SA musicians to receive National Orders from President Ramaphosa

The recipients will be awarded the Order of Ikhamanga, which recognises South African citizens for achievements in the arts, culture, literature, music, journalism and sport. Among those to be honoured are late jazz musician Johnny Dyani, flautist and composer Wouter Kellerman, and the late composer and journalist Todd Matshikiza.

Also recognised are late jazz saxophonist Kippie Moeketsi and artist and cultural activist Molefe Pheto. Recipients of the Order of Ikhamanga in Silver include singer and guitarist Jonathan Butler, the late jazz bassist Jonny Mbizo Dyani, kwaito producer and DJ Oskido, musician Benjamin John Peter Tyamzashe and jazz artist Samuel Mhangwani.

The Recording Industry of South Africa (RiSA) and the South African Music Awards congratulated the honourees ahead of the ceremony.

RiSA chief executive Nhlanhla Sibisi described the recipients as “architects of sound and spirit whose contributions continue to define the global relevance of South African music.

“These icons and pioneers have carried the story of our nation through rhythm, harmony and fearless creativity. Their work is not only artistic excellence, it is nation-building, cultural preservation and global influence,” Sibisi said.

He added that the recognition reaffirmed “that South African music is a vital part of our democratic journey and a living archive of our collective memory”.

Sibisi also said the recipients had opened opportunities for future generations of musicians.

“We honour these trailblazers not only for what they have achieved, but for the doors they have opened for generations of artists who continue to carry our sound to the world,” he said.

The National Orders are among South Africa’s highest official honours and are awarded to citizens who have made significant contributions in their respective fields.

Others include:

• Wouter Kellerman is recognised for his achievements as a flautist, composer and arranger, and his contribution to youth development through music education and community upliftment.
• Todd Matshikiza (Posthumous) is honoured for his work as a journalist, composer, pianist and educator, including his legacy in Drum Magazine and the musical King Kong.
• Jeremiah Kippie Morolong Moeketsi (Posthumous) is recognised for shaping South African jazz through innovation and internationally influential improvisation.
• Molefe Pheto (Posthumous) is honoured for his multidisciplinary artistic contribution and his role in cultural resistance through MDALI and Mihloti Black Theatre.

Order of Ikhamanga In Silver

• Jonathan Kenneth Butler is recognised for his global success as a jazz, R&B and gospel artist from Athlone, Cape Town.
• Jonny Mbizo Dyani (Posthumous) is honoured for his global jazz influence as a member of The Blue Notes and his contribution to musical resistance in exile.
• Oscar “Oskido” Mdlongwa is recognised for pioneering kwaito and creating platforms for emerging artists in South African music.
• Benjamin John Peter Tyamzashe (Posthumous) is honoured for his contribution to cultural heritage and nation-building through music.
• Samuel Mhangwani is recognised for his contribution to jazz, cultural diplomacy and music’s role in social cohesion and resistance.

Contributors: Nomfundo Radebe and Mndeni Mahlangu