- Time Period: Post-WW2
- Institution: 1973
- Country: South Africa
The Order of Good Hope, also known as the Order of the Cape of Good Hope, is an inactive order of merit originating from the Republic of South Africa. Founded in 1973 by the South African government of that time, its purpose was to recognize individuals who had made significant contributions to fostering international relations and raising awareness about South Africa’s interests. However, the order was abolished in 2002.
The Order of Good Hope was bestowed upon foreign citizens, and between 1980 and 1988, it was briefly extended to South Africans as well, primarily for their efforts in promoting international relations during a time when South Africa was increasingly isolated due to its apartheid policies.
The Order of Hope Classes
Originally, the order was divided into five classes:
- Grand Collar – Exclusively for heads of state.
- Grand Cross – Reserved for heads of government, ministers of state, judges, presidents of legislatures, secretaries of state, ambassadors, commanders-in-chief, and others.
- Grand Officer – Intended for legislators, envoys, senior military officers, and similar roles.
- Commander – Designated for chargés d’affaires, consuls-general, colonels, and comparable positions.
- Officer – Awarded to consuls, lower-ranking military officers, and others.
The order underwent reorganization in 1988, resulting in the following structure:
- Grand Cross – Recognizing excellent meritorious service, primarily for heads of state, and on special occasions, heads of government.
- Grand Officer – Reserved for outstanding meritorious service, encompassing heads of government, ministers of state, judges, presidents of legislatures, secretaries of state, ambassadors, commanders-in-chief, and others.
- Commander – Acknowledging exceptionally meritorious service by legislators, envoys, senior military officers, and similar roles.
- Officer – Commending meritorious service performed by chargés d’affaires, consuls-general, colonels, and comparable positions.
- Member – Honoring exceptional service rendered by consuls, lower-ranking military officers, and others.
The Order of Hope Design
President Nelson Mandela had expressed his intent to reform the Order, as the newly established South African government viewed it as a relic of apartheid. One key concern was that the order’s insignia was deemed too European in design, featuring rays, colors, an anchor, and a Latin motto. Additionally, the cost of the insignia for each initiate amounted to approximately 11,000 rand. Consequently, the Order of the Companions of O. R. Tambo was established in its stead.
