EThekwini in a bid to create a Safer City for All

 

The vision of eThekwini being among the safest cities in the world could soon be realised as the City became one of 10 pilot cities to activate the Integrated Safer Cities Project, which aims to use technological interventions to fight crime. 

Deputy Minister of Police, Mr. Cassel Mathale together with KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport, Community Safety and Liaison Mr. Bheki Ntuli and Ethekwini Municipality Mayor Cllr Mxolisi Kaunda during the launch of Integrated Safer Cities Project launch.

The Integrated Safer Cities Project was launched by Deputy Minister of Police, Mr. Cassel Mathale together with KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport, Community Safety and Liason Mr Bheki Ntuli, eThekwini Municipality Mayor, Cllr Mxolisi Kaunda and South African Police Service National Commissioner General Khehla Sithole at Dr JL Dube Sportsfield in Inanda on 20 November. Its aim is to create an environment that enhances social and economic transformation in South Africa through building of partnerships between communities and government in policing.

The initiative follows a dedicated integrated and multi-stakeholder approach aimed towards achieving safety through technology and other relevant platforms in order to achieve a smart city. It was implemented in Durban specifically at Inanda, which is among local areas recorded as crime hotspots because of high numbers of reported cases of sexual offences. 

Recent crime statistics released by Police Minister Bheki Cele indicated that eThekwini's three townships - uMlazi, Inanda and KwaMashu are amongst the leading hotspots for sexual offences in the country. Stats also revealed that eThekwini contributes more than 45 percent towards crime in KwaZulu-Natal, hence the implementation of this crime-fighting programme was welcomed by all stakeholders. 

During the Integrated Safer Cities launch, which stems from the national Crime Prevention Strategy with the intention of preventing and decreasing crime rates in major cities, a first-of-its-kind Fusion Centre in Africa was unveiled. Its purpose is to maintain and establish a platform for information sharing through a collaborative approach amongst stakeholders through evidence led information. In addition, the centre aims to provide an improved response to coordinated planning to deal with any eventuality. 

National Provincial and Local Government leadership access a first of its kind Fusion Centre unveiled on 20 November during Safer Cities Project launch at Dr JL Dube. The Centre that has been identified as an effective and efficient mechanism to exchange information and intelligence, maximize resources, streamline operations, and improve the ability to fight crime. 

Utilising state-of-the-art technology, the Fusion Centre, located at eThekwini's Disaster Management Centre, allows for integration of stakeholders from various disciplines, systems and software, coupled with extensive research and development. 

During the Safer Cities Project launch, Mayor Mxolisi Kaunda welcomed this innovative crime-fighting programme to be first implemented in the City and being specifically launched at an area like Inanda where efforts are being made to arrest the alarming levels of crime through collaboration with key stakeholders. 

He said the Safer City initiative has been prioritised as one of the critical government interventions that will contribute extensively towards the economic growth of the country.  ''The local government sphere is a pinnacle where development and innovation take place. People's aspirations for a better life is centered around Cities.''

Kaunda said as a springboard and in preparation for this project, the City launched Community Safety Forums (CSF's) and Local Drug Action Committees (LDAC's) whose core mandate is to build trust and strengthen relations between communities and law enforcement agencies. 

EThekwini Municipality Mayor, Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda signs a Memorandum of Understanding which commits him to the objectives of the newly launched Community Safety Structures. Supporting the initiative is MEC for Transport, Community Safety and Liason, Mr Bheki Ntuli and Department of Social Development MEC, Ms Nonhlanhla Khoza. 

''The structures, to be eyes and ears of government to ensure they respond timeously to crime issues, is earmarked to heighten community awareness on safety issues while encouraging community cohesion; and will provide a platform for community members to voice their concerns regarding safety in their area because each ward has different crimes and a one size fit all response can't work.''

''Our aim is to ensure safety in our communities in order to attract investments. It would be extremely difficult to attract tourists in an area like Inanda if it remains a hotspot for serious crimes such as sexual offences and murders,'' he said. 

The CSFs and LDAC structures, established in all eThekwini wards will undergo training in the beginning of year 2021 to ensure they are all better capacitated and delivers on their mandate. 

The introduction of these community safety structures is in line with the principles of eThekwini Municipality's Integrated Development Plan which aims to ensure that all citizens live in a safe, healthy and secure environment. The structure is expected to work hand in hand with the Safer Cities project stakeholders in fast-tracking the vision of ''Together building a Safer, caring and livable City for All''

Expected outcomes are to ensure effective policing through community participation, better relationship between the community and the police, empowered community, community driven programmes to address drugs which lead to reduced number of drug addicts, substance abuse and drug related crime as well as any kind of crime.

Community member and founder of the Gugu Dlamini Foundation that helps fight Gender Based Violence, Mandisa Mabaso said she is pleased with the dedication from the Mayor in youth development programmes and crime fighting strategies. ''I hope the community will be encouraged to work together with law enforcement agencies''. 

Mayor Kaunda pleads with communities to pull their weight and rally behind CSFs and LDACs. ''The success of the newly introduced Safer Cities crime-fighting programme can only be determined by the efforts and inputs of all stakeholders.''

The objectives of Ward Community Safety Forums and Local Drug Action Committees are as follows:

Join uShaka Marine World for a blessed Christmas celebration

 

It’s almost December time and something special is coming your way soon.

 

Celebrate Christmas this year with Durban’s most festive family – the Sea World dolphins at uShaka Marine World. Prepare to be blown away as the dolphins perform dazzling aquatic aerobatics to some of the most popular re-arranged Christmas tunes, adding an extra special sparkle to everyone’s end of the year celebrations.

 

From 10 - 13 December 2020, the uShaka Marine World Dolphin Stadium will be filled with much needed Christmas spirit and messages of hope, peace, kindness and love.

 

“This year’s ‘Not-So-Normal’ Dolphins by Starlight show will have something even more special, but we don’t want to ruin the surprise just yet. You will have to be there to experience the magic.” says Mantombi Tofile, Acting Marketing Executive at uShaka Marine World.

 

Seats will be limited due to Covid-19 regulations; therefore tickets will be sold on a first-come-first-served basis. Guests are requested to come through early in order to allow extra time for screening and adhere to venue protocols by wearing their masks at all times during the show whilst maintaining a safe social distance at all times.

 

The full Dolphins by Starlight show will also be available for online purchase from 21 December 2020. Further details will be published on uShaka Marine World’s website and social media pages.

Dolphins by Starlight, is one family treat that you don't want to miss this festive season, so don't delay, book today!  

Dates: 10 - 13 December

Time: 7pm – gates open at 6.30pm.   

Tickets: R199

 

Book now via www.ushakamarineworld.co.za

 

For more information, contact uShaka Marine World on 031 328 8000 during office hours.

5 Reasons to Try the Samsung UV Sterilizer

 

By Fred Felton

Oct. 8, 2020

Banish up to 99% of Bacteria and Germs at the Touch of a Button with the New UV Sterilizer.

The new UV Sterilizer from Samsung. | Image: Samsung

These are different times we live in and thanks to Samsung you now have a nifty little device which can keep your devices crystal clean.

To help combat the spread of bacteria and germs Samsung recently introduced their UV Sterilizer with Wireless Charging. It was manufactured by Samsung C&T, a partner of Samsung Mobile Accessory Partnership Program (SMAPP) and you can get it at your nearest online or retail store.

Samsung recently sent me one to review and here are 5 reasons you should seriously think about investing in one:

 

Keep your belongings safe and clean from bacteria and germs

This is the perfect device to use to make sure your own devices are safe from bacteria and germs. It kills up to 99% of bacteria and germs, including E.coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans, according to tests done by Intertek and SGS.

Fits a variety of devices

This sterilizer can fit a variety of devices such as your smartphone, earbuds and glasses and it can disinfect them in just 10 minutes, wherever you are.

 

Practical and Sleek Design

It has a great design which features dual UV lights that sterilize the item placed inside it. The minimal design also means it can fit in perfectly anywhere including your house or office.  

  

Easy to use

The UV Sterilizer is easy to use with a single button that turns it on or off. The device turns off automatically after 10 minutes.

 

Wireless charging

Thanks to the wireless charging it disinfects your smartphone and it will also charge the device at the same time, as long as your device can support Qi wireless charging. This means when it is done you can pick up your device and it is clean and fully charged at the same time.

 

It’s a nifty device and certainly useful in this new normal we now all live in. Keep an eye on some stores as they are offering this device free with some deals.

 

Fred Felton is a freelance tech journalist. Find him on Twitter @fredfelton

Support Durban and Umhlanga Tourism Venues

 

September is Tourism month and we had a look at various Tourism venues around Durban and Umhlanga to see if they are ready for business now that certain regulations have been lifted so that they may operate.

With inter-provincial travel allowed that means people from Cape Town, Johannesburg, Pretoria, Bloemfontein and other areas can now visit Durban and Umhlanga. | Image: Durban Tourism

Umhlanga Life visited well known tourism destinations in Durban and it was wonderful to see how well they are being supported. All Covid-19 regulations are being adhered to at various venues including Suncoast, uShaka Marine World, Circus Circus on the beachfront and venues in Florida Road. There is plenty of hand sanitiser available for people to keep their hands clean and there is signage to remind people to social distance. Wearing of masks is a priority except when eating or drinking. Please remember to wear your mask even when you visit a tourism destination. 

Ethekwini Mayor Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda, accompanied by tourism officials, conducted an oversight visit in Umhlanga recently to ensure that safety protocols are adhered to as the City reopens its tourism sector. | Image: eThekwini Municipality

‘’We enter Tourism Month with boosted confidence,’’ said eThekwini Mayor, Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda recently. 

He reminded residents to adhere to safety regulations and this includes wearing a mask when out in public, washing their hands frequently with soap or sanitiser while maintaining good social distancing.

Ethekwini Mayor Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda said entertainment hubs such as Florida Road and Chartwell Drive in uMhlanga Village as well as township hotspot establishments are ready to host visitors in accordance to Covid-19 regulations.

Take advantage of specials at uShaka Marine World. | Image: uShaka Marine World

‘’We look forward to seeing the public enjoying spaces such as Moses Mabhida Stadium, the beachfront, uShaka Marine World and the Oyster Box Hotel which recently took third place in Trip Advisor’s best hotels in Africa,’’ said Mayor Kaunda.

Beaches such as Bronze Beach in Umhlanga are now open to the public to explore and exercise on.  Image: Fred Felton

‘’Tourism is the life blood of Umhlanga without it our economy is drastically affected,’’ remarked Peter Rose Chairman of Umhlanga Tourism.

With these new regulations it also means that you can explore parks, botanical gardens, nature reserves and even exercise or do yoga on the beach. At present swimming is not permitted. Strict protocols will be adhered to in all of these venues.

People in South Africa are encouraged to visit and explore the City, to find out more about Durban visit www.visitdurban.travel or follow them on Facebook/Durban Tourism or Twitter and Instagram @dbntourism

Support the local tourism industry. | Image: Durban Tourism

‘’Durban has so much to offer both locals and visitors alike and now we need to support our local tourism industry more than ever. So let’s visit our local tourism attractions and take some time out to enjoy Durban’s great choice of restaurants, coffee shops and food stalls. If you don’t have money to spend you can still show your support by liking, sharing and commenting on the social media posts of your favourite local hangouts’’ says Durban resident Tessa Buhrmann, a travel writer and editor for Responsible Traveller digital magazine.

The impact of Covid-19 on the tourism industry has been massive.

‘’Accommodation occupancies have decreased from 70 percent to 46 percent, there has been a loss in tourism spend of R2.4 billion,’’ said Deputy City Manager of Economic Development and Planning Phillip Sithole.

Many major events planned in the City have been cancelled. Around 10 000 people have lost their jobs.

Visit Durban | Image: Fred Felton

Ethekwini Municipality recently launched their virtual destination programme, a campaign that seeks to promote the City as a premier and popular tourist destination.

The City also launched interventions to support the tourism industry, these include increased grant funding to community tourism organisations, discounts on Municipal leases in tourism areas such as the beachfront, re-categorisation of bed and breakfasts and guesthouses, facilitating business support linkages and issuing of filming permits with no charge.

‘’The programme will assist in many ways. We believe this along with various interventions will help ameliorate the impact of this pandemic,’’ said Winile Mtungwa, Deputy Head of Durban Tourism.

Bed and Breakfast and Guesthouse Establishments will receive a Covid-19 rebate to bring their rates payable to the same level as residential.

For more info visit: http://correspondence.durban.gov.za:200/ or visit a Customer Centre near you.

World Tourism Day is on 27 September. This will also see the city’s iconic buildings being lit up in a symbolic ceremony that will depict reigniting the tourism sector.

Vote for Durban in the 27th World Travel Awards | Image: eThekwini Municipality

There is also much to celebrate as eThekwini’s premium business and leisure attractions have been nominated in the prestigious 27^th World Travel Awards.

The City’s four direct nominations are Africa’s Leading Business Travel Destination 2020, Africa’s Leading City Destination 2020, Africa’s Leading Festival and Event Destination 2020 as well as Africa’s Leading Meetings and Conferences Destination 2020.

‘’The announcement of our City’s nine nominations couldn’t have come at a better time. This as we try to navigate our way out of a difficult period which has brought about immense economic challenges for our City, particularly the tourism sector,’’ said eThekwini Mayor Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda.

He urged the people of eThekwini and the people of South Africa to support Durban and vote in huge numbers.

Other nominations include King Shaka International Airport for Africa’s Leading Airport, Port of Durban for Africa's Leading Cruise Port, Durban landmark the Hilton Hotel received two nominations for Africa’s Leading Hotel and Africa’s Leading Business Hotel, Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre was nominated for Africa’s Leading Meetings and Conferences Centres.

Voting is open to the public now and closes Thursday 24 September.

Go to http://www.worldtravelawards.com/vote to register and vote now.

 

For more information on how eThekwini Municipality is helping you visit: www.durban.gov.za

How The Durban Film Office is Empowering Women

This month is Women’s month and we celebrate all of the wonderful women in the community.

It’s almost time for the Durban FilmMart.  The Durban FilmMart has been a programme of the eThekwini Municipality’s film industry unit, the Durban Film Office in partnership with the Durban International Film Festival since 2009.

The Durban Film Office has played a key role in advancing women in the film industry. This includes appointing Toni Monty as the Head of the Durban Film Office and Durban FilmMart. They have also made sure there are many more women bringing Durban FilmMart to the film industry in Durban and Umhlanga.

One example is the inspiring woman and Durban resident Jacintha de Nobrega. She was recently appointed as the Deputy Chair of the Inaugural Board of the Durban FilmMart Institute.  

She represents SWIFT (Sisters Working in Film and Television) an NPO that advocates and lobbies for women’s equality in the television and film industry. 

Jacintha de Nobrega is the Deputy Chair of the inaugural Board of the Durban FilmMart Institute. | Image: Supplied

We managed to interview her ahead of Durban FilmMart:

What can people expect from Durban FilmMart this year?

This year's theme for the Durban FilmMart, presented by the Durban FilmMart Institute, is Brave New Cinema, as leading and emerging African film professionals gather in an online space, to benchmark themselves, learn from peers, pitch their ideas and projects and network, and collectively demonstrate their courage to tell their own stories. 

The DFM features a series of webinars with presentation conversations, panel discussions, case studies and pitching with many opportunities for networking and engaging. 

How is eThekwini Municipality helping Durban FilmMart out this year?

The 2020 Durban FilmMart is being managed by the Durban Film Office (DFO) on behalf of the Durban FilmMart Institute; The DFO is the film industry arm of the eThekwini Municipality’s Economic Development unit.

What do you do to personally uplift the film community in Durban?

I have been a film and television producer in Durban for the past 5 years and my focus has always been to empower and create opportunities for Durban based film professionals. My productions have always included skills transfer and mentorship and it's been rewarding to see these young people go on to have a career and grow in the industry.

Who are your role models?

Women who are breaking the ceiling in their respective industries, we have a unique ability to have compassion and tolerance and this is needed in business. Jacinda Ardern, the Prime Minister of New Zealand is someone I have much respect for today as she has proven that women are good leaders.

What advice do you have for young female filmmakers?

Study your craft and those of your colleagues and then find a mentor. Believe in yourself and trust your intuition, it's one of the most powerful qualities women possess.

What is it like to sit on the board of the Durban FilmMart Institute?

It is indeed a privilege and honour for me to serve on the inaugural Board of the Durban FilmMart Institute. The autonomy that has been afforded will lend itself to the unleashing of even more creativity and opportunities for African filmmakers and for the city of Durban to claim its rightful place as a leader in the industry and elevate it internationally as well. I am looking forward to working in earnest with my colleagues to achieve this objective during my term.

How has COVID-19 impacted on your life and the film industry in Durban?

Covid-19 has literally put a stop to my business but not my life. Filming is way too uncertain right now and the risks and financial implications are too high. Life has to go on and this time has been well spent working on developing projects and realigning my business.

How can men help to stop gender-based violence in South Africa?

In calling for consciousness I urge men to take stock of their actions in every way possible. By speaking up when they see any kind of sexual harassment and by teaching young boys to respect women. It starts at home and parents have the power to reframe how young boys treat women.

It’s Women’s Month this month. What words of wisdom do you have for Durban women?

This Women’s month comes at a crisis point for women in South Africa with the sharp escalation in gender-based violence. I urge women to support and build one another. Alone we are strong but together we are stronger. Be strong and be fierce! 

Inspiring words from this female filmmaker based in Durban.

 

The Durban FilmMart recently announced that it will be established as an independent institute functioning as a Non-Profit Organisation ahead of its 11^th edition in 2020.

 

“This had always been part of the business plan of Durban FilmMart since its establishment in 2009,” explains Toni Monty, Head of the Durban Film Office and the DFM. “With the continued growth and expansion of the initiative, as well as the continuous increase in numbers of delegates, and submissions of projects in development, which have this year, surpassed any other in our 11-year history, the current structure has been outgrown, and sustainable long term strategies now need to be implemented.”

 

“Going forward the Durban Film Office will continue to support the DFM, and the Institute structure will allow possibilities for new partnerships and fundraising, that will ensure the growth and continued stability of the annual initiative,” says Monty.

 

The Durban Film Office and Durban FilmMart work to empower women and another example is by appointing South African arts administrator and project manager, Magdalene Reddy of Creative WorkZone, who has extensive experience in the film festival and market sector. She has been appointed as the project manager who will oversee the setting up of the institute ahead of the 2020 edition.

 

“Ms Reddy joins our team with a wealth of experience in governance and management in the Arts,” says Monty. “As a former senior administrator at the Durban International Film Festival, not to mention a string of other major international and national arts projects to her name, we believe that she is best placed to take this process forward with passion and integrity.”

The 11th Durban FilmMart (DFM) Virtual Edition takes place from 4 to 13 September this year.

The Durban Film Office continues to create awareness around gender-based violence. One such way is by featuring prominent filmmakers that deal with gender-based violence at Durban FilmMart. One example is Kenyan filmmaker Wanuri Kahui (Rafiki) who will feature in DFM Conversations at DFM 2020 | Image: Supplied

“Going online has enabled us to extend our reach and include more filmmakers than ever before,” says Mandisa Zitha, Chairperson of the Durban FilmMart Institute Board. “The disruption of our world by the COVID-19 virus has led to innovation, as well as demonstrated the ever-increasing need for the creation of content. The DFM virtual space now offers filmmakers extensive opportunities to network, make connections with other filmmakers and industry professionals with whom they can collaborate, or build relationships and get down to the business of film. This we believe will provide a positive stimulus for the industry’s economy on the continent.” 

Ms Zitha is another shining example of how the Durban Film Office is empowering women to take their rightful place in high profile positions.

To register as a delegate visit: http://www.durbanfilmmart.co.za/Brave-New-Cinema-2020 

DFM is presented by the Durban FilmMart Institute in partnership with the Durban Film Office, eThekwini Municipality and other partners.

For more info on how eThekwini Municipality is helping your city out visit: www.durban.gov.za

Review of the Nando's App

This week I was invited by Nando’s to try out their Nando’s App which now also features a kerbside experience. Now you can order your meal on the app and when you get to your nearest Nando’s look out for the kerbside signs and park in their parking bays. One of the friendly Nando’s staff will then come out with your order and you are good to go.

The Nando's App | Image: Nando's 

When you place your order on the App you also give them your car details so they can look out for you when you arrive for your next Nando’s fix.

The free app is pretty refreshing and does not take up much space on your device.

You can download it from your nearest App store.

The first step is to sign up and you can enter your cellphone number and a juicy password. Then you should be good to go to order your meal.

Nice options in the menu section include gift cards, your nearest store and more.

Easy order interface | Image: Nando's 

All the favourites are there and some great specials. It offers you some great options right down to how many pieces you want your chicken cut into, whether you want it well done and even if you want the skin on.

Tasty options | Image: Nando's 

You can even choose how hot you want your chicken. Tasty options include Tangy Tomato, Lemon & Herb, Mozam Paprika, Mild, Hot and of course Xtra Hot for those that like to live dangerously.

A nice touch is that you can also see the nutritional info for each meal.

The Nando's Menu for reference purposes of course | Image: Nando's 

If you are a fan of Boujee bowls you will be delighted to see that Nando’s now have some tantalising options for you.

If you are wanting something for Family & Friends try the Full chicken with 2 sharing sides which works out great value. You can choose sides that include spicy rice, salads, Nando’s rolls, Chips, Coleslaw and more.

Schedule your delivery time | Image: Nando's 

I like the fact that you can schedule when you want to collect your order so you can organise your lunch or supper early in the day and pick it up on the way home. What a concept!

I also like the fact that you can select which Nando’s store you want to collect at and the App search function works pretty well in picking up your nearest Nando’s.

Once you have ordered you should also get a SMS confirming your order.

Payment options include card or cash which comes in handy.

Another nice touch is that if you want to collect immediately the App will give you an ETA of when your order will be ready.

When I arrived at my nearest Nando’s I didn’t have to wait long at the kerbside parking. A friendly Nando’s staff member wearing PPE, mask and more came out and even sanitized my hands before she gave me my parcel. She even asked me to check that everything was correct in the order which was a nice touch.

Hungry? | Image: Nando's 

So now you have a handy option for weekend meals. You can either use the Kerbside functionality on the Nando’s App or Website or through their call centre.

Simply order, drive to Nando’s and collect…without leaving your car. They bring your order to your car window. No more waiting in long queues.

 The Nando’s Kerbside Experience easy user guide

 All you need to do is:

 

            1. Download the Nando’s app on the Android or iOS app store (it’s FREE)

            OR

            2. Call 087 997 1955 to place your order for Kerbside collection

            3. Give them your car deets (Car make, colour and registration) so they know                     how to find you when you pull up

            4. Drive to Nando’s and follow their Kerbside signs

            5. Park at the Kerbside parking or as close as possible to Nando’s so they                        know where to find you

            6. They will meet you in the parking lot and bring your food to your car window.

In the spirit of social distancing, you don’t even have to leave the safety of your car. All their employees continue to follow the strictest hygiene and social distancing precautions by wearing masks and regularly sanitising their hands.

If that doesn’t work for you but you’ve been missing them, use the Nando’s Drive-Thru and takeaway services. So get in the car (or mask up and take a walk), put foot and get your PERi-PERi on! If you’d like to stay home, you can continue to order your food for delivery using the Nando’s app or use their partners Mr D, and Uber Eats platforms.

Budget Friendly Meals | Image: Nando's 

For those of you wondering how good a Nando’s meal is, well let me put it to you this way. Somebody tried to phone me while I was eating my Nando’s and I didn’t bother to answer. So yeah, it’s that good.

The app is certainly worth the download when next you want to order lunch or supper.

Unless you are chicken?

 

Rating: Highly recommended.

 

This review by Fred Felton | Twitter @fredfelton

Virtual Tour of Mandela Monuments in KZN

In July we celebrate Mandela Month. There are many landmarks around Durban and KwaZulu-Natal that feature this icon. Due to the COVID-19 lockdown many of them are closed until after the lockdown has been lifted.

Take a virtual tour with us as we show you the many places where Nelson Mandela has featured in Durban and KwaZulu-Natal:

The Mandela Capture Site

The Nelson Mandela Sculpture at the Capture Site. | Image: SA Tourism

On 5 August 1962, on a road along the R103 near Howick in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, armed apartheid police flagged down a car in which Nelson Mandela was pretending to be the chauffeur.

It was at this spot that he was arrested and disappeared from public view for 27 years.

At this spot is an iconic sculpture which was unveiled in 2012 by the then President Jacob Zuma.

The location was made possible thanks to the Department of Co-Operative Government and Traditional Affairs which worked with uMgeni Municipality, the Apartheid Museum and the KwaZulu-Natal Heritage Council in association with the Nelson Mandela Centre of Memory.

The sculpture was designed by artist Marco Cianfanelli and is made up of 50 steel column constructions – each between 6.5 and 9.5 metres tall – set in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands landscape.

The site was designed by architect Jeremy Rose.

‘’The 50 columns represent the 50 years since his capture, but they also suggest the idea of many making the whole; of solidarity,’’ says Cianfanelli of the sculpture.

When the lockdown has been lifted you can visit it here:

Address: Mandela Capture Site, R103, Howick, 3290

Telephone: 072-351-0967

You can take a virtual tour here: https://www.thecapturesite.co.za/virtual-tour

Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine

The entrance to the Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine. | Image: Google

The school of medicine is in Umbilo in Durban and is part of the University of KwaZulu-Natal. It has been around for over 60 years and provides a high quality of training for medical students.

The medical school has a strong focus on rural health including a partnership with the local Department of Health which offers the students opportunities in rural health care.

The school has also produced internationally renowned scientists and research output.

Address: 719 Umbilo Road, Umbilo, Durban, 4001

Phone: 031-260-1111 | Website: https://www.ukzn.ac.za

The Nelson Mandela Postcards

The Nelson Mandela Postcards on display at Tourism Indaba 2018. | Image: Fred Felton

These postcards were shown to the public at the Tourism Indaba 2018 held at the International Convention Centre in Durban, South Africa. Delegates from the travel industry could see them on display and even take some home with them. They feature images of Nelson Mandela and highlights from his life. If you happen to have one hold on to them as they are quite the collector’s item.

The Struggle Icons

These statues were shown to the public at Africa's Travel Indaba in 2019 at the Durban International Convention Centre. They feature Nelson Mandela and Albert Luthuli. | Image: Fred Felton

Nelson Mandela officially opened the Durban International Convention Centre in 1997. It was later renamed to the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre Complex. It has held some of the biggest conferences and events in South Africa, Africa and the World. At the time when it was made it was one of the single largest investments made by the City of Durban.

During the lockdown the Durban Exhibition Centre which is part of the centre was used as a reception and screening centre for eThekwini Municipality as a response to sheltering the homeless during the lockdown.  The eThekwini Task Team on Homelessness identified varies sites for looking after the homeless of the City.

Durban ICC Chief Executive Officer, Lindiwe Rakharebe noted, ‘’The Durban ICC is committed to playing its part in and offering as much support as we can. Initially one-thousand people were expected to be screened at the centre; however we were able to help 1,600 people over the course of the first 3 days.’’

For more info visit: www.icc.co.za

The Ohlange Institute

The grave of John L. Dube at the Ohlange Institute. | Image: Fred Felton

This site is steeped in history and is certainly worth a visit when the lockdown is over. Here you will find the first school started by a black person, John Langalibalele Dube. He went on to become the first president of the African National Congress.

Nelson Mandela chose to cast his vote in the first democratic election of South Africa at the Ohlange Institute on April 27, 1994.

Address:  Off M25 Inanda Highway, Behind Ohlange Library, Inanda, 4310

For more information contact Durban Tourism on 031-322-4164

Email: info@visitdurban.travel

Date for your diary: The Anniversary of the Birthday of Nelson Mandela – 18 July 1918

We leave you with this quote from the great man:

‘’It always seems impossible until it’s done’’ – Nelson Mandela

This virtual tour of Nelson Mandela landmarks in Durban and KZN was brought to you courtesy of eThekwini Municipality.

For more info on how they look after your city visit: www.durban.gov.za