Zuma to bestow national orders awards
A number of foreign nationals, including former Canadian prime minister Brian Mulroney and British politician Peter Hain, will be among those honoured on Tuesday when President Jacob Zuma bestows national orders in Pretoria.
The awards are bestowed on South Africans and eminent foreign nationals who have contributed immensely towards the advancement of democracy, excelled in various endeavours, as well as those who have made a significant impact on improving the lives of South Africans in various ways, the presidency said in a statement on Sunday.
“The ceremony contributes towards unity, reconciliation and building the nation. It is also a way that government gets to recognise the contributions made by individuals towards building a non-racial, non-sexist, democratic, and prosperous South Africa as envisaged in the Constitution.”
The Order of the Companions of OR Tambo recognises eminent foreign nationals for friendship shown to South Africa. It was therefore an order of peace, co-operation, and active expression of solidarity and support, the presidency said.
The order will be bestowed in silver on, among others, Hain for his excellent contribution to the fight against the injustices of apartheid and his unwavering support for the South African liberation movement; and Australian politician Gareth Evans for his excellent contribution to and support of the anti-apartheid movement.
The order will be bestowed in Gold on Mulroney for his exceptional contribution to the liberation movement of South Africa.
Among the recipients of The Order of Mendi for Bravery, which recognises South African citizens who have performed acts of bravery, will be Jetro Ndlovu (bronze) for his outstanding contribution to the fight for freedom, equality, and democracy in South Africa; and Joe Morolong (posthumous) (silver) for his excellent contribution to the fight for liberation in South Africa.
The Order of Ikhamanga recognises South African citizens who have excelled in the fields of arts, culture, literature, music, journalism, and sport. Included on the list are author Themba Patrick Magaisa (bronze); sportsman Darius Mfana Dhlomo (posthumous) (silver); broadcaster Winnie Mahlangu (silver); and musician Ramakgobotla John Mekoa (silver).
The Order of the Baobab, which recognises South African citizens who have contributed to community service, business and economy, science, medicine, and technological innovation; and the Order of Luthuli, which 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, will also be bestowed on a number of prominent South Africans.