Zuma honours Van Niekerk
President Jacob Zuma, in his capacity as Grand Patron of the National Orders, yesterday bestowed awards on a long list of South African and foreign recipients at an event at the Sefako Makgatho Presidential Guesthouse in Pretoria.
“Welcome to this important day on the national calendar of our country,” said Zuma. “On this day, we celebrate freedom by recognising distinguished persons in our country and friends of our country from abroad, who have contributed in various ways to advancing humanity.
“We are honoured today to recognise these men and women locally and from abroad, who served our country with great distinction in various fields and elevated our standing in the international community.”
National Orders are the highest awards that the country, through its president, bestows on citizens and eminent foreign nationals.
Zuma said the awards were made in different fields and recognised the extent of human endeavour and contribution.
“The Order of Ikhamanga is awarded to South Africans who have excelled in the field of arts, culture, literature, music, journalism and sport. This year it is conferred on nine recipients for their outstanding contribution in their respective fields,” said Zuma.
Record-breaking South African international track and field sprinter Wayde van Niekerk scooped the Order of Ikhamanga in Gold.
However, the athlete was not present to receive his award from Zuma.
Next up, Zuma awarded the Order of the Baobab, which recognises South Africans who have contributed to community service, business and economy, science, medicine and technological innovation.
“This year we confer it on five recipients and we commend them for their exemplary and inspirational contribution in their fields,” said Zuma.
The other category was the Order of Mapungubwe, which represents excellence and is awarded to South African citizens “who have made an impact internationally and served the national interest”.
“The recipients in this category are mainly those who have excelled in scientific research and technology and attained vast international recognition, thus making this country immensely proud,” said Zuma. – ANA