The Phoenix Settlement, a national heritage site in Inanda, Durban, holds great significance in South Africa’s history, representing the country’s fight for justice and peace. This historic site is closely associated with two of the world’s most iconic leaders, Mahatma Gandhi and Nelson Mandela.
To preserve the site’s beauty and dignity the Gandhi Development Trust invited organisations from different sectors to assist in programmes such as cleaning the site, painting and planting.
Dr Sogen Moodley, Research Associate at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) and Durban Coalition, explained the purpose of the day: “The purpose of this day was to honour Madiba (Nelson Mandela) and reflect on the legacy of Mahatma Gandhi. By greening the area, cleaning, and painting, we were not only giving back to the community but also paying tribute to these two iconic leaders. We mobilised organisations from both within and outside the area to assist with the cleaning and renovation efforts, making it a truly collective and impactful initiative.”
DUT students assisting in greening the Phoenix Settlement.
On the recent Mandela Day celebrated on Thursday, 18 July 2024, DUT staff and students embarked on a meaningful journey to give back to the heritage site of Phoenix Settlement. They helped in painting the walls, clean the site and planting fever plant and greening the site with other plants around to restore the settlement’s beauty and dignity.
Dr Mal Reddy, Associate Director of Public Management and Economics at DUT, expressed her passion and commitment to engaging in community outreach activities and the Commemoration of Mandela Day serves to unite people from diverse backgrounds in a common cause, strengthening community networks and enhancing social cohesion. It is with much pride that Dr Reddy goes on to recognise the importance of investing in and driving strategic community development in the Phoenix Settlement with the aim of contributing towards the holistic development of the Inanda community, addressing social, economic, and environmental issues collaboratively.
More importantly, she believes that participation in these commemorative events and strengthening community engagement efforts is crucial for honouring historical legacies, promoting social justice, and fostering a connected and resilient community. She further expressed gratitude for DUT’s involvement in the initiative to transform the Phoenix Settlement into a world heritage site.
Peace Activist, Ela Gandhi from the Gandhi Development Trust highlighted the profound impact of Mahatma Gandhi’s ideals on Nelson Mandela, underscoring their pivotal role in South Africa’s peaceful transition through negotiations.
“Mandela Day holds immense significance as both leaders with Mahatma Gandhi they emphasised the importance of voluntary service and community involvement in effecting positive change. Mandela Day served as a catalyst for bridging gaps between ordinary citizens, local NGOs, the public sector, government entities, and private businesses, fostering collective action towards societal progress and unity,” she said.
Gandhi expressed great satisfaction with the successful outcome of their planned activities for the day. She noted the achievement of their targets and the active participation of individuals assuming responsibility to drive initiatives forward, emphasising the necessity for engagement in NGO work. She also highlighted the valuable partnerships formed with DUT and academic organisations, underscoring the importance of integrating university knowledge and expertise into their endeavours.
After the cleaning, painting and planting activities, a meeting was held, where they discuss the site’s current challenges and launched their vision for 2030. The vision aims to enhance the site’s safety and security, support education and training, redesigning and site planning, growing the local economy, and undertake various other initiatives to restore the site’s beauty and attract tourist.
During the engagement, DUT committed to collaborate with eThekwini Municipality, Gandhi Development Trust, and other stakeholders to promote the site and raise its profile. Additionally, DUT expressed its willingness to provide support in various areas depending on the site’s specific needs. DUT students participated in greening the Phoenix Settlement.
Pictured: The Gandhi Development Trust, DUT and other organisations gathered in Phoenix Settlement to pledge their support in changing the Phoenix Settlement from a national heritage site to a world heritage site.
Photographer: Phiwayinkosi Sibiya
Phiwayinkosi Sibiya/Sinamile Sithole
