THE presidency is calling on South Africans to nominate people who have recorded exceptional achievements or made outstanding contributions to their respective communities or nation, for the National Orders.

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The National Orders are the highest honour that can be awarded to South Africans and are bestowed on by custodian of honour President Cyril Ramaphosa and Chancellor of National Orders, the Advisory Council of National Orders and director-general in the presidency Phindile Baleni.

Why award the National Orders?

She said that allowing nominations for the National Orders is a part of sustaining the integrity, inclusiveness and diversity of the institution.

“The National Orders are a platform for the recognition of fellow South Africans and persons globally who, in exceptional ways, have historically made or are currently making important or interesting contributions to all aspects of our national life,” she said. 

Who is allowed to nominate?

The National Orders is not restricted to anyone or any particular field.

“From politics to popular culture, as well as the recognition of bravery and honouring the nation’s esteemed scientists and innovators, the National Orders give us an opportunity annually to be inspired by and grateful to people who have done outstanding things to shape our past and our future,” said Baleni. 

The different National Orders

The National Orders that are attainable are:

• The Order of Mapungubwe – Awarded to citizens for excellence and exceptional achievement.
• The Order of the Baobab – Given for distinguished service that goes above and beyond the ordinary call of duty. It is awarded in the business and the economy, science, medicine and technological innovation and community service categories. 
• The Order of the Companions of O.R. Tambo – Awarded to eminent foreign nationals. It is awarded for friendship shown to SA. It is therefore an order of peace, co-operation and active expression of solidarity and support.
• The Order of Luthuli – Given to citizens who have made a meaningful contribution to the struggle for democracy, human rights, nation-building, justice and peace, and conflict resolution.
• The Order of Ikhamanga – Is awarded to citizens who have excelled in the fields of arts, culture, literature, music, journalism and sport.
• The Order of Mendi for Bravery – Is for citizens who have performed extraordinary acts of bravery that placed their lives in great danger, or who lost their own lives while performing those acts, including in trying to save the life of another person, or by saving property, in or outside the country. 

To nominate

Each nomination must include a motivation of why they deserve a National Order. Forms can be downloaded by visiting the presidency website, www.thepresidency.gov.za.

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