- 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 Dekoratie voor Trouwe Dienst
The Dekoratie voor Trouwe Dienst is a South African military decoration established in 1920 for Boer officers of the Second Boer War.
The South African Southern Cross Medal
The South African Southern Cross Medal is a military honor established in 1952 and granted for exceptional devotion to duty.
The South African Pro Merito Medal
The South African Pro Merito Medal was conferred upon the South African Defence Force in recognition of exceptional devotion to duty.
