eThekwini Municipality faces backlash over R22 million statues of Mandela and Tambo

The eThekwini municipality's move to erect two statues in prominent locations in the city is turning into a towering debate over whether it was the prudent use of municipal funds.

However, the municipality has dug in their heels and countered that the bronze statues of Nelson Mandela and Oliver Tambo, costing R22 million, had multi-faceted significance for the city, its people, as well as tourists.

The city holds that the 9-metre high structures were part of national government’s broader programme to transform the country’s heritage landscape, reflect the diverse history of its people, and promote local tourism.

An official unveiling date for the statues that stand nine metres high was anticipated. Tambo’s statue is located on North Beach, while Mandela’s statue is positioned in the parking lot of Moses Mabhida Stadium, facing Kings Park Athletic Stadium; both statues are presently covered in plastic sheeting and fenced off from the public.

Mandela and Tambo were key figures in the ANC's evolution and history, with the former being the country's first democratically elected president in 1994.

The controversy surrounding the statues began when they were first passed in council in 2019, and again in October 2022, the municipality approved R1 million for their installation, which left opposition political parties fuming.

Initially, the statues were supposed to be placed outside Durban City Hall, but those plans were changed.

Recently, the DA’s eThekwini Mayoral Candidate, Haniff Hoosen, stated that the matter was reported to the Public Protector to investigate the decision to spend R22 million on statues while the city faces an uncontrollable water and sanitation crisis.

“The municipality redirected funds from purchasing fire engines and repairing water infrastructure at the Tongaat water works towards the building of these statues,” he said.

In previous municipal council reports, the municipality explained that eThekwini, one of the largest cities in South Africa, lacked memorials or significant statues honouring the contributions of both Tambo and Mandela.

It was also noted that South Africa's inherited heritage landscape was heavily skewed and not inclusive, as it aimed to preserve and celebrate the history and heritage of the white minority.

The municipality stated that most statues only depict the bravery and historical contributions of both colonists and apartheid architects.

Municipal spokesperson Gugu Sisilana recently revealed all plans were in place and will be announced to the public soon.