Durban banks on R22mln heritage investment to attract more visitors

In efforts to boost tourism, the eThekwini Municipality will unveil two 9-metre-long bronze statues of major apartheid struggle icons Nelson Mandela and Oliver Tambo next month. The statues which cost the City R11 million each, form part of the City’s broader strategy to expand tourism infrastructure, strengthen heritage tourism, and encourage visitors to extend their stay in Durban. Mayor Cyril Xaba said the investment is aimed at enhancing the city’s tourism offering while contributing to local economic growth.

He announced on Sunday that the unveiling ceremony will be led by President Cyril Ramaphosa. Xaba said during the recent festive season, Durban attracted more than 1.2 million visitors, contributing close to R9 billion to the GDP. The City believes that expanded attractions will increase visitor numbers and boost spending in the local economy.

Among the major investments announced is a R1 billion development for the new Durban Fun World, unveiled in December, which will be transformed into a world-class amusement and family entertainment park. He said this, together with the unveiling of the statues, will enhance the overall visitor experience. “The Mandela and Tambo statues, procured at R11 million each, have already generated significant interest among local and international visitors ahead of their official unveiling.

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The City views this as evidence of their cultural importance and economic potential.” Last year, North Beach residents expressed their distress regarding the towering statue of Tambo, located along O.R. Tambo Parade (formerly Snell Parade) on the beachfront. It is currently covered pending official unveiling.

Residents commented that the erection of statues is a waste of funds when there are people who are starving, and the homeless are without shelters. According to Xaba, beyond tourism value, the statues are also intended to reflect Durban’s historical significance in South Africa’s liberation struggle.

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