy, nation-building and inspiring the country.
Ramaphosa has bestowed national orders on eminent foreign nationals, among them Springbok captain, Siya Kolisi, Banyana Banyana coach, Desiree Elis and American singer, Tracy Chapman.
National Orders are the highest awards that South Africa bestows on those who are deemed to have contributed towards the advancement of democracy and have made a significant impact on improving the lives of South Africans.
In his address, Ramaphosa said the 33 individuals had one thing in common and that was striving to do the right thing.
He added: “They did what they did, said what they said, and acted the way they did not for prestige or fame, nor for recognition or reward, but because it was the right thing to do. In doing the right thing, their actions had a lasting and enduring impact and lived on long after them.”
“Those who are receiving national orders embody the founding values of the South African Republic, namely the achievement of equality, the advancement of human rights and freedoms, and perhaps most importantly of all, human dignity.” The Order of Mendi for bravery was awarded to three South Africans who lost their lives saving others.
The National Orders also recognise the contributions made by individuals towards building a non-racial, non-sexist, democratic and prosperous South Africa.
This year’s national orders were marred by some controversy with orders for three people – Duma Ndlovu, Freek Robinson and Mike Horne – withdrawn.
It came shortly after criticism was levelled against the planned orders for Ndlovu, specifically, who has been linked to state capture.
On Friday, the rest of the awards were awarded though with some notable recipients highlighted below:
Order of Ikhamanga recognises South African citizens who have excelled in the fields of arts, culture, literature, music, journalism and sport. It was awarded in Gold to Desiree Ellis: For her excellent contribution to football, a male-dominated sport. Her sustained excellence provides encouragement to women to excel in their respective fields of endeavour.
The Order of Ikhamanga was also award in gold to Siyamthanda ‘Siya’ Kolisi: For his inspirational leadership and contribution to rugby. He is a trailblazer in democratic South Africa by being the first black person to captain the Springboks to World Cup glory.
Order of Luthuli recognises South African citizens who have contributed to the struggle for democracy, nation-building, building democracy and human rights, justice and peace as well as for the resolution of conflict. The order was bestowed in gold onIsmail Ebrahim Ebrahim (Posthumous): For his lifelong commitment to the liberation of all South Africans. He lived by the courage of his conviction and became a formidable opponent to the repressive apartheid government.
Order of the companions of OR Tambo recognises eminent foreign nationals for friendship shown to South Africa. It is therefore an Order of peace, cooperation and active expression of solidarity and support.It was bestowed in silver on Tracy Chapman (United States of America): For her contribution to the fight for freedom by participating in efforts to free Nelson Mandela and raising awareness of human rights violations globally.
Order of Mendi for Bravery
The Order of Mendi for Bravery was awarded to three South Africans who lost their lives in the cause of saving others.
The silver order was bestowed to:
- Denver Kock
- Sister Mary Anne Thôle
- Kgomotso Thomas
Order of the Baobab
Meanwhile, the Order of the Baobab recognised citizens for distinguished service in the fields of business and the economy, science, and medicine.
This award was bestowed on Dr Jiyana Mbere for his work in the medical field and ensuring the equal distribution of medical attention to everyone who needs it.
Order in Gold
Ramaphosa also singled out Solomon Popoli Lind for posthumously receiving the Order in Gold, as a way to “give comfort to his descendants”.
The president said: “Even though his music was famous throughout the world, he never received his dues in his lifetime”.
Order of the Companions of OR Tambo
Finally, the Order of the Companions of OR Tambo recognised foreign nationals for friendship shown to South Africa.