On Tuesday, President Cyril Ramaphosa conferred the 2024 National Orders Awards on recipients across various categories, in recognition of their bravery, excellence in arts and culture, community service, and contributions to democracy.
2024 National Orders Awards: This year’s recipients announced
The awards are segmented into several orders: the Order of Mendi for Bravery, the Order of Ikhamanga, the Order of the Baobab, the Order of Luthuli, the Order of Mapungubwe, and the Order of the Companions of OR Tambo.
Order of Mendi for Bravery
The Order of Mendi for Bravery is awarded to South African citizens who have demonstrated acts of bravery.
This year’s posthumous recipients include Mawilliams Kekana, Ignatius ‘Iggy’ Mthebule, Makhwezi McDonald Mtulu, Robert Anthony Basil Waterwitch, and Coline Denise Williams, all recognised for their courageous efforts against the apartheid regime.
Order of Ikhamanga
The Order of Ikhamanga acknowledges South Africans who have excelled in arts, culture, literature, music, journalism, and sport.
This year’s recipients include Nontando ‘Noni’ Helen Jabuva and Aggrey Klaaste (both posthumously), celebrated for their journalism; Madala Muzwakhe Kunene, for his contributions to jazz music; and others who have significantly impacted cultural and artistic fields.
Order of the Baobab
The Order of the Baobab is given for outstanding community service and advancements in business, science, medicine, and technology.
This year, Blanche Valeria La Guma (posthumously) and Zukiswa Patricia Matolengwe were among those honoured for their dedication to social justice and community empowerment.
Order of Luthuli
The Order of Luthuli recognises contributions to the struggle for democracy, nation-building, and the promotion of human rights.
Among this year’s posthumous recipients were Mxolisi ‘Dicky’ Jacobs, Peter Cyril Jones, and Benjamin Langa, who are celebrated for their roles in advocating for equality and justice.
Order of the Companions of OR Tambo
This order honours foreign nationals who have shown friendship and support to South Africa.
2024 recipients included Huub Bammens from the Netherlands, Donna Katzin from the United States, and others who have actively supported the South African liberation movement or promoted awareness of apartheid injustices globally.
Watch the complete 2024 National Orders Awards ceremony below:
PLEASE NOTE: The third-party content below is shared on our platform for journalistic purposes. Swisher Post, its parent company, partners and affiliates shall not be held liable for any consequence that arises from the journalistic duties performed in sharing this content.
