Updated: 30 April, 2008

South Africa

• New National Orders - South Africa has established three new orders, which replace existing orders established during the period of minority rule. They were introduced on 27 April 2002 (Freedom Day: the anniversary of the re-constitution of the country in 1994). The orders reflect African themes and are highly original in design.  The Order of Mapungubwe (named after an ancient kingdom) will be conferred on South African citizens for "excellence and exceptional achievement". It has three classes: Platinum, Gold, and Bronze.  The Order of the Baobab (named after a sturdy tree) will be conferred for distinguished service, above and beyond the ordinary call of duty, in the following categories: the struggle for democracy, building democracy and human rights, nation-building, peace and security, journalism, literature, arts, culture, sport and music, business and the economy, science, medicine and technological innovation, and community service. It has three classes: Supreme Counsellor (Gold), Grand Counsellor (Silver), and Counsellor (Bronze).  The Order of the Companions of O.R. Tambo (named after the African National Congress's late leader in exile) will be conferred on foreign heads of state and other dignitaries for friendship shown to South Africa. The order has three classes: Supreme Companion (Gold), Grand Companion (Silver), and Companion (Bronze). (Ref: Arthur Radburn) (May 02)  Mbeki Unveils Three New Orders for SA (The Orders of Mapungubwe, of the Baobab and of the Companions of OR Tambo are the highest awards bestowed by the President to citizens and eminent foreign nationals for outstanding achievements. They replace the old awards, the Orders of the Southern Cross, of Good Hope, of the Star of South Africa and of Meritorious Service, as well as the Woltemade Cross for Bravery) (May 02) Western Cape Police Receive Service Medals (A total of 273 members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Cape Town, Western Cape, have been honoured for their loyal service. Six police officers received the SAPS Star for Merit for 30-years service, 17 received the SAPS Star for Faithful Service (20 years) and 250 received the SAPS Medal for Faithful Service (10 years) (May 02)

• Mandela and De Klerk tipped for top honours It is almost certain that President Thabo Mbeki will bestow the country's highest honour on his predecessors Nelson Mandela and FW de Klerk next week. The information on the awards will be gazetted today. Mandela and De Klerk, are tipped to receive the Order of Mapungubwe. The decoration is bestowed on citizens for excellence and exceptional achievement. It is expected Olof Palme, the late Swedish Prime Minister, will posthumously receive the Order of the Companion of Oliver Tambo. South African security agents were allegedly involved in Palme's assassination in Stockholm in 1986. Mbeki unveiled the new national orders on April 27. The third type of award, the Order of the Boabab, is presented to South African citizens for distinguished service in a number of fields. At least 28 people are expected to be honoured. More More Mandela heads list for country's top honours Mandela, De Klerk awarded top peace honours (Dec 02) Honours Panelists Honoured Three of the people given national honours by President Thabo Mbeki are members of the advisory council that recommended nominees for the awards. Yvonne Muthien, chief spokesman for the MTN Group , Stuart Saunders, the former University of Cape Town vice-chancellor, and Bishop Mvume Dandala, head of the Methodist Church in South Africa, each received the Order of the Baobab in the silver class. (Dec 02)

• New South African Honours: The First Recipients - President Thabo Mbeki inaugurated South Africa's new national honours with a gala presentation ceremony on 10 December 2002. The 28 recipients were:

  • Order of Mapungubwe (for exceptional achievement and excellence) - replaces the Order of the Southern Cross
    • 1st Class (Platinum)
      • Nelson Mandela OM (former president 1994-99, Nobel Peace Prize 1993)
    • 2nd Class (Gold)
      • Allan Cormack (co-inventor of the CAT scan)
      • Frederik W. de Klerk DMS (former president 1989-94, Nobel Peace Prize 1993)
      • Dr Basil Schonland OBE (posthumous) (physicist)
    • 3rd Class (Bronze)
      • Prof Peter Beighton (geneticist)
      • Hamilton Naki (research assistant connected with first heart transplant)
  • Order of the Baobab (for distinguished service) - replaces the Order of the Star of South Africa, the Order for Meritorious Service, and the Woltemade Cross for Bravery
    • 1st Class (Gold) ("Supreme Counsellor")
      • Hon. Arthur Chaskalson (Chief Justice)
      • Marinus Daling (posthumous) (former chairman of insurance giant SANLAM)
      • Prof Tamsanqa Kambule
      • Moses Mabhida
      • Hon. Ismail Mohamed (posthumous) (former Chief Justice)
      • Dr Sam Motsuenyane (former president of the National African Chamber of Commerce)
      • Friedel Sellschop (posthumous) (nuclear physicist)
      • Mark Shope (posthumous) (former trade union leader)
      • Adelaide Tambo (widow of former ANC leader-in-exile
      • Oliver Tambo and a liberation struggle leader in her own right)
    • 2nd Class (Silver) ("Grand Counsellor")
      • Rev Mvume Dandala (head of the Methodist Church)
      • Ian Haggie (posthumous)
      • Noria Mabasa (artist)
      • Yvonne Muthien (chairman of the Advisory Council on National Orders)
      • Prof Stuart Saunders (former principal, University of Cape Town)
    • 3rd Class (Bronze) ("Counsellor")
      • Elizabeth Abrahams (former MP)
      • Thelma Henderson (social development)
      • Clara Masinga (rural development)
      • Eva Mokoka (nursing sister)
      • Adele Searll (posthumous) (prominent anti-drugs campaigner)
  • Order of the Companions of O.R. Tambo (for foreign citizens who show friendship to South Africa) - replaces the Order of Good Hope
    • 1st Class (Gold) ("Supreme Companion")
      • Mohandas (Mahatma) Gandhi (posthumous) (began his political career in South Africa in the early 1900s before returning to Indai)
      • Kenneth Kaunda (former president of Zambia, where the exiled ANC was based until 1994)
      • Olof Palme (posthumous) (former Swedish prime minister) (Ref: E-mail Arthur Rathburn)

• South Africa has established three more national honours.  The first awards were made on 2 Dec 03. The Mendi Decoration is awarded for outstanding bravery in the face of danger. The first recipients include two military units: one for a sea rescue operation when a cruise liner sank off the South African coast in 1991, and one for flood relief in Mozambique a couple of years ago. The Order of Luthuli is awarded for outstanding contributions to democracy, nation- building, human rights, justice and peace - previously covered by the Order of the Baobab, which was instituted last year. The Order of Ikhamanga is awarded for excellence in the arts, culture, literature, music, journalism and sport - also previously covered by the Order of the Baobab.  The name is the Xhosa name for the strelitzia flower.  Full details at: National Orders Arthur Radburn.

•  

  • Honours at last for unsung heroes The director-general in the President's Office, Frank Chikane, who is also the Chancellor of National Orders, says comparing the list of honours from 1987 to 1994 to that of the past 10 years, a story of exclusion in honouring South African citizens is evident. "We are trying to correct that. There are (now) elements of reparation, restoration and building up a new society. Hence there are many posthumous awards, some dating back to the 19th century," Chikane said. He said it took over a year to design the last set of honours. These are:

    • The Order of Luthuli which replaces the abolished Star of South Africa;

    • The Order of Ikhamanga which is a new order; and

    • The Mendi Decoration for Bravery which replaces the Wolraad Woltemade award.

  Chikane said the orders were not exactly comparable with the old ones because they had been "completely     reconceptualised". The Order of Luthuli recognises outstanding contribution to nation building, the Order of Ikhamanga is awarded for excellence in the arts and sports, while the Mendi Decoration is for outstanding bravery. The honours area awarded in gold, silver and bronze. Yvonne Muthien, chairperson of the President's Advisory Council on National Orders, said this was the last set of new orders after unveiling the Orders of Mapungubwe and Baobab last year. Contains list of recipients. Pretoria News 02 Dec 03

• New Military Honours System - The South African National Defence Force is replacing
  its existing decorations and medals with a new series of awards.  According to advance details in the SANDF
  magazine "SA Soldier" (March 2003 issue), the awards will be:

  • the Golden Leopard, the Silver Leopard, and the Bronze Leopard for bravery

  • the Golden Protea, the Silver Protea, and the Bronze Protea for meritorious service

  • a general service medal

  • a long service medal for 10 years service. (Ref Arthur Radburn)

  • New South African Military Decorations and Medals - The South African National Defence Force officially introduced its new decorations and medals at the end of April, to coincide with the 9th anniversary of the re-constitution of South Africa and the defence forces.  They replace the old series of awards, which was introduced in 1952. In design, the new series is a blend of old and new. The suspenders and clasps are in British style, the shapes of most of the medals recall earlier awards, and the choice of ribbon colours - derived from the post-1994 national flag - continues existing associations, i.e. blue for meritorious service and green for long service. As South Africa now has eleven official languages, naming medals becomes rather complicated, especially where post-nominal letters are concerned.  It appears that each of the new awards has only one official name, in one language.  English, which is the country's only communal language, is not among them!  The Nkwe ya Gauta (NG), Nkwe ya Selefera (NS) and Nkwe ya Boronse (NB) are for different degrees of bravery. "Nkwe" is the Tswana word for "leopard", which in African culture is a symbol of strength and authority. "Gauta", "Selefera" and "Boronse" mean "gold", "silver" and "bronze" respectively. Unlike most of the previous bravery awards, which were crosses, these are stars - perhaps because South Africa no longer has an official state religion and recognises all of them. The iPhrothiya yeGolide (PG), iPhrothiya yeSiliva (PS) and iPhrothiya yeBhronzi (PB) are for different degrees of meritorious service.  "iPhrothiya" is the Xhosa and Zulu name for the protea, which is South Africa's national flower, and which has appeared on military merit awards since World War II.  "yeGolide", "yeSiliva" and "yeBhronzi" mean "gold", "silver" and "bronze" respectively. The design of the decorations appears to have been inspired by the World War II campaign stars. The ribbons are predominantly blue, the colour which has been associated with military merit ribbons since 1952. The Tshumelo Ikatelaho is a medal for operational service. It is octagonal (a shape associated with campaign medals since 1974) and displays a 9-pointed star representing the nine provinces.  The Medalje vir Troue Diens (Afrikaans for "Medal for Faithful Service") is now the only long service medal. It is to be awarded after 10 years service in the regular or reserve forces, with clasps for additional 10-year periods.  The design is simply an updated version of the old Permanent Force long service medal (dating back to 1952), with the new national coat of arms and a new ribbon.  As before, the ribbon is predominantly green, the colour which has been associated with long service ribbons since 1894. Previously, there were separate long service awards for the full-time and part-time forces.  An earlier proposal (in 1975) to emulate Canada by replacing them with a single communal award failed in view of objections from the part-time forces. How the reserve forces, which are very conscious of tradition, will react, remains to be seen. (Ref: Arthur Radburn)

• New honours for achievers Cabinet has approved a new set of orders to reward individuals for various achievements, in addition to the three designed last year. The orders would be awarded for the first time by the end of the year. The Order of Albert Luthuli would be awarded to individuals who had rendered distinguished service for democracy and human rights. The other two orders were for bravery and for creative talent - -excellence in the fields of arts, culture, literature, music, journalism and sport. The Presidency would announce the formal names of the orders, their design and details of the nomination process soon. News24.com 18 Sep 03

• South African Air Force Medals Appears to be an "un-official" site with a mixture of old and new medals

• National honours for Indian freedom fighters Jasmat Nanabhai, born and schooled in India, and Phyllis Naidoo had many friends and relatives at hand to see their efforts of decades being crowned as President Thabo Mbeki gave away the country's highest honour at a ceremony here. Nanabhai received the Order of Luthuli in Bronze for his lifelong contribution to the struggle for freedom, democracy and human rights and for inspiring and dedicated campaigning and leadership in the community. Naidoo was awarded the Order of Luthuli in Silver for outstanding contribution to human rights and the struggle against apartheid. New Kerala 14 Dec 03

• Prestigious honour for Phyllis Naidoo The government has conferred one of its most prestigious awards, the Order of Luthuli, on Durban stalwart Phyllis Naidoo, 75, for her contribution to the liberation struggle. iol.co.za 28 Nov 03

• W Cape honours its heroes The first Western Cape Provincial Honours Awards at the Cape Town Castle where 36 recipients were named including leading individuals from the cultural, sporting, business, academic and community empowerment fields. The full list of recipients at Tuesday night's ceremony were:

  • Western Cape Golden Cross: Christiaan Barnard, Natalie du Toit.
  • Order of the Disa (Commander): Archbishop Desmond Tutu.
  • Order of the Disa (Officer) entrepreneur Raymond Ackerman, author John Coetzee, advocate and media executive DP de Villiers (posthumous), academic and presidential advisor Jakes Gerwel, poet/playwright Adam Small.
  • Order of the Disa (member): Art expert and historian Frank Bradlow (posthumous); architect and developer David Jack; Helen Lieberman and Mavis Nduzulwana for community empowerment; anti-drug campaigner and philanthropist Adele Seale; entrepreneur and astronaut Mark Shuttleworth; prima ballerina Phyllis Spira; satirist, playwright and author Pieter-Dirk Uys; nature conservationist Willem van Schalkwyk (posthumous); and rugby player Chester Williams. News24, South Africa - 28 Jul 2003

• South African Honours and Awards (Militaria Africana)

  • Bophuthatswana
    Ciskei
    Gazankulu
    KaNgwane
    KwaNdebele
    KwaZulu
    Lebowa
    QwaQwa
    South West Africa
    Transkei
    Venda

• Decorations and Medals (The unofficial South African Air Force Website)

• Orders, Decorations and Medals of South Africa (Megan C. Robertson) (Mar 02)

• Pro Merito Medal The South African Military History Society Journal  Vol 1 No. 2

• Only South African to Win the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal (WORLD WAR II) The South African Military History Society Journal  Vol 1 No. 1

• Queen's South Africa Medal with 10 Bars The South African Military History Society Journal  Vol 2 No. 3

• Bars and Medals Medals of the South African War, 1899-1902, and background notes on some of the actions in which the recipients of medals in the author's collection were involved. The South African Military History Society Journal  Vol 2 No. 3

• Order of Precedence - Complete list for South African Orders, Decorations and Medals as published in that Government's Gazette 15093 Dated 3 September 1993.

• Recipients of South African Defence Force Bravery Awards (Eugene Griessel)

• WWII Medals awarded to South Africans (Eugene Griessel)

• The use of bars to decorations as post-nominal letters  - The DCC decided during 1993 that bars to decorations and medals were not to be used as additional post-nominal letters. This determination is also contained in the warrants for these honours. In the meantime, representations have been received asking that the policy be revised in order to allow bars to be used as post-nominal letters. After thorough consideration, CSANDF has decided that bars are not to be used as post-nominal letters. Bars are awards in their own right and are reflected on all relevant records. The system, as reflected in the warrants, thus remains unchanged. (Ref: Department of Defence: South Africa - Bulletin 10 September 1997 : No 66/97)

• South African Forces in Lesotho - I wonder if a medal has been, or will be, instituted for this operation? Any information appreciated. Combined Task Force Boleas (Lesotho)
  • Op Boleas - Update No. 1
  • Op Boleas - Update No. 2
  • Op Boleas - Update No. 3
  • Op Boleas - Update No. 4

• South Africa - The Western Cape provincial government has instituted its own awards, for services to the province. They are the first provincial honours to be created in South Africa. The three awards, instituted on 19 May 1999 are: 

  • The Western Cape Golden Cross for "an exceptional achievement which has served the interest of the province".   It is to be a 55mm diameter silver-gilt "globical" cross with disa flowers on the arms and a ring in the centre, and a 36mm wide neck ribbon (purple with 5mm white edges).

  •  The Order of the Disa, in three classes, for meritorious service over a significant period of time:

    • - Commander, for "excellent meritorious service" – a 66mm diameter silver-gilt cross of disa flowers with blue enamel filling the spaces between the leaves and stems, and a 36mm wide neck ribbon (purple with 5mm blue (outer) and 5mm white (inner) edges)

    •  - Officer, for "outstanding meritorious service" - a 44mm version of the above, with a 32mm ribbon 

    • - Member, for "noteworthy meritorious service" - a silver version of the Officer's badge.

  •  The Premier's Commendation Certificate.

•  Awards are to be announced annually by the provincial premier on 15 January, but the first three years will be devoted to clearing a backlog of nominations which has accumulated. (Ref: Arthur Radburn)

• Mandela museum medals mystery

• Collective Citations: South African National Defence Force (Medals Parade 19 Oct, 2000)

• Method of wearing medal ribbons as application to all women in the SANDF (Aug, 2000)

• Progress with the institution of Medals for former non-statutory Force Members (Relates to Long Service Medals) (Jul 97)

• Medals Awarded (Sep, 2000)

• The South African Air Force upheld a superb record throughout its involvement in the Second World War. 44,569 men had volunteered for service during the War and of these some 2,227 members died of which 92 had been wounded or injured whilst serving and 273 had been taken as prisoner of war. Capt E. Swales, a member of the South African Air Force seconded to the Royal Air Force, was awarded a Posthumous Victoria Cross. One member of the South African Air Force was created a companion of the Bath. Nine were made Commanders of the Order of the British Empire and 35 were admitted to the Distinguished Service Order. There were 26 OBE’s and 63 MBE’s reflected in Wartime honours and decorations to members of the South African Air Force including 429 DFC’s, 88 AFC’s, 5 MC’s, 2 George Medals, 5 King’s Medals for Bravery, 2 MM’s, 23 DFM’s, 13 AFM’s and 36 BEM’s. Some of the recipients were: Order of the British Empire – Maj P.J. Bayley, OBE, Distinguished Flying Cross - Lt Col D.W. Pidsley, DFC, Lt Col D.E. D. Meaker, DFC, Lt Col L.H.G. Shuttleworth, DFC, Lt Col W.S. Clark, DFC, Maj M.C. Hawson, DFC, Maj D.W. Pidsly, DFC, Capt A.J. Amerongen, DFC, Lt M.G. Gould, DFC, Lt J.A. Lithgow,DFC, Lt L.G. van Reenen, DFC, and Lt M.M. Yudelman, DFC. Distinguished Flying Medal – F/Sgt Julian, DFM (Ref: CSANDF Website)

• Medals and Decorations. Manufacturing of medals for the NSFs has commenced, see page 40 for various medals (NOTE: I was unable to find page 40 on this website). The warrants were also amended to include veterans as recipients. 750 Veterans have already been decorated. MK has submitted thirty-one citations for serving members which have been approved. APLA has submitted one hundred citations and these are being processed. The Minister has instructed that two campaign medals should also be instituted. The process has begun. A medal workgroup with former MK and APLA members convenes regularly in collaboration with the medal section of Personnel Division. (Ref: SANDF Website 1997-98 Report)

• SANDF Members awarded Medal by President Mandela (Jun, 1999)

• How to trace an ancestor (Who served in the Anglo-Boer War 1899-1902)

• Unitas Medal - For full details on this medal, visit The South African Medal Website

  • Unitas Medal (Awarded to British Troops) (Nov 2000)
  • Unitas medals for BMATT Members (Sep, 2000)
  • Unitas Medals for BMATT Members (Jan, 1999)

• Maj Gen Deetlefs (List of medals awarded)

• Resume of the Chief of the Navy (Vice-Admiral Robert C. Simpson-Anderson – List of medals awarded)

• Colonel Hans Jacob Bernardus Swart (List of medals awarded)

• Maj Gen J. van Rensburg (List of medals awarded)

• Lt-General Davidson Themba Masuku, MMM, O.St.J.

• Sergeant Major Eddie Heimann (List of medals awarded)

• Introducing WO1 Jacobs (List of medals awarded)

• Suharto awarded South Africa's highest honour (Order of Good Hope) (Nov 1997)  

• Tutu awarded French Legion of Honour (Jun, 1998)

• Tutu receives Meritorious Service Medal (Order for Meritorious Service (Gold) (Jun 96)

• SA troops heading to Burundi (Oct 01)

• Major General Jansen van Rensburg (Surgeon General - Biography - List medals awarded) (Nov 01)  

• Opposition MPs Express Surprise Over Modise Award (Opposition political parties reacted with surprise to news that former Defence Minister Joe Modise, who has been linked to alleged irregularities in the arms deal, has been awarded the Order of the Star of South Africa) (Nov 01)

• A bibliographical guide to secondary sources on the history of the South African National Defence Force (Compiled by Lt Col Ian van der Waag) (Medals and uniforms)

• Navy bestows honours Members of the South African navy who distinguished themselves through their efforts, bravery and unselfish loyal service were presented with military medals. One of the recipients, Lieutenant Michael Schoeman, was honoured with the Navy Cross, the highest military medal bestowed on any sailor who has performed an act of courage and bravery. Schoeman rescued a Zambian general who fell overboard off the navy's strike craft, SAS Galeshewe, at Seal Island, near Cape Point, in 2001.Other high-profile military medal recipients were Flag Officer Fleet, Rear-Admiral Eric Green, for 40 years distinguished and loyal service to the SA National Defence Force, and Shadrack Kabelo Ganda, of Metropolitan Asset Managers, who received three medals in recognition of the role he played in the former African National Congress former liberation army Umkhonto we Sizwe. News24.com 03 Oct 03

• Mbeki honours four national heroes President Thabo Mbeki bestowed four national awards in the Union Buildings today. The awards were conferred posthumously to Jake Ntuli, Charlotte Maxeke, Bessie Head and Cissie Gool. The four were honoured for their selfless sacrifice, courage and commitment to the struggle against apartheid. Mbeki conferred the Order of Ikhamanga to Head, a renowned writer, and Ntuli a boxer. Head received her award in gold for her exceptional contribution to literature and the struggle for social change, freedom and peace. She spent 15 years in a refugee community in Botswana. Ntuli was awarded the same Order in silver for boxing in the apartheid era. Ntuli became a professional boxer in 1950. He was the first black boxer to receive world acclaim. Maxeke and Gool were awarded the Order of Luthuli. Gool was a member of the Socialist Party, but in 1936 she founded the national liberation league and became its first president. Maxeke led a campaign in the Free State against the carrying of passes by women. She was a leading figure in the formation of Bantu women's league. She also led a delegation to Louis Botha, who was the prime minister at the time, to make a presentation on the implementation of passes for women. sabcnews.com  3 Feb 04

• Mbeki to honour Martin Luther King The late Martin Luther King and Independent Electoral Commission chairwoman Brigalia Bam will receive presidential awards for their contributions towards democracy. President Thabo Mbeki will honour 57 people on June 16 for distinguished service or for making sacrifices for South Africa's democracy. Twenty-two foreign recipients will receive the Order of the Companion of OR. Tambo for their contributions to democracy in the country. "This is the single largest group ever to be given the OR Tambo award," said Yvonne Muthien, chairwoman of the advisory council on National Orders, who noted that former Zambian president Kenneth Kaunda was a past recipient. sundaytimes.co.za 14 Jun 04

  • Annan, Martin Luther King among those Mbeki to honor South African President ThaboMbeki will honor a group of domestic and international figures fortheir contribution to the country's democracy.     They include United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan and late US black activist Martin Luther King. Presidential awards will be presented to 57 people for their distinguished service or for making sacrifices for South Africa's democracy. Independent Electoral Commission chairwoman Brigalia Bam will receive the Grand Counsellor of the Baobab for distinguished service for managing the country through three general elections since the end of apartheid in 1994. Twenty-two foreigners will receive the Order of the Companion of O.R.Tambo for their contributions to democracy in the country. Annan heads the list of foreigners to be awarded. He is accompanied by King, former Tanzanian president Julius Nyere, and Salim Ahmed Salim, former leader of the Organization of African Unity. news.xinhuanet.com 14 Jun 04

• New Police Decorations and Medals - The South African government has instituted a new series of police decorations and medals to replace the old awards dating from the 1960s, '70s and '80s.  Nine of the new medals are for humans, and the tenth is for police dogs and horses (which is a first in the South African honours system). The new awards, instituted by President Thabo Mbeki on 4 May 2004 and gazetted on 16 July 2004, are: SA Police Service Gold Cross for Bravery, for outstanding bravery in extreme danger SA Police Service Silver Cross for Bravery, for exceptional bravery in very dangerous circumstances SA Police Service Gold Medal for Outstanding Service, for particularly meritorious and exemplary service by senior officers (assistant commissioner and higher) SA Police Service Silver Medal for Outstanding Service, for particularly meritorious and exemplary service by other officers and lower ranks SA Police Service Commendation Medal, for particularly meritorious and exemplary service or for risking own life to protect property or save lives SA Police Service Forty Year Loyal Service Medal, for 40 years service SA Police Service Thirty Year Loyal Service Medal, for 30 years service SA Police Service Twenty Year Loyal Service Medal, for 20 years service SA Police Service Ten Year Loyal Service Medal, for 10 years service SA Police Service Canine and Equine Star for Bravery, for bravery by police dogs and horses. (Ref: email Arthur Radburn Jul 04) South African Police Service (Official Website)

• Joost's brother gets medal Joost van der Westhuizen's older brother stole the limelight from his rugby-playing brother when the police honoured him with a sought-after bravery award. Inspector Wessie van der Westhuizen and his colleague, Inspector Louwtjie Lourens, were the first police officers in Gauteng to receive the Silver Cross for bravery. The Gold Cross for bravery is presented posthumously to family of police members who had died during acts of bravery. He and Lourens got the special recognition for an incident almost six years ago when they repeatedly risked their lives to arrest three transit robbers. During a chase on the R21 highway and later in Kempton Park, the suspects fired at Van der Westhuizen and Lourens with AK-47s. news24.com 7 Oct 04

• Honoris Crux awarded to SADF soldier The last of the SA National Defence Force's Honoris Crux bravery medals has been handed to a retired Special Forces soldier for gallantry in action during the war in Angola. The Honoris Crux, instituted during the former SA Defence Force era, was replaced last year by a new decoration, part of a new series of military medals reflecting transformation since April 1994. The recipient of the last Honoris Crux - South Africa's equivalent of Britain's Victoria Cross and the American Congressional Medal of Honor - was former Special Forces operator Stuart Sterzel. Details of the action for which Sterzel was awarded the medal were sketchy - all the official notes said was that he showed "great bravery during a military operation against an armed enemy while his own life was in danger". Sterzel would not elaborate on the events in 1987 for which he was cited. At that time, the SADF was involved in Angola in some of the biggest land battles fought on the African continent since the Battle of El Alamein in 1942. It fought, along with its Unita allies, against a combined Angolan/Swapo/Cuban, Russian and Eastern Bloc force. pretorianews.co.za 25 Oct 04

• SAAF Honours its Brave Members The South African Air force (SAAF) has honoured 63 members for distinguished performance of their duties and exceptional conduct. These members are also former members of liberation movements in South Africa and were honoured for bravery, conspicuous conduct and exceptional combat leadership. A total of 163 members had been identified for honour but only 63 could make it to the ceremony in Pretoria. Those who were unable to attend included members currently serving in various peace keeping missions abroad. The honours had 14 categories. The categories included the Air Force Cross (CA), awarded to members who distinguished themselves in dangerous or critical situations and the Merit Medal in Silver that is awarded to those who served with exceptional and meticulous service and devotion to duty. There was also the Military Merit Medal, awarded to members with exceptional service or "service of high order". allafrica.com 29 Oct 04

• Mbeki to present 30 with national honours President Thabo Mbeki will bestow national orders on 30 recipients. Three South African scientists will receive the Order of Mapungubwe. Sydney Brenner will receive the Order of Mapungubwe, Gold, and Tshilidzi Marwala and Batmanathan Dayanand Reddy the Bronze. Brenner, who will be honoured for his work on the South African genome project, is said to have put South Africa on the world's medical stage. Marwala, 33, one of the youngest recipients ever, will be recognised for his "inspirational achievements" in the field of engineering science. "He won the National Youth Science Olympiad in 1989 and went on to receive degrees from a host of ... universities including London University, Oxford, Cambridge and Pretoria University," said Muthien. "He developed a tasting machine and an electronic nose for breweries." capetimes.co.za 28 Oct 04

  • Mbeki honours the brave and talented "Feeling great" and accepting his award on behalf of all New Zealanders who fought apartheid, was how Trevor Richards expressed himself after receiving the Order of OR Tambo. Mbeki presented the Order of Mendi for Bravery on naval officer Etienne Gunter (bronze), Jimmy Booysens (silver) and the late Richard Molokoane (gold) for risking their lives "so that others might live". Gunter entered rough seas twice, managing to save the life of a drowning 61-year-old woman in 2001. In August 1995, Booysens saved the lives of three children trapped in a burning house. Molokoane (1957-1985), who conducted successful sabotage missions on the Sasol plant and the defence-force base at Voortrekkerhoogte, was honoured for his role in fighting apartheid. He was killed while returning from Secunda when the former defence force found the escaping group of insurgents. Among the other recipients on Friday were South Africa's 2010 Soccer World Cup bid committee, which was awarded the Order of Ikhamanga (gold). The award was received by Danny Jordaan and Irvin Khoza. The international football federation, Fifa, was also given the Companions of OR Tambo (gold) for awarding the 2010 Soccer World Cup to South Africa. Instrumental in the decision was Fifa vice-president Lennart Johansson, who in his private capacity received the Supreme Companion of OR Tambo (gold). During the ceremony, Mbeki handed awards to scientists, poets, musicians, mathematicians, journalists and sports stars. Paralympic hero Natalie du Toit was awarded the Order of Ikhamanga (gold) for her exceptional achievements in the international sporting arena and serving as an inspiration to all South Africans. mg.co.za 29 Oct 04

• Mbeki honours Fifa executive with top award President Thabo Mbeki has honoured the Fifa executive committee by bestowing the Order of the Companions of OR Tambo upon the organisation in Pretoria today. Sepp Blatter, the Fifa president, accepted the Order on behalf of the world football governing body. Blatter is in the country to meet members of the 2010 World Cup organising committee. sabcnews.com 13 Jan 05

  • Blatter to receive SA honour news.bbc.co.uk 11 Jan 05

• South Africa to honour Jawaharlal Nehru with it's highest award South African President Thabo Mbeki decided to give his country's highest award for foreigners posthumously to India's first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru and Indonesia's former president Sukarno - the charismatic pioneers of Afro-Asian solidarity. South Africa announced the award to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Bandung Conference - the historic meeting of the newly independent Asian and African states held in 1955 - being celebrated at the ongoing Africa-Asia summit. newindpress.com 24 Apr 05

• Mbeki to Honour SA Heroes At least 26 South African heroes in politics, community work, human rights and academic fields will be bestowed the country's highest honours for their selfless contribution towards the attainment of freedom. Among those to be honoured are former anti-apartheid leaders John Dube, Anton Lembede (both posthumously), ex Parliament speaker Frene Ginwala, former lawyer and transport minister Dullah Omar, and leader Nehru Jawaharal. Mr Murphy Morobe, head of communications in the Presidency told reporters in Tshwane today that President Thabo Mbeki would bestow these leaders, several outstanding community activists, scientist and foreign leaders with national orders of Mapungubwe, Baobab, Luthuli, and the Companion of OR Tambo. Other heroes such Marjorie Manganye, a community worker and late trade unionist Flag Boshielo will be honoured for their "exceptional contribution and dedication" to the struggle for liberation and workers rights. allafrica.com 21 Apr 05

• Mbeki honours some special people Among those recognised at the presentation of National Orders in Pretoria was former Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru. He was posthumously awarded the prestigious Order of the Champions of Oliver Reginald Tambo in Gold. Nehru, a fierce opponent of apartheid, died in 1964 and received the award for "striving for the ideals of equality and justice in the world". Russian national Vladimir Shubin was awarded the Order of the Champions of Oliver Reginald Tambo in Silver for his contribution to the struggle against apartheid and colonialism in southern Africa. Mbeki conferred National Orders on a further 27 recipients, 12 of them posthumously. Former transport minister Dullah Omar was posthumously awarded the Order of Luthuli in Silver for his "excellent contribution to the building of a democratic and non-racial South Africa". Frene Ginwala, Speaker of the National Assembly between 1994 and 2004, also earned the Order of Luthuli in Silver for her "excellent contribution to the struggle against gender oppression and struggle for a non-sexist democratic society". Dr Sydney Brenner's pioneering efforts in medical research, specifically genetics, were rewarded with the Order of Mapungubwe in Gold. pretorianews.co.za 27 Apr 05

• South Africa honours Cheddi Jagan South Africa has posthumously honoured Guyana's late President Cheddi Jagan with its highest national award to distinguished international personalities - Order of Companions of O R Thambo. The award is named after the longest-serving leader of the African National Congress (ANC), President Oliver R Thambo, who is credited with playing a major role in the growth and development of the international movement against apartheid in South Africa and racism generally. The O R Thambo award in gold to Dr Jagan for his "exceptional contribution to the struggle against racial oppression and colonial exploitation", was presented at the weekend in Georgetown to his widow and former Guyana President Janet Jagan. jamaicaobserver.com 10 May 05

• Nominal Roll of S.A. Defence Force Recipients of the King George VI Coronation Medal 1937 The South African Military History Society May 05 King George VI Coronation Medal 1937 Supplement to the Nominal Roll of Recipients The South African Military History Society May 05

• SA Air Force honours officers The South African Air Force decorated 33 of its finest members yesterday at their annual medal parade. At the parade, which was held at the air force base in Durban, two warrant officers received 20 year service medals. Officers Izak Haarhoff and Jakes Meiring were both "extremely proud" of their achievements which they said were the highlight of their careers. dailynews.co.za 19 Aug 05

• Mbeki honours the brave and the brilliant Twenty-four eminent South Africans, among them former Bafana Bafana captain Lucas Radebe and reclusive award-winning author JM Coetzee, were honoured on Tuesday for outstanding achievements in various walks of life including, sport, arts, literature and politics. Most of those honoured by President Mbeki at a special ceremony at the Union Buildings were chosen for extraordinary achievements, including risking their lives to save and improve the lives of others. Some of the country's prestigious national orders awarded posthumously went to the late ANC freedom fighter Solomon Mahlangu, traditional Mbaqanga musician Mahlathini Nkabinde, literary scholar Nicolaas Petros van Wyk and journalist Henry Nxumalo better known as “Mr Drum”. Mahlangu, a former Umkhonto we Sizwe guerrilla sentenced to death in 1979 was awarded the Order of Mendi in Gold. One of the the most distinguished recipients of the order was Simon John Mthombeni of Pretoria. Mthombeni made headlines in 1991 when a plane crashed on the farm where he worked. Other farm workers were too shocked and ran away. But Mthombeni, without regard for his own life, managed to save at least three of the plane's occupants. He could not rescue a fourth, as the plane burst into flames after he had pulled out the third victim. Commented Radebe, who was conferred with the Order of Ikhamanga in Silver: “It's great to be honoured this way. This would be an inspiration to especially the youth as it sends a message that if you sacrifice and have courage and commitment, you can have a positive impact in society. It shows from some of the brave acts by some of the people here that we live in a nation that still respects those who are selfless.” int.iol.co.za 28 Sep 05

• Hon. Frene Ginwala, Speaker of National Assembly, South Africa - Awarded Grand Officier de l'Ordre National Ivory Coast, 1998 gcacma.org

• Top honour for Mbeki's mom President Thabo Mbeki's mother will receive South Africa's highest national honour, at the seventh national orders ceremony. Mbeki would confer on Epainette Mbeki the Order of the Baobab for her "exceptional contribution to the economic upliftment of the underprivileged communities in the Eastern Cape and her commitment to the fight against apartheid". The Order of the Baobab, the Order of Luthuli, the Order of the Companions of OR Tambo and the Order of Mapungubwe are conferred on men and women leaders in their fields and countries, who have contributed to a democratic South Africa. University of South Africa head Barney Pityana would be admitted into the Order of the Boabab for his "excellent contribution to a just and democratic South Africa and for the spiritual upliftment of the oppressed", the presidency said. King Moshoeshoe II of Lesotho and King Sobhuza II of Swaziland would each receive the Order of the Companions of OR Tambo for their "exceptional contributions to the struggle against apartheid through supporting the liberation movement in times of need." Botswana's former president Sir Seretse Khama would be honoured posthumously with the same order for his "exceptional contribution to the struggle against apartheid through supporting the liberation movement in times of need, and contributing to the development of the African continent." iafrica.com 18 Apr 06

  • South Africa: Highest Honours for Outstanding Individuals President Thabo Mbeki will bestow National Orders on 26 individuals for their exceptional contribution in various fields ranging from sports, science, arts and culture to the struggle for freedom. Recipients will include among others late educator, journalist and politician John Tengo Jabavu; former Botswana President Seretse Khama; politician, political activist, lawyer and journalist Pixley ka Isaka Seme; the first president of the Mali Republic Modibo Keita as well as Basotho King Moshoeshoe II and Swazi King Sobhuza. This year, the Order of Luthuli in gold will be bestowed to the late Jabavu. Born in a relatively poor Methodist home in Healdtown in the Eastern Cape, Jabavu grew up to become a staunch political activist and the editor of one of South Africa's first significant newspapers, Isigijimi SamaXhosa (the Xhosa Messenger) to be written in an indigenous language. His newspaper became the voice of the voiceless and his political views helped to shape African political thinking, having dedicated his life to causes that promoted the rights of Africans. Another posthumous honour, the Order of Luthuli in silver will be awarded to Ama Naidoo who in 1946 took part in the Passive Resistance Campaign of the South African Indian Congress against the Asiatic Land Tenure Act which sought to further restrict the ownership of land by South Africans of Indian descent. She too was aware of the gender oppression in the apartheid society, thus joining the Federation of South African Women. She attended and participated in the People's Congress at Kliptown that saw the adoption of the Freedom Charter in 1955. She was among the 20 000 women who marched to the Union Buildings in Pretoria to protest against the proposed amendments to the Urban Areas Act. Receiving the Order of the Baobab will be Professor Barney Pityana whose leadership and mobilisation of students at For Hare culminated in his expulsion from the university. Professor Pityana was in 1995 appointed as the Chairperson of the South African Human Rights Commission. He is the first black vice-chancellor and principal of the University of South Africa since 2001, a position he still holds today. allafrica.com 18 Apr 06

• Mbeki honours outstanding citizens President Thabo Mbeki is bestowing National Orders on several citizens, for their exceptional contribution that benefited the people of South Africa. The Orders are being conferred to 28 recipients in different categories. The Order of Mapungubwe is named after the Kingdom of Mapungubwe that existed hundreds of years ago. The kingdom comprised a sophisticated state system with highly developed agriculture, mining and metallurgy industries. The Order of Ikhamanga is bestowed on citizens who excelled in the fields of arts and culture, literature, journalism and sport and is this time being received by Don Mattera, Can Themba, Andre Brink, Ryk Neethling, Roland Schoeman, Alan Paton and Tiyo Soga. The Mendi Decoration for Bravery is conferred to South Africans who performed acts of bravery - some losing their lives or putting their lives in danger in that process. Recipients include, among others, political activist Elizabeth Gumede for her contribution to the struggle against apartheid; and the late Benson Tsele for his bravery in engaging the Rhodesian army in military battle for the course of freedom. The late Chief Bhambatha Ka Mncinza Zondi will also be honoured posthumously for his bravery in leading the rebellion against repressive laws of the colonialist government and for sacrificing his life for the cause of justice. The world's first black African to climb Mount Everest Sibusiso Vilane will be awarded for aspiring and excellent achievement in the field of mountaineering. President Mbeki first awarded the National Orders in 2002 and this year, the Orders are being awarded in various categories under the Orders of Baobab, Luthuli, Companions of Oliver Tambo and Mapungubwe. While the Orders have various meanings, the recipients of the Order of Mapungubwe receive three elements; a neck badge (a platinum, gold, silver or bronze medallion on a neck band), a miniature (also a platinum, gold, silver or bronze medallion for wearing as a brooch or on the breast pocket) and platinum, gold or bronze lapel rosette. The event is being attended by Chancellor of the National Orders, Rev Frank Chikane, members of the Advisory Council on National Orders, recipients and family members, as well some Cabinet ministers. buanews.gov.za 27 Sep 06

  • SA's highest honours awarded The celebrated Afrikaans author Andre Brink played down his criticism of the government's response to crime when he received a national order. Brink received the Order of Ikhamanga (Silver) for "excellent contribution to literature and fighting for a just and democratic society". The late Alan Paton, author of "Cry the Beloved Country", received the Ikhamanga award (Gold) posthumously for "exceptional contribution to literature, exposing the apartheid oppression through his work and fighting for a just and democratic society". Jazz legend Thandi Klaasen, who received the Order of Ikhamanga (Silver), said while she could not enjoy her award for much longer but hoped it would inspire young artists. Olympic swimming gold medallists Ryk Neethling and Roland Schoeman were amongst the sportspeople who received orders. Oscar Pistorius, Paralympic gold medal winner and world record holder in the 100, 200 and 400 metres, was awarded the Order of Ikhamanga (Bronze) for "inspiring achievements in the field of athletics and contributing to the well-being of people with disabilities in Africa". One of the few gold awards was posthumously awarded to Bhambatha ka Mancinza Zondi, the Zulu chief who led his warriors in a rebellion against the British in 1906 against a poll tax. He was awarded the Order of Mendi (Gold), which was also given to Benson Tsele, an Umkhonto we Sizwe (MK) cadre who was killed in a fight with the Rhodesian Army. It was not only famous people who received National Orders. Marcel Christian van Rossum, a Pretoria resident, received the Order of Mendi (Bronze) for "displaying an act of bravery and courage by putting his life at risk to save the lives of drowning children". Without concern for his own safety, he jumped into the sea at St Lucia beach in KwaZulu-Natal in 2001 to save two boys Sipho (16) and Sibongiseni (13), who were swept away by a current. iafrica.com 27 Sep 06

  • South Africa honours 27 outstanding citizens Complete List of Recipients iol.co.za 28 Sep 06

• " Good Hope " The Golden Medal The 28th of October coincides with the anniversary in which the prominent African Freedom Fighter, Nelsen Mandela had decorated the Leader of the Revolution on this same day of 1997 with the " Good Hope " Golden Medal, the highest decoration granted by South Africa to honor those who had made great contributions to support the struggle of South African people to confront the apartheid regime. The African Freedom Fighter, Nelson Mandela has come to Great Jamahiriya on that day specially to decorate the Leader with this sublime medal . The decoration took place in a huge celebration at a hall that was named since then " Mandela Hall " in the city of Zawara, of al-Niqat al-Khams Shabia. This distinctive decoration by the great African Freedom Fighter, Nelson Mandela came to prove the pioneering rule played by the Leader of the Revolution in liberating the African continent from colonialism and racism, as well as his support for peoples struggle in defending their just causes for the sake of freedom peace and development. en.libc.net 28 Oct 06

• Police dog gets bravery medal Four Star of Bravery (canine and equestrian) medals were awarded to police dogs. Of the four, only Bobbie, a dog of handler Inspector Lappies Labuschagne, was still alive to receive the medal. Earlier this year Bobbie was used when a man assaulted police officers with a spade and stabbed several of them with a sharp object. "Bobbie took the man down and held him down until we could restrain him," Labuschagne said. It was only afterwards that they found that Bobbie had sustained a skull fracture because he had been beaten over the head with the spade. A veterinarian in Vryburg where the incident took place told Labuschagne that it was not possible to help Bobbie, but police veterinarians at Roodeplaat managed to save him and after three weeks he was back on the beat. news24.com 10 Nov 06

• Saddam medals on show in SA - A South African soldier's passion for military memorabilia led him to buy a set of medals belonging to executed Iraqi ruler Saddam Hussein - and they are now on display in Johannesburg. "Medals tell the story of a country. The medals are very, very colourful and the medals and medallions tell a story," said William Endley, a retired national defence force colonel now working for a United States de-mining company. In mid-2004 he was working in Iraq when he was offered a set of Saddam's awards by a former soldier who probably bought them from a Baghdad medals dealer. Endley immediately bought the collection. "It was quite an expensive little exercise." In January, he loaned Saddam's medals to the SA National Museum of Military History where they are on display to the public. The collection is in excellent condition and includes sashes, medals and orders. There is a photograph of Saddam, taken more than 20 years ago and wearing full dress uniform with his awards. Museum staff say there has been great interest in the collection, particularly from military experts. "It's quite a coup," said museum spokesman Allan Sinclair. Museum acting director Sandi MacKenzie said it was unusual to get such a collection so soon after the original owner's death or fall from power. "It normally takes us 100 years to get something like this." Experts believe the collection is genuine. MacKenzie explained that heads of state often have duplicate sets of medals and orders, for travelling. MacKenzie said the first four medals Saddam was awarded were for gallantry and these he got before taking power. "He earned them as a soldier would earn them." His awards include the rare Wisam al-Jadara or Order of Merit - awarded to only three or four Iraqi rulers - and for the 1948-'49 Palestinian War, for crushing the Kurdish rebellion, for the 1963 and 1968 revolutions, for co-operation with Syria, for peace in 1970, and for the 1973 war with Israel. His Order of the Mother of Battles has a star and a sash in the red, black and white of the Iraqi flag with "Allah Akbar" (God is Great) on it, for the 1991 Gulf War against Kuwait and the US. Saddam received the Order of the Two Rivers, which Endley described as the piece of which he was proudest. This was a civilian and military award, and had republican and royal versions. Saddam wore a military version. news24.com 16 Jan 07

• Medals for long-serving officers Members of the police have been urged to step up a gear to improve service delivery to communities. The message came from Commissioner Joseph Ngobeni of the national police communications division during the Medals Parade. Ngobeni, who was honoured with a 30-years’-service medal, said members must have a passion for work, must be committed and do what the community wants. They must also be confident in their work and have empathy with the victims. About 100 dedicated and loyal officers, who served 10, 20 and 30 years, were presented with medals. They were also given commemoration medals marking 10 years of transformation in the police service. citizens.co.za 12 Feb 07
• South Africa to Honour Eric Williams Posthumously On April 24, 2007, the President of the Republic of South Africa, His Excellency Thabo Mvuyelwa Mbeki, will bestow posthumously on Dr. Eric Williams, the first Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, South Africa’s SUPREME ORDER OF THE COMPANIONS OF O.R. TAMBO (Gold). The tribute, in recognition of Dr. Williams’ commitment to peace and co-operation, and his inspiration to South Africa’s own quest for unity and harmony, will be received by his daughter, Erica Williams Connell in Pretoria. A noted Caribbean statesman, consummate historian and head of government for a quarter of a century until his death in 1981, Dr. Williams was consistently passionate in his denouncement of and activism against apartheid. He led his country to Independence from Britain in 1962 and onto Republicanism in 1976. His seminal work, Capitalism and Slavery (taught in South Africa as a means of resistance during that era and translated into eight languages – Russian, Chinese, Japanese and Korean, among them), according to Duke University Professor William Darity, “…must be addressed by any serious scholar of slavery and the slave trade,” “The vision…during our struggle for liberation was…strikingly similar to the vision of that great West Indian historian and prime minister, Eric Williams…[who] directly addressed the great diversity of his country in the cause of national unity. news.bn.gs 8 Apr 07
• Mbeki to bestow honours on 23 Richard Maponya and the late Eric Molobi, two of South Africa's black business pioneers, will be awarded the Grand Counsellor of the Baobab when President Mbeki bestows national orders on 23 citizens and foreigners. Maponya, 81, proved himself to be a top businessman long before 1994, while Molobi is credited with laying the groundwork for black economic empowerment. Mbeki will also confer the Order of the Supreme Companion of OR Tambo, posthumously, on the late leader of Lesotho, Leabua Jonathan, who supported the ANC. One of the recipients of the Grand Companion of OR Tambo is US music sensation and actor Harry Belafonte. Belafonte, 80, was one of the organisers behind the Grammy Award-winning song We Are The World, a multi-artist effort to raise funds against hunger in Africa. Johnstone Makatini, a diplomat who put the ANC on the international map, will posthumously be honoured with the Order of Luthuli in silver. Author and US scholar Dr Ali Mazrui will receive the Order of the Grand Companion of OR Tambo. A former Palestinian ambassador to SA, Salman El-Herfi, will receive the Order of the Companion of OR Tambo. iol.co.za 22 Apr 07

• Order of Merit Awarded Former South Africa President Frederick De Klerk and former Cape Verde President Antonio Mascarenhas have been awarded the Orden Civil al Mérito, categoría Gran Cruz Extraordinaria (Order of Merit, Extraordinary Grand Cross Class), by the government of the city of Bogotá, Colombia's capital. In the picture are Carlos Moreno de Caro (Colombian Ambassador to South Africa), Frederick De Klerk (former President of South Africa), Luis Eduardo Garzón (Mayor of the Coty of Bogotá) and Antonio MAscarenhas (former President of Cape Verde). elespectador.com 9 Aug 07

• WWF celebrates award of South African honour to Chief Emeka Anyaoku The award of South Africa’s highest honour for a non-South African to WWF President Chief Emeka Anyaoku is a well-deserved recognition of an outstanding international leader, WWF said. South African President Thabo Mbeki’s decision to confer the Order of the Supreme Companions of O.R.Tambo:Gold on Chief Emeka Anyaoku was announced.  “The award is in recognition of Emeka Anyaoku’s great contribution to the ending of apartheid and enthronement of democracy in South Africa,” the statement says. It cites Chief Anyaoku’s early involvement with African National Congress leader Oliver Tambo and colleagues including Nelson Mandela, and his key role as Commonwealth Secretary-General in crucial negotiations in 1991-93 that produced the agreement leading to South Africa’s first multi-racial elections. Chief Anyaoku has served as the President of the global conservation organization WWF since 2002. pr-usa.net 14 Apr 08
• 2008 National Order Recipients President Thabo Mbeki, 22 April 2008 bestowed National Orders on men and women for their prominent contribution to nation building, in their respective areas. The National Orders are the highest awards that our country bestows on its citizens and foreign nationals who have contributed to our nation’s attainment of democracy, building democracy and human rights etc.
  Recipients of the Order of the Baobab:

  v Filippus Letladi Mminele (Posthumous)
  v Zodwa Mqadi
  v Rebecca Beka Ntsanwisi
  v Raymond “Bill Hoffenberg (Posthumous)
  v Theo Kotze (Posthumous)
  v Ruth Machobane
  v Winston Njongonkulu Ndungane
  v Wiseman Nkuhlu
  v Franklin Sonn
  v Sydney Kentridge
  v Pius Langa
  
  Recipients of the Order of Luthuli:

  v Himan Bernadt (Posthumous)
  v Jean Bernadt
  v Bertha Gxowa
  v Josiah Jele
  v Zolile Malindi (Posthumo