Department of Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Mr Zizi Kodwa congratulates legendary actor and playwright Dr John Kani on yet another distinguished honour. Dr Kani has been made an honorary Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (OBE) in recognition for his services to drama.
An OBE is a British chivalric order which recognises one for making great impact in their line of work.
In a career spanning 60 years, Dr Kani has received great acclaim for his work in theatre, film, and television. Dr Kani’s legacy extends beyond South Africa’s borders, having made his mark in Hollywood, and particularly in British theatre.
In 2016, Dr Kani received the national honour of the Order of Ikhamanga Silver for his excellent contributions to theatre through this struggle for a non-racial, non-sexist, and democratic South Africa.
In August 2023, on his 80th birthday, Dr Kani was acclaimed in the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture’s Van Toeka Af Living Legends Recognition series.
Minister Kodwa says, “I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Dr John Bonisile Kani for being made an honorary Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire. This latest acclaim is a testament to the immeasurable legacy Dr Kani has made to theatre around the world.”
Minister Kodwa adds, “Dr Kani has directed and performed in productions that will live long in our consciousness. The likes of Sizwe Banzi Is Dead, Kunene and the King¸ Nothing But the Truth, Hayani, and many other productions by Dr Kani, continue to be performed decades after they were first seen on stage.”
Minister Kodwa further states, “What gives me joy is to see an artist who has contributed so much to South Africa and on theatre stages around the world, receive their flowers while they can still smell them. Dr Kani deserves all the acclaim he continues to receive. He is a treasure and a titan of South Africa.”
Media enquiries:
Litha Mpondwana
Email: LithaM@dsac.gov.za
Cell: 064 802 3003
Zimasa Velaphi
Email: ZimasaV@dsac.gov.za
Cell: 072 172 8925
