South Africa bestowed National Orders on its citizens and eminent foreign nationals who have contributed towards the advancement of democracy and have made a significant impact on improving the lives of South Africans. The highest awards were given out during an annual event hosted by President Cyril Ramaphosa in Pretoria on Friday.
Ebrahim Ismail Ebrahim, a South African Indian-origin citizen who passed away in December 2019, was among the recipients. Ebrahim served time as a political prisoner on Robben Island alongside Nelson Mandela and Ahmed Kathrada. He inspired many with his undiluted moral values and lifelong commitment to the liberation of all South Africans. His late-autobiography, Beyond Fear – Reflections of a Freedom Fighter, is a reflection of his journey.
Dr Aboubaker Ebrahim Dangor, another South African Indian-origin citizen, was awarded the Order of Luthuli in Silver for his distinguished contribution to the field of science through his ground-breaking research in physics. Dangor has been based in the UK since he went there to continue his studies after getting his first Honours degree at Wits University in 1961.
The National Orders also recognise the contributions made by individuals towards building a non-racial, non-sexist, democratic and prosperous South Africa as envisaged in the country’s Constitution.
