In order to reiterate his vision, President Jacob Zuma of South Africa calls on the citizens to work collectively in this post-apartheid era. Fortifying national unity is the means of building a progressive country where everyone can benefit.
National Orders
President Zuma expressed his vision during a ceremony that bestowed National Orders to exceptional South African citizens who have contributed to the country’s well-being. Foreign nationals who have made a positive impact on the economic, social and political successes of the country were also conferred recognition during the ceremony.
The National Orders are annual awards that are conferred every April 27, 2013, South Africa’s Freedom Day. This year it was held at the Sefako Makgatho Presidential Guest House. The President said that the awardees that were recognized during the prestigious ceremony represented the restoration of human dignity, unity and peace in South Africa.
As one nation
According to the President, the National Orders honor individuals who suffer for freedom and justice and those who have worked to improve humanity and elevate South Africa to greater heights. He said that the ceremony elevates the spirit expressed in the preamble of the South African Constitution.
President Zuma called on the awardees to continue with their work in promoting excellence and selflessness. He invited everyone to continue walking along “the trails of these leading lights” and continue working together as one nation.
Outstanding human beings
President Zuma conferred the following orders to deserving citizens and foreign nationals:
The Order of the Baobab is awarded to exceptional South Africans in the fields of business, economics, medicine, science, and technology as well as those who have made a mark in community service. Some of the recipients were Suraya ‘Bibi’ Khan, Colin Wells Eglin, Sayed Mohamed Ridwan Mia and Yusuf Abramjee.
One of the recipients of the Order of Ikhamanga was Olympian swimmer Chad de Clos who participated in the Summer Olympics in London in 2012. Another recipient was Pretty Yende for her achievements in world opera and for serving as a role model for South African musicians.
The Order of Luthuli was awarded to South Africans who have contributed to conflict resolution, nation-building, human rights, democracy, justice and peace. Some of the recipients are Essop Essak Jassat, Mosibudi Mangena, Richard Mothupi, and Moosa Mooila. A number of posthumous awards were given in this category.
The Order of Mapungubwe is bestowed to citizens who have demonstrated excellence and exceptional achievement for South Africa and beyond. The recipients were Malegapuru William Makgopa, Quarraisha Abdool Karim, Dr Bennie Fanaroff, and Dr Glenda Gray.
The Order of Mendi for Bravery for South Africans who have shown acts of bravery. The recipients of the Order of Mendi for Bravery were Riot Makhomanisi Mkhwanazi, Alfred Duma, and Cletus Mzimela.
The Order of the Companions of OR Tambo is an order of cooperation, peace, and the expression of support and solidarity. This is reserved for foreign nationals who are friendly to South Africa. The recipients included Dina Forti, Linden Forbes, and Reverend Jesse Louis Jackson.
Facebook
Twitter
Pinterest
Google+
LinkedIn
Email