Pretoria, South Africa – President Cyril Ramaphosa bestowed South Africa’s prestigious National Orders on 32 recipients today, including posthumous awards, at a ceremony in Pretoria.
These honors, awarded during the nation’s 30th year of democracy, recognize exceptional contributions to South Africa’s history.
“This freedom would not have been possible without the bravery and sacrifices of those who fought for justice,” Ramaphosa remarked, acknowledging the anti-apartheid heroes among the recipients.
Grand Patron of the National Orders President @CyrilRamaphosa with members of the Advisory Council on National Orders ahead of today’s Awards Ceremony.
Council members include:
Dr Mandla Landa (Chair)
Prof Patience Mthunzi-Kufa
Prof Glenda Gray
Dr Irvin Khoza
Dr Peki Emelia… pic.twitter.com/UkOusdHO4a
— The Presidency 🇿🇦 (@PresidencyZA) April 30, 2024The National Orders encompass the Order of Mendi for Bravery, the Order of Ikhamanga (excellence in arts and culture), the Order of the Baobab (community service), the Order of Luthuli (democracy and human rights), the Order of Mapungubwe (achievement in science and innovation), and the Order of the Companions of OR Tambo (foreign supporters of the anti-apartheid movement).
President Ramaphosa specifically highlighted journalists who bravely reported during apartheid and continue to uphold media freedom today. He also recognized those who excelled in science, business, and social justice initiatives.
Grand Patron of the National Orders President @CyrilRamaphosa with members of the Advisory Council on National Orders ahead of today’s Awards Ceremony.
Council members include:
Dr Mandla Landa (Chair)
Prof Patience Mthunzi-Kufa
Prof Glenda Gray
Dr Irvin Khoza
Dr Peki Emelia… pic.twitter.com/UkOusdHO4a
— The Presidency 🇿🇦 (@PresidencyZA) April 30, 2024“The recipients are chosen by the South African people themselves,” Ramaphosa explained, emphasizing their role as national heroes. “They are driven by a burning quest for social justice and a belief in equality for all.”