Order of Mapungubwe: South Africa’s Highest Honour for Exceptional Achievement
Officially instituted on 6 December 2002, the Order of Mapungubwe was created to reward South African citizens for exceptional achievements that have had a global impact. The award is inspired by the Kingdom of Mapungubwe—a powerful and advanced African civilization that thrived between the 11th and 13th centuries. This ancient kingdom was known for its gold craftsmanship, international trade, and sophisticated leadership.