President Cyril Ramaphosa has honoured South African music legend Oscar “Oskido” Mdlongwa with the Order of Ikhamanga in Silver, one of the country’s highest civilian honours, in recognition of his contribution to the music industry and his role in creating opportunities for young musicians.
The award was presented during the National Orders Investiture Ceremony held at the Sefako Makgatho Presidential Guesthouse in Pretoria on 19 May 2026. Oskido was recognised for creating opportunities for young musicians as an extension of his own success as a DJ, record producer, entrepreneur and kwaito pioneer.
The Order of Ikhamanga is awarded to South African citizens who have excelled in arts, culture, literature, music, journalism and sport. The honour was established in 2003 and is presented by the President of South Africa. It is awarded in three categories: Gold for exceptional achievement, Silver for excellent achievement and Bronze for outstanding achievement. The order takes its name from the ikhamanga flower, also known as the bird-of-paradise flower, which symbolises creativity and achievement.
Oskido, widely recognised as one of the pioneers of kwaito music, has spent decades shaping the South African music industry. Beyond his work as a DJ and producer, he became known for mentoring and opening doors for upcoming artists through his label, Kalawa Jazmee Records. Over the years, the label helped launch and support several successful careers in local music.
Following the announcement, Oskido took to social media to celebrate the honour and acknowledge the people who contributed to his journey.
“Deeply grateful to President Ramaphosa and the Presidency for this honour, the Order of Ikhamanga. But I receive this on behalf of all of us. My family, Kalawa Jazmee, DJs United, every pioneer, every creative, every believer. We lift each other and God opens the doors. This is only the beginning,” he wrote.
Alongside the message, Oskido shared video clips featuring some of the artists he mentored and supported throughout their careers, including Black Coffee, DJ Zinhle and Shimza. The artists reflected on the role he played in helping them enter and grow within the industry.
The recognition adds Oskido’s name to a list of South Africans who have received the Order of Ikhamanga for their contribution to the country’s cultural and creative landscape.
