The Order comprises four elements; the neck badge, a miniature medallion to be worn as a brooch, a lapel rosette and a wooden ceremonial staff incorporating an entwined majola or mole snake.

These symbols represent support and commitment, particularly the majola, which signifies friendship, protection and active support in African mythology. Also depicted is the universal yin and yang symbol, which conveys a meeting point for diverse spiritual energies, a notion Tambo was tremendously passionate about.

The obverse depicts the national coat of arms, year of issue, ‘2017’ and ‘South Africa’ written in both English and Xitsonga.