African kings, queens, princes and princesses gather to honour Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela – 5 November 2009

In a gathering blessed by the gods, royalty from across the world, African kings and queens, princes and princesses took centre stage at the inaugural African Royalty Award ceremony held in Freedom Park. The awards – which are set to become an annual event – recognise achievers in various fields such as science and technology, dance, music, poetry and politics, each of which will be especially recommended by the royalty. The first recipient was South African former president, Dr Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela. Mandela’s contribution to world peace secured him the coveted prize. “Mandela is the iconic figure for reconciliation and forgiveness,” said Zolani Mkiva, Chairman of the Makhonya Trust.

Royalty from as far afield as Korea, Ghana, Togo, Lesotho, Botswana, Morocco, Germany, Libya, the Western Cape, Eastern Cape and Northern Cape, Kenya and Uganda, congratulated Madiba and thanked him for his immense and immeasurable contribution to the struggle for the disenfranchised in South Africa and the rest of the world.

Guests included some of South africa’s crème de la crème including President Jacob Zuma, who gave a speech, Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, Chief Mangosuthu Buthelezi, Thembu Prince Mandla Mandela, Contralesa President King Patekile Holomisa, Tshwane Premier Gwen Ramokgopa and many more guests.

The event was preceded by launch of the Institute of African Royalty two days earlier.