Media Statement

20 January 2020

Deadline for Ubuntu Awards 2020 nominations

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) is scheduled to host the 2020 edition of the annual Ubuntu Awards in Cape Town on Saturday, 15 February 2020, under the theme: “Celebrating Excellence in Diplomacy – Working Together to Build a Better Africa and a Better World”. The nominations period opened in December 2019 and closes today, 20 January 2020.

The purpose of the event is to recognise South African citizens for their distinguished service and contribution to promoting South Africa’s national interests and values across the world.

The event takes place traditionally after the opening of Parliament and brings together captains of industry, civil society leaders, members of Cabinet and other eminent persons in addition to Ambassadors and High Commissioners accredited to South Africa.

The awards are given to South African citizens who have raised the South African flag high on an international stage. Winners from previous years include the acclaimed music group Ladysmith Black Mambazo, legendary artist Ms Esther Mahlangu and Olympic stars Caster Semenya and Wayde van Niekerk.

The categories that will be recognised include: Ubuntu Economic Diplomacy Award, Ubuntu Social Responsibility Award, Ubuntu Arts and Cultural Diplomacy Award, Ubuntu Youth Diplomacy Award, Ubuntu Sports Diplomacy Award and the OR Tambo Lifetime Achievement Award.

Members of the public are invited to nominate suitable candidates by completing an entry form with the option of additional supporting material online. Nominations can be made on the following website: www.ubuntuawards2020.co.za.

ISSUED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION

OR Tambo Building
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