A Renewed Tradition of Civic Honors to Celebrate Exceptional Capetonians

Cape Town, a city rich in natural beauty, culture, and history, is home to exceptional individuals who have left a lasting impact on society through their talents, dedication, and service. In recognition of their achievements, Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis has revived the city’s Civic Honours tradition after a 12-year hiatus.

Honoring Exceptional Contributions to Society

This year’s honorees represent a blend of selflessness, artistic talent, and courageous activism. Among them are individuals who have made significant contributions to various fields, including law, sports, music, and literature.

• Albie Sachs, a lawyer, activist, and former Constitutional Court Justice, played a crucial role in shaping post-apartheid South Africa.
• Athol Fugard, a legendary playwright, has left a powerful impact with his works.
• Basil D’Oliveira, an innovative cricketer; Desiree Ellis, an accomplished soccer player and coach; and Langa’s Busy Bees Rugby Club, a symbol of community involvement and dedication, are being recognized for their contributions to sports.
• Brenda Fassie, the Queen of African Pop, and Jonathan Butler, the singer-songwriter and guitarist, are being honored for their contributions to the global music scene.
• Breyten Breytenbach, a former political prisoner and poet, and AG “Sailor” Malan, a World War II fighter pilot turned anti-apartheid activist, are being recognized for their contributions to fighting injustice.
• Dr. Imtiaz Sooliman, founder of Gift of the Givers, is being celebrated for his humanitarian work during natural disasters and humanitarian crises, both in South Africa and abroad.
• Bennie Rabinowitz, a social justice advocate and philanthropist, and Dr. Thabo Makgoba, Archbishop of Cape Town and proponent of social, education, and climate justice, are being recognized for their tireless work.
• Krotoa, a young interpreter and peace broker between the Khoi and the Dutch in the 17th century, is a symbol of the city’s rich and diverse history.

Mayor’s Medal Recipients

In addition to individual honorees, several recipients of the Mayor’s Medal have been announced for their exceptional dedication and sacrifice in service to their communities.

• The Friends of Mostert’s Mill,
• The Clothing Bank founders Tracey Chambers and Tracey Gilmore,
• Ladles of Love’s Danny Diliberto,
• The late Shaleen Surtie-Richards,
• The late Hank Lith of Claremont Arderne Gardens,
• Zoë Prinsloo of Save a Fishie,
• The Volunteer Wildfire Services, and
• State capture corruption buster Athol Williams.

The Official Ceremony

The ceremony to honor these extraordinary Cape Town residents is scheduled to take place in December. Their accomplishments, sacrifices, and dedication to making the world a better place deserve the highest recognition and praise. Mayor Hill-Lewis’ decision to revive the Civic Honours tradition is a step towards acknowledging and celebrating the exceptional individuals who have made the city proud.