“Finally, SA is celebrating and giving me this high award of Ikhamanga — the biggest award ever. I am so grateful,” said Malope.
They pay homage to people who contributed towards building a nonracial, non-sexist, democratic and prosperous country. While the pandemic was still very much with us, Ramaphosa said, it was important to recognise the important duty to honour those who have made outstanding contributions towards the betterment of the country and human condition.
“Regardless of the spheres of life in which they applied themselves, the recipients have honoured and upheld the values, which when put together, represent the highest ideals of humanity.” “It’s amazing, I think this is the award that I have been waiting for. I have received so many awards all over and Africa has been celebrating me like crazy. I feel loved right now.”
Sibongiseni Shabalala and his elder brother, Nkosinathi, received the award on behalf of their late father Dr Joseph Shabalala, who founded the Grammy-winning isicathamiya group Ladysmith Black Mambazo.