History

This Order was conferred upon foreign heads of government, ministers of state, judges, presidents of legislatures, secretaries of state, ambassadors and commanders-in-chief for the promotion of international relations and interests of South Africa. From 1980 to 1988, this Order was also awarded to South African citizens.

It was reorganized in 1988 with the discontinuance of the Grand Collar (1978 - 1988), the institution of the Member (1988), and the reassignment of the Grand Officer to award outstanding meritorious service to heads of government, ministers of state, judges, presidents of legislatures, secretaries of state, ambassadors, and commanders-in-chief. This Order was discontinued in 2002 and replaced by the Order of the Companions of O.R. Tambo.

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