President Ramaphosa invites public members for 2020 National Orders nominations

The next National Orders awards investiture ceremony will take place on April 2020, honoring South Africans and eminent foreign nationals who have contributed to the achievement of a free, united, non-racial, non-sexist, prosperous and democratic South Africa in various ways.

The Grand Patron of the National Orders, President Ramaphosa, invites members of the public to nominate persons from all walks of life who, in their view, are deserving of the country's highest honors, the National Orders, in April next year.

The next National Orders awards investiture ceremony will take place on April 2020, honoring South Africans and eminent foreign nationals who have contributed to the achievement of a free, united, non-racial, non-sexist, prosperous and democratic South Africa in various ways. Also honored are citizens who have sacrificed life and limb to save others and those who have excelled in various fields.

The ceremony contributes towards unity, reconciliation, and nation-building.

The selection process of the awards will be processed and administered by the National Orders Advisory Council appointed by the President of the Republic.

The members of the Council are:

Ms. Brigitte Mabandla (Chairperson)

Mr. Mandla Langa (Deputy Chairperson)

Dr. Glenda Gray

Dr. Molefi Oliphant

Dr. Lindiwe Mabuza

Prof Malegapuru Makgoba

Mrs. Sally Padayachie

Rev. Buti Tlhagale

Mr. James Motlatsi

Dr. Fazel Randera, and

Ms. Nothembi Mkhwebane

The following six orders are bestowed annually on deserving recipients:

The Order of Mendi for Bravery recognizes South African citizens who have performed acts of bravery.

The Order of Ikhamanga recognizes South African citizens who have excelled in the fields of arts, culture, literature, music, journalism, and sport.

The Order of the Baobab recognizes South African citizens who have contributed to community service, business and economy, science, medicine, and technological innovation.

The Order of Luthuli recognizes 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.

The Order of Mapungubwe recognizes South Africans who have excelled and attained exceptional achievement to the benefit of South Africa and beyond.

The Order of the Companions of OR Tambo recognizes eminent foreign nationals for friendship shown to South Africa. It is, therefore, an Order of peace, cooperation and active expression of solidarity and support.

(With Inputs from South African Presidency Release)