- Time Period: Post-WW2
- Institution: 30 November 2003
- Country: South Africa
The Order of the Ikhamanga (abbreviated as OIG/OIS/OIB) is a South African order established in 2003 to recognize and honor outstanding achievements in the fields of arts, culture, literature, music, journalism, and sport.
Named after the Xhosa word for the strelitzia flower, a symbol of endurance and resilience, the order celebrates individuals who have made significant contributions to the enrichment and advancement of South African society through their talent, creativity, and dedication.
The order has three classes:
- Gold (OIG), for exceptional achievement,
- Silver (OIS), for excellent achievement,
- Bronze (OIB), for outstanding achievement.
The Order of Ikhamanga Design
The oval-shaped emblem features various symbolic elements, including a rising sun, a “Lydenburg head”, two strelitzia flowers, a drum, three circles, and two roadways. Each of these elements carries significance: the head symbolizes the arts, the sun represents glory, the circles signify sport, and the roads symbolize the journey towards excellence. The reverse side of the badge displays the South African coat of arms.
The ribbon, worn around the neck, is adorned with a golden hue and is embellished with four cream-colored lines along each edge. In the center, a recurring pattern of stylized dancing figures adds a dynamic touch to the design.
Designed by Charles Peter Gareth Smart, a graphic designer based in Pretoria, South Africa, the Order of Ikhamanga embodies the nation’s cultural richness and celebrates excellence across various fields of endeavor.
More South African Orders
The South African Honoris Crux Medal
The South African Honoris Crux Medal was a military honor established by the Union of South Africa in 1952. It remained in use until 1975.
The John Chard Decoration
The John Chard Decoration was a military accolade for long service, established by the Union of South Africa on April 6, 1952.
The Louw Wepener Decoration
The Louw Wepener Decoration is a military honor established by the Union of South Africa in 1952 to recognize acts of remarkable bravery.
The Woltemade Decoration for Bravery
The Woltemade Decoration for Bravery is a South African civil decoration for acts of bravery and was discontinued in 1961.
