His career spans over six decades and has been nothing short of illustrious. Legendary actor and playwright, Dr John Kani has received yet another distinguished honour by being made an honorary Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (OBE) in recognition of his services to drama. Born in New Brighton, Gqeberha, Dr Kani's career flourished from the mid 1970's.

WELL-DESERVED

He is no stranger to accolades, Dr Kani was previously awarded an honorary doctorate by the University of Cape Town. The Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University also appointed him an honorary Doctor of Philosophy in 2013. After that, he received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the South African Film and Television Awards. The announcement of the OBE was made by the British High Commission in Tshwane. British diplomat, Antony Phillipson, said the award was an extremely well-deserved accolade for Dr Kani's "illustrious 60-year-long career as an actor, author, director and playwright." This award can only be granted exclusively by the king to exceptional citizens and non-citizens in various fields. 

AN HONOUR

An OBE is a British chivalric and recognises him for making great strides and an impact in his line of work. Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Zizi Kodwa congratulated Dr Kani. "This latest acclaim is a testament to the immeasurable legacy Dr Kani has made to theatre around the world. 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," Kodwa said. "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," Kodwa added.