Kolisi, Ellis, Chapman among recipients of National Orders

President Cyril Ramaphosa has bestowed national orders on eminent foreign nationals, among them Banyana Banyana coach, Desiree Elis, Springbok captain, Siya Kolisi, and American signer, Tracy Chapman.

National Orders are the highest awards that South Africa bestows on those who are deemed to have contributed towards the advancement of democracy and have made a significant impact on improving the lives of South Africans.

The National Orders also recognise the contributions made by individuals towards building a non-racial, non-sexist, democratic and prosperous South Africa.

This year’s national orders were marred by some controversy with orders for three people  - Duma Ndlovu, Freek Robinson and Mike Horne - withdrawn.

It came shortly after criticism was levelled against the planned orders for Ndlovu, specifically, who has been linked to state capture.

On Friday, the rest of the awards were awarded though with some notable recipients highlighted below:

 ALSO READ: Knee injury could rule Springboks captain Kolisi out of World Cup

THE ORDER OF IKHAMANGA recognises South African citizens who have excelled in the fields of arts, culture, literature, music, journalism and sport. It was awarded in Gold to Desiree Ellis: For her excellent contribution to football, a male-dominated sport. Her sustained excellence provides encouragement to women to excel in their respective fields of endeavour. 

 The Order of Ikhamanga was also award in gold to Siyamthanda ‘Siya’ Kolisi: For his inspirational leadership and contribution to rugby. He is a trailblazer in democratic South Africa by being the first black person to captain the Springboks to World Cup glory.

THE ORDER OF LUTHULI recognises South African citizens who have contributed to the struggle for democracy, nation-building, building democracy and human rights, justice and peace as well as for the resolution of conflict. The order was bestowed in gold onIsmail Ebrahim Ebrahim (Posthumous): For his lifelong commitment to the liberation of all South Africans. He lived by the courage of his conviction and became a formidable opponent to the repressive apartheid government.

THE ORDER OF THE COMPANIONS OF OR TAMBO recognises eminent foreign nationals for friendship shown to South Africa. It is therefore an Order of peace, cooperation and active expression of solidarity and support.It was bestowed in silver on Tracy Chapman (United States of America): For her contribution to the fight for freedom by participating in efforts to free Nelson Mandela and raising awareness of human rights violations globally.