PRESIDENCY INVITES NOMINATIONS FOR NATIONAL ORDERS

In a bid to honor remarkable achievements and contributions that have shaped the nation and the world, the South African Presidency has extended an open call for nominations for National Orders. The distinguished awards are the highest recognition that the country bestows upon its citizens and foreign nationals who have exhibited exceptional dedication and service.

Commenting on the significance of identifying individuals for these honors, Mr. Frederick Koomson, a member of the esteemed Banking On Africa’s Future (BOAF), emphasized the importance of celebrating community builders as “points of light” and “shining stars” that inspire hope and drive change. Mr. Koomson stated, “These individuals are the ones we can look up to and bank on, as they work tirelessly to secure Africa’s future. They represent the change agents who are solving human problems and making the world a better place.”

The call for nominations encourages citizens from all walks of life to participate in the process. Ms. Phindile Baleni, Chancellor of National Orders, highlighted the inclusiveness and diversity that these awards bring to the nation-building efforts. “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,” Ms. Baleni explained.

Established in the wake of South Africa’s transition to a non-racial and non-sexist democracy in 1994, the system of National Orders underwent a comprehensive review by the President’s Advisory Council on National Orders. The Orders were subsequently instituted in 2002 and 2003, with different categories recognizing excellence, distinguished service, international friendship, contributions to democracy, cultural achievements, and acts of bravery.

Nomination forms are available for download on the official Presidency website https://www.thepresidency.gov.za/download/file/fid/2785 and require an introductory paragraph summarizing the nominee’s achievements, a list of exceptional milestones in their career, and a description of their exceptional service or act of bravery. The deadline for submissions is 31 August 2023.

Details regarding the annual National Orders Ceremony will be announced at a later date. Nominations can be submitted via email at [email protected], faxed to 086 646 5373, or sent by post to The Chancery of Orders, Private Bag X1000, Pretoria, 0001.

As South Africans come together to honor those who have made outstanding contributions, the call for nominations serves as a reminder of the transformative power that individuals possess to shape a brighter future for their nation and the world at large.