Isithwalandwe
Isithwalandwe/Seaparankoe is the highest honour awarded by the ANC to those who have made an outstanding contribution and sacrifice to the liberation struggle. Isithwalandwe, literally translated, means "the one who wears the plumes of the rare bird" and was traditionally bestowed only on the bravest warriors of the people, on those who distinguished themselves in the eyes of all the people for exceptional qualities of leadership and heroism.
Chief Albert Luthuli, Dr Yusuf Dadoo and Father Trevor Huddleston were the first leaders to received Isithwalandwe / Seaparankoe, at the Congress of the People in 1955. The most recent recipient, in 2004, was Ray Simons Alexander.
Annual Achievement Awards
The Annual Achievement Awards are presented to the best performing ANC branch, Women's League branch, Youth League branch and group of ANC local councillors. The awards were initiated in 2000 to promote a greater focus on the organisational task of building branches, strengthening local government and building the leagues. The awards aim to highlight the features of strong branches and councils and to reward best practice within the movement.
The awards are named for outstanding cadres of the ANC, whose individual qualities of commitment and selflessness are an example to every ANC member. During their lives, each of these people made an immeasurable contribution to the struggle for freedom and a better life.
The following awards are made:
- Sol Plaatje Award for the best performing ANC branch
- Charlotte Maxeke Award for the best ANC Women's League branch
- Anton Lembede Award for the best ANC Youth League branch
- ZK Matthews Award for the best performing group of ANC councillors
Branch and groups of councillors who wish to enter the competition must submit a completed Nomination Form to the relevant ANC Provincial Secretary by 31 October.
The award winnners are announced by the ANC President at the ANC's annual January 8th celebrations.