Medals Database > By Country > South Africa

The Order of Mapungubwe

Time Period: Post-WW2
Institution: 6 December 2002
Country: South Africa

The Order of the Mapungubwe is a prestigious South African civilian accolade order established in 2002. It honors South African citizens whose accomplishments resonate on an international scale and contribute to the advancement of South Africa’s interests.

Regarded as South Africa’s most esteemed honor, the order derives its name from the ancient civilization of Mapungubwe, situated in present-day South Africa. Established on December 6, 2002, its inaugural recipient in the highest class was the esteemed former president, Nelson Mandela.

The order (which originally had three classes) was enlarged to four in 2004. These are:

Platinum (OMP), for exceptional and unique achievements;
Gold (OMG), for exceptional achievements;
Silver (OMS), for excellent achievements; and
Bronze (OMB), for outstanding achievements.

The Order of Mapungubwe Design

The insignia of the order consists of a horizontal oval positioned above an inverted trapezium. Within the oval frame, a golden rhinoceros is depicted against the backdrop of the sun rising above Mapungubwe Hill. The convex upper edge of the trapezium features a decorative beadwork pattern, while the sides are adorned with sceptres.

At the center is an intricate crucible from which molten gold cascades down into a red furnace. On the reverse side, the South African coat of arms is prominently featured.

The ribbon, worn around the neck, is crafted in gold and embellished with a line of cream-colored bead-like dots along each edge. In the center, recurring cream-colored rhinoceros silhouettes add a distinctive touch to the design. All four classes of the order are worn in this manner