Order of the Companions of O.R. Tambo: History, Classes and Recipients

What is the Order of the Companions of O.R. Tambo?

The Order of the Companions of O.R. Tambo is the South African National Order reserved for eminent foreign nationals. It recognises friendship shown to South Africa and contributions involving peace, cooperation, international solidarity and support. ^[1][3]

The Presidency describes the Order as part of South Africa’s international and multilateral relations. Unlike the Orders that principally recognise South African citizens, this Order is designed to honour people from outside the country whose actions have supported South Africa or its people. ^[1]

Why the Order is named after O.R. Tambo

The Order is named after Oliver Reginald Tambo, who led the African National Congress internationally during much of the anti-apartheid struggle. The Presidency’s account emphasises his role in building international opposition to apartheid and his concern for South African liberation activists in exile. ^[1]

The symbolism of the Order is therefore centred on friendship, protection, solidarity and relationships across borders. The main badge incorporates the majola, or mole snake, which the Presidency uses as a symbol of benevolent protection and active support. ^[1]

The three classes and ceremonial staff

The Order is conferred in gold, silver and bronze. Gold is the Supreme Companion of O.R. Tambo, silver the Grand Companion and bronze the Companion. ^[1]

An award consists of a neck badge, miniature, lapel rosette and a wooden ceremonial staff incorporating an entwined mole snake. The Presidency states that the staff symbolises both appreciation for the recipient’s support and a reciprocal commitment to stand by the recipient. ^[1]

Gold recognises excellent cooperation and active solidarity in promoting South Africa’s interests and aspirations. Silver recognises outstanding cooperation, solidarity and support, while bronze recognises cooperation, solidarity and support more generally. ^[1]

Recent recipients

In the 2026 National Orders announcement, the Order of the Companions of O.R. Tambo in Silver was assigned to a group of foreign recipients including Teresa Hillary Clarke of the United States, Pierre Magnee of the Netherlands, Antonio da Silva Gomes Cordeiro of Mozambique, Professor Cherif Keita of Mali and Naomi Kleinfeld of the Netherlands. ^[4]

The official citations described work ranging from education, human rights and investment promotion to support for anti-apartheid activists and preservation of South African historical memory. The examples illustrate the Order’s emphasis on sustained relationships between South Africa and people abroad. ^[4]

How nominations work

Foreign nationals may be nominated through the same National Orders process in which the public submits motivations and evidence of exceptional service or achievement. The Advisory Council on National Orders processes nominations and advises the President. ^[3][5]

The President is the fount of honour and formally bestows the National Orders. This makes the Order of the Companions of O.R. Tambo both a state honour and a diplomatic expression of South Africa’s recognition of international friendship. ^[2][1]