YEARS of delays and setbacks in building the 1860 Indian Indentured Labourers Monument in Durban were overshadowed in a positive way by the sod-turning ceremony that marked the start of construction on Thursday, March 13.

The handover of the construction site to the contractor was presided over by KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli, who said the monument honours the resilience and sacrifices made by the indentured labourers who first arrived in Durban in 1860. He said, “This monument is going to be a symbol of remembrance and a tribute to the sacrifices and contributions of the thousands of indentured labourers who shaped the history of our province. It stands as a beacon of unity, remembrance, and appreciation for their enduring spirit.”

The sod-turning ceremony was also attended by India’s Consulate General, Dr Thelma John David; Sport, Arts and Culture MEC Mntomuhle Khawula; Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs MEC Rev Musa Zondi, as well as prominent Indian community leaders.

The monument, which will feature a bronze sculpture of an indentured couple with a child, placed on a plinth, incorporating elements of the original arch of unity design concept, will pose a striking figure on the South Beach landscape, near uShaka Marine World. The monument is expected to be completed ahead of the 165th commemoration of the arrival of the 1860 indentured labourers on November 16, 2025.

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“This is the story of Indians that is being told here,” said Dr John David as she welcomed the start of the construction. “This fulfilment of this commitment by government honours the toil and suffering of all the Indians that were brought from India to South Africa under various circumstances from 1860. Our people have not been forgotten.”

The erecting of the monument was also hailed by Pundit Suresh Singh of Jagrati Nauyuwak Sangh (JNS). He said this was a long-awaited recognition as a momentous occasion for the Indian community in South Africa. “This recognition means the world to our community. It acknowledges our ancestors’ bravery, resilience, and perseverance. It celebrates our rich cultural heritage and the significant role we’ve played in shaping South Africa’s history,” said Singh.

“It will educate future generations about our history, cultural traditions, and the values that have defined us. We’re grateful for this recognition and look forward to the monument’s completion. May it stand as a lasting tribute to our ancestors and a symbol of our community’s enduring spirit.”

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