Indian-Origin Scientists Honoured as Professor Salim Abdool Karim and Professor Keertan Dheda received South Africa’s highest civilian honour, the Order of Mapungubwe, on 20 May 2026 in Pretoria. The award was presented by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa during a formal ceremony for their outstanding contribution to medical science and public health.

Order of Mapungubwe Award

The Order of Mapungubwe is South Africa’s highest civilian honour. It is given to citizens who have shown excellence and exceptional achievement in different fields. The award recognises people whose work benefits South Africa as well as the global community.

The honour has different classes, including Gold and Silver, based on the level of achievement and service.

Salim Abdool Karim Receives Gold Honour

Professor Salim Abdool Karim received the Order of Mapungubwe in Gold for his important work in medical science and public health. His research mainly focused on HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis epidemiology.

He also played a major leadership role during the COVID-19 pandemic. Professor Karim serves as the Director of CAPRISA, which stands for the Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa. He is also a professor at the University of KwaZulu-Natal.

Keertan Dheda Awarded Silver Class

Professor Keertan Dheda received the Order of Mapungubwe in Silver for his research work in pulmonology. His studies focused on tuberculosis and drug-resistant respiratory infections.

His research has helped improve clinical treatment and public health management related to respiratory diseases.

Indian-Origin Scientists Honoured: Importance of the Honour

The Order of Mapungubwe is named after the ancient Kingdom of Mapungubwe in southern Africa. The historic site is also recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

South Africa’s national honours are officially conferred by the President of South Africa to recognise people who make exceptional contributions in their fields.