Cabinet has congratulated Small Business Development Minister Lindiwe Zulu after she was honoured by the Brazilian government.
Earlier this month, the Brazilian government bestowed Zulu with the highest level of the Order of Rio Branco (Ordem de Rio Branco) and the Grand Cross, in recognition of her service and achievement in the diplomatic service.
“This is in recognition for the Minister’s continuous efforts to enhance bilateral relations between Brazil and South Africa,” Communications Minister Nomvula Mokonyane said during a post Cabinet media briefing on Thursday in Tshwane.
Mokonyane said this honorific order of Brazil is granted to those who have distinguished themselves in acts of meritorious service and civic virtues.
Zulu served as South African ambassador to Brazil between 2004 and 2008.
She received the order from Brazil’s ambassador to South Africa, Nedilson Jorge, on 7 September in Waterkloof, Pretoria, as that country celebrated Brazil National Day.
“The Order of Rio Branco is awarded annually to Brazilian and foreign nationals for service and achievement in diplomatic service, government and civil fields,” the Department of Small Business Development said in a statement. – SAnews.gov.za
