# The 2026 National Orders Awards have recognised South Africans making an impact globally in science, arts and sport. President Cyril Ramaphosa awarded the Order of Mapungubwe Gold to Professor Salim Abdool Karim for his contribution to medical science and HIV/AIDS research and Professor Tulio de Oliveira for scientific research and identifying the Omicron Covid-19 variant. The Order of Ikhamanga recognised Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus, musician Oscar Mdlongwa known as Oskido, and Grammy-winning flautist Wouter Kellerman among others for outstanding contributions to arts, culture, music, advocacy and sport.
National Orders celebrate South African excellence