Unveiling of new statues sparks controversy among residents
Some residents are questioning the cost and importance of these statues.
Durban is officially getting two new massive landmarks, but the R22 million price tag is already causing a stir among locals.
After months of construction, the nine-metre bronze statues of anti-apartheid icons Nelson Mandela and Oliver Tambo are ready for their big reveal at the Moses Mabhida Stadium precinct and North Beach, respectively.
Mayor Cyril Xaba defended the cost, confirming that the R11 million spent on each statue was fully budgeted for.
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According to Xaba, each statue celebrates the extraordinary contributions these leaders made to the country’s journey to freedom.
The reasoning behind the statues is to boost tourism in Durban.
Durban’s Mandela, Tambo statues set for official unveilinghttps://t.co/EKMwi2hyDE pic.twitter.com/WRjX7wIJfV
— ECR_Newswatch (@ECR_Newswatch) February 23, 2026
However, not everyone in eThekwini is happy about the statues.
Breakfast with Martin Bester spoke about the controversial statues, saying they understand how there could be controversy.
With President Cyril Ramaphosa expected to attend the ceremony, residents and community groups are questioning whether the money could have been better spent on fixing the city’s basic services.
"A nine-metre-long bronze statue is not what’s going to bring tourism to Durban. Let's make that clear. What will bring tourism to Durban is the following: safety and security for beachgoers, including joggers and walkers; cleaning up the entire beachfront, including the removal of makeshift structures and cutting down unwanted bush, which is harbouring criminals. Let’s try to get the basics right first before we get ahead of ourselves," one anonymous resident told Berea Mail.
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The frustration is clear on the ground, with another North Beach local suggesting a more realistic tour for the President: "While the President is here, can we invite him on a tour of the top 2026 tourist destinations? On the itinerary will be Carpendale Park, the dunes and the Covid-19 shelter."
Despite the backlash, the City maintains that no service delivery funds were used to pay for the project.
Mayor Xaba remains confident that the statues are a win for the city’s image, stating: "Together, these tourism attractions will enhance the visitor experience in our city. Even before their official unveiling, the statues, procured at R11 million each, are already generating excitement among local and international visitors alike."
He says the money was set aside in previous budgets, so it will not affect current service delivery.
The statues are set to be unveiled next Friday.
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