SA Presidency announces Order of Ikhamanga recipients

Individuals who will receive tthe Order of Ikamanga in silver are Sipho “Hotstix” Mabuse, advocate Nakedi Ribane, Lillian Dube, Johan Botha (posthumous), John Koenakeefe Motlhankana (posthumous) and Thami Mnyele (posthumous).

Mabuse will be honoured for his contribution to the field of music and social cohesion. His spellbinding music, the Presidency said, had consistently captured the imagination of the nation.

Botha will be posthumously awarded for his excellent contribution to opera music and putting South Africa on the world stage. “He courageously entertained multitudes and sang for good causes even at a time when his health was weakening,” the Presidency said.

It said the late Motlhankana would be acknowledged for his support in ther arts. “His works remain an inspiration to many budding and established artists”.

About Mnyele, who died in 1945, the Presidency said: "His excellent use of art and cultural activism to confront injustice remain a living legacy and witness that oppression does not diminish one’s talent”.

Ribane will be recognised for her contribution to the performing arts and literature. “She has been a consistent advocate for equity and justice in the arts,” the Presidency said.

Other individuals who will be honoured include Traci Mackie (journalism), Elsa Meyer (athletics) and Hashim Mohammed Amla (cricket). Mackie and Meyer will be bestowed with the Order of Ikamanga in bronze while Amla will be honoured in silver.