UMngeni Mayor Chris Pappas, Speaker Janis Holmes, KZN Legislature Speaker, Mmabatho Tembe and Consul General of India in Durban, Dr Thelma John David and Dr Isri Bedassi of the 1860 Legacy Foundation was present during the unveiling of the monument. Picture: Supplied.
The UMngeni Local Municipality in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands has unveiled a monument, paying tribute to the Indian indentured labourers who arrived in South Africa about 165 years ago.
The monument was unveiled on Saturday at the Howick museum.
UMngeni mayor Chris Pappas stated that the monument is a tribute to the resilience, courage, and contributions of the indentured Indian labourers to the province of KwaZulu-Natal and to the country.
In a speech, the mayor spoke on the importance of the monument.
He said in 1860, the first groups of Indian labourers were brought to Natal by the British colonial government to work on the sugar plantations.
Many of them later made their way into the Midlands, where they endured hardship and built new lives through sheer determination and perseverance.
“They became farmers, traders, and workers in vital sectors such as the post office and the railways, laying the foundations of industries that shaped our local economy. More importantly, they built strong communities, passing down values of hard work, family, and service to future generations.
“Their contribution went beyond labour. They helped shape the culture of this region, establishing places of worship, preserving traditions, and strengthening the social fabric of our society.
“However, they also faced great adversity: racism, economic hardship, and systemic barriers. Yet, they never gave up. They fought for their dignity, their rights, and their place in South Africa, leaving behind a legacy of resilience that continues to inspire us today,” said Pappas.
He said the monument project was spearheaded by the 1860 Legacy Foundation led by Dr Isri Bedassi. The foundation raised the funds and drove the project.
“It is an honour to stand before you today as we unveil this monument. May it serve as a reminder, not just of the struggles of the past, but of the triumphs, the endurance, and the incredible spirit of those who came before us. Let it inspire us to honour their legacy by building a future that is just, inclusive, and full of opportunity for all,” he said.
DA leader Francois Rodgers said: “This monument is open to the public and offers an important opportunity for locals, visitors, and especially young people to learn about the rich history of the area,” he said.
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