South Africa Honors 38 With National Orders

Why this is here: Oscar Mdlongwa, a kwaito pioneer and DJ, was honored for creating opportunities for young musicians, extending his success as an entrepreneur.

President Cyril Ramaphosa conferred South Africa’s National Orders on 38 recipients at the Sefako Makgatho Presidential Guesthouse in Pretoria on May 19th. The ceremony recognized individuals across arts, culture, community service, and science. Wouter Kellerman, a Grammy-winning flautist, and jazz musician Jonathan Butler received the Order of Ikhamanga in Gold and Silver respectively.

The awards also honored those who fought against apartheid, such as activists Jack and Ray Simons and Mmagauta Molefe. Posthumous awards acknowledged foundational figures like Todd Matshikiza, composer of the musical King Kong, and writer Dalene Matthee, known for her novels set in the Knysna Forest.

Several recipients, including Professors Tulio de Oliveira and Salim Abdool Karim, were recognized for their contributions to medical science, particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic. The Order of the Companions of OR Tambo honored international allies like Teresa Hillary Clarke for their support of South Africa. The full list includes individuals whose work continues to shape South African society, though Dorkay House, a historic cultural center, still awaits formal preservation.