Honouring service. Building a better South Africa.
National Orders
The National Orders are South Africa's highest awards conferred by the President to honour outstanding service and exceptional achievement.
The National Orders recognise South Africans and foreign nationals who have made an exceptional contribution to the country and its people. Explore the different orders below to learn more about their purpose and recipient criteria.
The national orders
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Order of Mapungubwe
Awarded for exceptional achievement and outstanding service to the Republic of South Africa.
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Order of the Baobab
Awarded for distinguished service to the people of South Africa in the fields of business, the economy, science, medicine, culture and the arts.
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Order of Luthuli
Awarded for outstanding contribution to the struggle for democracy, human rights, nation-building and the promotion of peace.
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Order of Ikhamanga
Awarded for exceptional contribution to the development and promotion of South Africa's arts, culture, language, heritage and creative expression.
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Order of Mendi
Awarded for bravery, self-sacrifice and exceptional service, particularly in times of conflict.
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Order of the Companions of O.R. Tambo
Awarded to heads of state and other eminent foreign nationals for their exceptional friendship and support for South Africa.