National Orders: Ramaphosa pays tribute to Harry Belafonte and others

President Cyril Ramaphosa presented South Africa’s highest accolades, the National Orders, to South Africans and foreign nationals who have put themselves at the service of the country.

This year’s ceremony marked the first full ceremony since 2019 without Covid-19 restrictions.

The president highlighted the symbolism of the timing of the ceremony, which followed a state visit from President Hage Geingob of Namibia and President Sauli Niinistö of Finland.

National Orders 2023

Ramaphosa said those who receive National Orders “embody the founding values of the South African Republic”.

The values include achievement of equality, the advancement of human rights and freedoms, and perhaps most importantly of all, human dignity.

Harry Belafonte tribute

Ramaphosa paid tribute to Harry Belafonte, who passed away the day before the ceremony.

“On Wednesday, 26 April, we received the sad news that Harry Belafonte, a towering figure in the civil rights movement and a great friend of the South African people had passed away,” Ramaphosa said.

The president said as much as he was saddened by the passing of Belafonte, it’s comforting to know he was able to extend his “appreciation to him in his lifetime”.

Order of Mendi for Bravery

The Order of Mendi for Bravery was awarded to three South Africans who lost their lives in the cause of saving others.

The silver order was bestowed to:

• Denver Kock
• Sister Mary Anne Thôle
• Kgomotso Thomas

Order of Luthuli

The Order of Luthuli recognised eminent scholars, liberation fighters, and activists who risked their lives to amplify the voice of the oppressed during apartheid.

The order of Luthuli in gold was bestowed to posthumously to Ethel de Keyser and Ebrahim Ismail Ebrahim.

The order in silver was bestowed to Molly Bellhouse Blackburn (posthumously), and to Moki Jacob Bonisile Cekisani

Order of Ikhamanga

The Order of Ikhamanga recognised South Africans who excelled in the arts, culture, literature, music, journalism, and sport.

Banyana Banyana Coach Desiree Ellis was bestowed the gold order for her contribution to football, while Springbok captain Siya Kolisi received the gold order for his leadership and contribution to rugby.

Dr Mfundi Vundla received the Silver order for his sterling work in the South African television and film industry.

Order of the Baobab

Meanwhile, the Order of the Baobab recognised citizens for distinguished service in the fields of business and the economy, science, and medicine.

This award was bestowed on Dr Jiyana Mbere for his work in the medical field and ensuring the equal distribution of medical attention to everyone who needs it.

Order in Gold

Ramaphosa also singled out Solomon Popoli Lind for posthumously receiving the Order in Gold, as a way to “give comfort to his descendants”.

The president said: “Even though his music was famous throughout the world, he never received his dues in his lifetime”.

Order of the Companions of OR Tambo

Finally, the Order of the Companions of OR Tambo recognised foreign nationals for friendship shown to South Africa.