Durban’s sprawling townships of Umlazi and KwaMashu often evoke images of their apartheid-era origins and persisting challenges. However, these communities have rich histories, vibrant cultural scenes, and stories of everyday life that demand to be told.
Let’s dig into some surprising facets of these iconic townships.
15 Little-Known Facts
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Zulu Roots: Historically, the land where Umlazi and KwaMashu exist was part of the Zulu Kingdom, highlighting a connection to the region’s deep heritage.
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Forced Removals, Twice Over: The establishment of Umlazi and KwaMashu involved not only the forced removal of black residents from Durban itself but also the displacement of Zulu communities from rural areas.
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Mega-Townships: Both Umlazi and KwaMashu rank among South Africa‘s largest townships, each a bustling metropolis in its own right with diverse neighborhoods.
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Inkatha Stronghold: KwaMashu, in particular, has a strong historical connection with the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), a significant political player in KwaZulu-Natal.
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Vibrant Markets: Durban townships boast lively markets. Umlazi’s Mega City offers a huge array of goods, while KwaMashu’s Bridge City is equally vast.
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Traditional Zulu Culture: Despite urbanization, many residents maintain strong ties to traditional Zulu customs, seen in ceremonies, attire, and the practice of traditional medicine.
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Creative Hubs: Projects like the BAT Centre in Umlazi nurture Durban‘s artistic talent across various disciplines, with many artists hailing from township backgrounds.
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Rise of the Malls: Malls like Umlazi’s Mega City and KwaMashu’s Bridge City bring modern shopping experiences to townships, changing consumption patterns.
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Sports Powerhouses: Durban townships produce talented sports stars in various fields, especially football (soccer) and boxing.
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“Shisanyama” Scene: Townships are a major part of Durban’s famous “shisanyama” (barbecue) culture, with popular eateries serving up grilled meats and vibrant atmospheres.
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Religious Diversity: Beyond the dominant Christian faith, Umlazi and KwaMashu are home to Hindu temples, mosques, and other places of worship, reflecting the community’s diverse backgrounds.
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Tackling the Housing Crisis: While informal settlements persist, government and non-profit initiatives are working on affordable housing solutions within the townships.
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Educational Strides: Townships have seen a rise in schools and educational facilities, though challenges in the overall education system remain.
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Environmental Impact: Industrialization near townships raises concerns about pollution and its effects on residents’ health and the environment.
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Stories Waiting to be Told: Countless personal stories of love, loss, dreams, and overcoming obstacles exist within these townships, often unheard in mainstream narratives.
Conclusion
Umlazi and KwaMashu defy simple categorization. They are places of deep historical wounds, ongoing socioeconomic struggles, and a profound will to achieve a better future.