President Ramaphosa Honours 2026 National Orders Recipients for Shaping Democratic SA

President Cyril Ramaphosa has praised the recipients of the 2026 National Orders as extraordinary men and women whose lifelong contributions have helped shape a democratic South Africa founded on equality, justice, dignity and human rights.

A celebratory atmosphere filled the Sefako Makgatho Presidential Guest House in Tshwane on Tuesday as recipients, family members, dignitaries and invited guests gathered for the prestigious ceremony where the country’s highest honours were officially conferred.

The occasion was marked by jubilation, applause and emotional moments as South Africans from various sectors of society were recognised for their exceptional service and achievements.

President Pays Tribute to Nation Builders

Addressing guests before presenting the honours, President Ramaphosa said the recipients had become pillars of South African society through their activism, talent, leadership and dedication to national progress.

“We have gathered here this morning to honour those among us who, in many diverse ways, have shaped the country that we call home,” the President said.

The National Orders are South Africa’s highest civilian honours awarded by the President to South African citizens and distinguished foreign nationals who have made outstanding contributions to the country and humanity.

President Ramaphosa said the recipients represented generations of patriots whose sacrifices, achievements and commitment gave life to the vision of a free and democratic South Africa.

Honourees Recognised Across Multiple Fields

The President highlighted that this year’s recipients came from a broad range of sectors and professions that have enriched national life and strengthened the country’s democratic foundations.

“Their activism has extended to music, politics, sports, literature, culture, medicine, science, education and the advancement of human rights. In their many fields of endeavour, they have made an invaluable contribution to our national life,” he said.

The ceremony recognised achievements in:

• Arts and culture;

• Literature and music;

• Politics and liberation activism;

• Sports;

• Science and medicine;

• Education;

• Human rights advocacy, and

• Public service.

Orders Bestowed During Ceremony

President Ramaphosa conferred several categories of National Orders during the ceremony, including:

• The Order of Ikhamanga;

• The Order of the Baobab;

• The Order of Luthuli;

• The Order of Mapungubwe, and

• The Order of the Companions of OR Tambo.

Each order recognises different forms of service and achievement that have contributed to South Africa and the international community.

Order of Ikhamanga Celebrates Arts, Culture and Sport

Speaking about the Order of Ikhamanga, which honours excellence in arts, culture, literature, music, journalism and sport, President Ramaphosa said the recipients reflected the diversity and richness of the South African experience.

He said the honourees demonstrated the enduring power of sport and culture in expressing the aspirations, struggles and triumphs of the nation.

“It is a testimony also to the diversity and richness of the South African experience and the many ways in which the life of our nation is interpreted and expressed,” he said.

Scientific Excellence Recognised Through Order of Mapungubwe

The President also highlighted the significance of the Order of Mapungubwe, which honours South Africans who have achieved exceptional excellence benefiting both the country and humanity beyond its borders.

Ramaphosa said the achievements of this year’s recipients reflected South Africa’s growing international standing in fields such as science and medicine.

“Their achievements remind us that scientific endeavour is inseparable from the pursuit of human progress and well-being,” he said.

“We seek knowledge not for its own sake, but to protect lives, to improve health and to build a better life for all.”

The President noted that scientific innovation and research continue to play an important role in advancing national development and improving quality of life.

Order of the Baobab Recognises Nation Builders

Recipients of the Order of the Baobab were honoured for contributions in fields that have become foundational to modern South African society.

The award recognises outstanding service to the nation in areas including business, community service, public affairs and economic development.

President Ramaphosa said the recipients had contributed significantly to building and strengthening the democratic state.

Liberation Struggle Veterans Honoured

The Order of Luthuli was conferred on individuals recognised for their dedication to a non-racial, non-sexist and democratic South Africa.

“It recognises the men and women whose activism lit the path to our freedom and to those who continue to keep that flame burning,” the President said.

Ramaphosa emphasised the importance of honouring liberation struggle veterans while they are still alive to preserve the country’s living history and inspire future generations.

“Though the passage of time has robbed us of many of the brave men and women who were at the forefront of the struggle for liberation, we celebrate those who are still here: to tell their stories and to impart a living legacy to the next generation,” he said.

Tribute to International Allies of South Africa

The President also paid tribute to foreign nationals honoured with the Order of the Companions of OR Tambo.

The award recognises international figures who demonstrated solidarity and friendship towards South Africa during the struggle against apartheid and in support of democracy and human rights.

“We did not win our freedom alone. We were carried by a great tide of human solidarity that stretched across our continent and the globe,” Ramaphosa said.

Families of Recipients Recognised

President Ramaphosa thanked the families of recipients for their support and sacrifices, acknowledging the role they played in enabling the honourees to serve the country.

“I would like to acknowledge the families present here today and thank them on behalf of all South Africans for lending us these great sons and daughters of the soil,” he said.

The ceremony included emotional moments as families celebrated the recognition of loved ones whose contributions have impacted communities and the nation.

National Orders Reflect Constitutional Values

The President said the recipients embody the same values of dignity, equality, freedom and justice that underpin South Africa’s Constitution.

“In a land of innumerable heroes and heroines, the South African people have decided that it is these men and women they will lift to the sky. This is the greatest honour,” he said.

President Ramaphosa officially declared the recipients esteemed Members of the National Orders under powers vested in him by the Constitution.

“The people of South Africa salute them all,” he concluded.

Symbol of National Recognition and Unity

The National Orders remain one of the country’s most important symbols of recognition for exceptional service and contribution to society.

Observers say the ceremony serves not only to honour individual achievement but also to celebrate South Africa’s democratic journey, cultural diversity and enduring commitment to justice and human dignity.

The event once again highlighted the role played by ordinary citizens, activists, artists, scientists and leaders in shaping the country’s social, political and cultural identity.