Senior government officials attended the official handover ceremony at the British High Commissioner's residence in Tshwane.
World-renowned actor Dr John Kani has been formally awarded the Order of the British Empire (OBE) by the British High Commissioner to South Africa, Antony Philipson.
Late last year it was announced that the 80-year-old actor had been awarded the Order of the British Empire by King Charles III for his services to drama and theatre.
Senior government officials attended the official handover ceremony at the British High Commissioner's residence in Tshwane on Tuesday evening.
“Minister Gayton McKenzie, it's almost too late to say this, but you're here now. Welcome to this constituency. I remember when Palo Jordan was appointed Minister of Arts and Culture, he said our constituency was polarised,” Kani joked in his acceptance speech.
Minister for Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie, who had just returned from the Paris Olympics, was also in attendance.
“Bula Kani, as you are known in the streets, today I want to thank you for your presence in keeping so many people out of prison thanks to your introduction to art. I also want to thank you for the many times you have risked your life to keep other people out of prison. You are a great man,” the minister said.
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VIPs pay their respects
The historic event was attended by people respected and admired in their respective capacities, from Dr Ismail Mahomed, recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 14th kykNET Fiesta Awards, to well-known Kenyan businesswoman Gina Din and literary maestro Zakes Muda.
“I am delighted to be in South Africa to celebrate with the British High Commissioner to South Africa, John Kani OBE. A brilliant storyteller, respected actor and courageous social activist against apartheid, his work continues to inspire and empower people today,” Ding wrote on social media.
African brand expert Thebe Ikalafeng was touched by what McKenzie said in his address to Kani.
“he [Kani] “It is one of our greatest treasures and represents the best era of the 50s to 80s, when great South Africans used their skills to make South Africa and Africa better globally. I am not exaggerating when I say that the new Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, gave one of the best impromptu tributes I have ever seen from any politician,” Ikalafeng declared.
When it was announced last year that Kani had been made an OBE, Phillipson praised the actor.
“For nearly 60 years he has been one of South Africa’s best-known actors, authors, directors and scriptwriters. Black Panther I had the opportunity to see his incredible production of Kunene and the King in Pretoria a few months ago, but he has performed on stage and screen all over the world, inspiring and empowering millions through his work.”
Kani got his big break in 1975 when he starred in an anti-apartheid play. Sizwe Banzi is deadHe co-wrote it.
“I really pinch myself. When something like this happens I think, OK, this is real. I don't take these acts and honors lightly. I'm honored, I'm humbled and I'm very, very proud,” Kani said in an interview.
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