David Green, CEO of Cape Town’s iconic V&A Waterfront and chair of the Zeitz MOCAA Museum, has been awarded an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in recognition of his outstanding efforts in strengthening ties between the UK and South Africa, Cape {town} Etc reports.
The prestigious honour was announced in King Charles III’s New Year honours list on 1 January.
Under Green’s leadership, the V&A Waterfront has evolved into one of Africa’s leading tourism destinations, drawing millions of visitors annually. The development, blending Cape Town’s rich heritage with modern innovations, has become a key economic pillar for the city. Additionally, the Zeitz MOCAA Museum has gained international acclaim as a cultural institution, showcasing African contemporary art to a global audience.
The V&A Waterfront highlighted Green’s pivotal role in cultivating strong cultural and economic links between the two nations. His work has not only helped shape Cape Town as a key player in the global tourism industry, but also underlined the potential for future UK-South Africa collaborations.
Shirley Zinn, chair of the V&A Waterfront board, expressed her admiration for Green’s leadership, describing his contribution to the growth of the Waterfront as transformative. ‘David’s unwavering commitment has turned the V&A Waterfront into a world-class attraction,’ she said. ‘This honour is a true reflection of his impact on Cape Town’s economy and global appeal.’
Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis echoed these sentiments, commending Green for helping to establish the Waterfront as one of Africa’s most exceptional public spaces. ‘David’s leadership represents a successful collaboration between the public and private sectors, and he’s played a crucial role in making Cape Town a top global city,’ Hill-Lewis said.
The British High Commissioner to South Africa, Antony Phillipson, also congratulated Green, noting the importance of people-to-people connections between the two countries. ‘David has significantly strengthened the relationship between South Africa and the UK, and his leadership at both the V&A Waterfront and Zeitz MOCAA Museum has been invaluable,’ said Phillipson.
In response to the honour, Green expressed his gratitude, crediting the teams at the V&A Waterfront and Zeitz MOCAA for their collective efforts. ‘I am deeply humbled by this recognition,’ he said. ‘Tourism plays an essential role in bridging nations, and I am proud to contribute to the strengthening of UK-South Africa relations. Cape Town’s success as a global destination is a shared achievement.’
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