Which South African honor did Nelson Mandela become the first recipient of in 2002?

Nelson Mandela became the first recipient of South Africa’s Order of Mapungubwe in 2002.

The Order of Mapungubwe is one of South Africa’s national orders. It recognizes achievement and excellence in international relations and the advancement of South African interests. Mandela received the award in the highest class, Platinum, in recognition of his exceptional contribution to democracy, human rights, nation-building, and reconciliation.

The order is named after Mapungubwe, an ancient kingdom and archaeological site in Limpopo Province. Mapungubwe flourished around the confluence of the Limpopo and Shashe rivers between the eleventh and thirteenth centuries. Its historical importance influenced the choice of the name for a modern national honor.

The Order of Mapungubwe is easy to confuse with the Order of Luthuli, another South African national order. The Order of Luthuli honors contributions to democracy, human rights, and justice, while the Order of Mapungubwe has a distinct emphasis on international achievement and advancing South Africa’s interests.