Awarded for contributions to peace and understanding.
In 2001, Miriam Makeba was awarded the Otto Hahn Peace Medal in Gold by the United Nations Association of Germany. This accolade recognized her lifelong contributions to promoting peace and international understanding through her work as a musician and as a civil rights activist. Known for her deep commitment to social justice and opposition to apartheid, Makeba utilized her international platform to confront injustices and advocate for change. The Otto Hahn Medal reinforced her legacy as more than a musician—she was a dedicated humanitarian whose impact resonated far beyond music, inspiring future generations to use their voices for advocacy and action.