Cyril Ramaphosa to unveil R22 million Mandela and Tambo statues in Durban

Veiled statues of Nelson Mandela and Oliver Tambo

President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to officially unveil two bronze statues honouring anti-apartheid icons Nelson Mandela and Oliver Tambo in Durban today, in a project valued at R22 million.

Commissioned by the eThekwini Municipality, the installation forms part of efforts to celebrate the country’s liberation heritage while strengthening Durban’s tourism appeal.

The statue of Mandela will be placed at the Moses Mabhida Stadium precinct, while Tambo’s likeness will stand along the city’s beachfront promenade.

Municipal officials say the initiative seeks to preserve the legacy of two leaders widely regarded as central figures in South Africa’s struggle for freedom.

By situating the statues in high-traffic public spaces, the city hopes to create new heritage landmarks that attract both local and international visitors.

However, the R22 million price tag has triggered debate among members of the public, with some questioning the timing and cost of the project amid ongoing service delivery challenges.

Supporters argue that investing in historical commemoration and tourism infrastructure carries long-term cultural and economic value.