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If you've passed Durban’s North Beach promenade or Moses Mabhida Stadium over the past few months, you can’t help but notice two mummified-looking items. Well, these are actually two towering bronze statues commemorating struggle icons Nelson Mandela and Oliver Tambo.
Each statue stands nine metres high and cost R11 million, with the city confirming that the R22 million project was budgeted for in previous financial years.
The good news is that the long wait is almost over because eThekwini Mayor Cyril Xaba has announced their official reveal will take place next month, overseen by President Cyril Ramaphosa.
Commemorating icons
Two weeks after his release from prison in 1990, Nelson Mandela addressed his first Durban rally at Kings Park, delivering words that helped shape South Africa’s democratic trajectory. Placing his statue along the beachfront serves as both a reminder of that historic moment and a powerful symbol for locals and visitors alike.
Meanwhile, Oliver Tambo’s enduring legacy as ANC president-in-exile is being honoured in a city that played a pivotal role in the liberation struggle.
Even wrapped, the statues have already become selfie hotspots, drawing curious locals and tourists eager to glimpse the new additions and learn more about the leaders they represent.
Make it a KZN statue safari
If you’re feeling inspired, KwaZulu-Natal is packed with striking sculptures and statues that blend history, art and storytelling. Here are a few worth adding to your road trip list:
- Nelson Mandela Capture Site: This world-renowned installation near Howick features a 9.5-metre-tall sculpture made from 50 steel columns. From a specific vantage point, the columns align to form Mandela’s face, marking the spot where he was arrested in 1962. It’s powerful, immersive and unforgettable.
- Mahatma Gandhi Statue: Located on Church Street in Pietermaritzburg, this statue commemorates the 1893 train incident that became a turning point in Gandhi’s life and global history.
- King Dinuzulu Statue: Standing at the intersection of Berea Road and Warwick Avenue, this statue honours King Dinuzulu, the last officially recognised Zulu king.
- King Shaka Statue: A commanding figure welcomes visitors to Durban at King Shaka International Airport, celebrating the legendary Zulu king.
- John Dube Statue: Located at the historic Ohlange Institute, this statue honours John Dube, the first president of the ANC and a towering figure in South African education and politics.
- Dick King Statue: Near the Durban beachfront, this monument commemorates Dick King’s legendary 1842 horseback ride to Grahamstown.
Keep an eye out for the latest statue unveiling that brings art and history to life!
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