Apart from its beautiful beaches, adventure activities, street markets, delicious bunny chow and botanical gardens, the city of Durban is also known for its historical significance. The EThekwini Inanda Heritage Route in the Inanda Valley, north of Durban, gives travelers the opportunity to explore the remarkable historical heritage that shaped South Africa's future. The Inanda Heritage Trail contains some very important elements not only of South Africa's history but also of India's past. For this reason, Inanda is widely referred to as the “cradle of South African democracy''.
Inanda Valley witnessed a great historical moment when two of the world's greatest leaders, Nelson Mandela and Mahatma Gandhi, fought for equality, justice and peace on their front lawn. It was from this valley that Nelson Mandela became the first black man to cast a vote in South Africa's first democratic elections. Gandhi's famous Satyagraha movement was also conceptualized here.
With a fascinating past, Inanda Heritage Tours will awaken the history buff in you. This tour also provides insight into the rich culture and beliefs of Durban's local communities.
Phoenix Settlement
The trail begins from this village. It is located 20 kilometers north of Durban and was founded by Gandhi in 1904. Gandhi stayed here until it was closed in 1961 and published his weekly newspaper 'Indian Opinion'. This settlement is located within his 100 acre farm which is now Gandhi's home 'Sarvodaya'. where he lived with his family, the printing press building where he published a weekly magazine, his son Manilal's home, and the Phoenix Interpretation Center where lectures are still held. It was here that he published his first book, “Indian Home His Rules.” Once home to a clinic, school, and residences, this settlement has emerged as a symbol of independence, work, and simple communal living. It was also an important center of resistance during South Africa's apartheid era, drawing activists from across the country.
Orange Research Institute
Opened in 1901, the Orange Institute was the first black-managed institution in South Africa at a time when it was believed that black people could not develop or manage their own institutions. It was built by John Dube, the first president of the current ruling party, the African National Congress (ANC). In South Africa's first democratic elections, Mandela cast his first vote from the institute's chapel. He came all the way from Pretoria to cast this historic vote. Needless to say, his Institute of Orange is one of the most famous stops on the Inanda Trail.
Inanda Seminary
Inanda Girls' Seminary was the first and only school for black girls in South Africa. Currently, the school is the oldest boarding school for girls in the country. The school was one of the few mission schools in South Africa to remain independent throughout the apartheid era. A missionary couple to South Africa built a seminary for girls so that they too could receive an education. Today, the school is functioning with beautiful old buildings and gardens. There is also a well-maintained museum and archive.
Shembe settlements of Ekufakameni and Ebufuleni
If you love history and culture, the village of Shembe is a must-see. Shembe is a faith indigenous to South Africa, and Shembe Church is one of the most famous churches in Africa. Ekufakameni is home to the original Shembe Temple, built by volunteers in 1918, and the Shembe International Church is located in Ebufuleni. Thousands of believers travel to Ebufuleni every January for the pilgrimage to the holy mountain, and again in July for the festival.
Mziyanti Waterfall
The route also includes a sacred waterfall used for religious purposes such as baptisms at Ibandla Lama Nazareta (Nazareth Baptist Church). At the foot of the cliff there is a Rasta cave with a rock house. These rock houses are home to a community called Rastafarians who live near the base of the falls and practice a peaceful way of life. You can visit these waterfalls to gain deeper insight into their cultural practices.
Itanda Dam
This dam is an important reservoir for the eThekwini region. Since 1998, the dam has hosted regular bass fishing tournaments. Canoeists participating in the annual Dusi Canoe Marathon camp in Inanda before continuing their journey. Jazz festivals featuring local music are also held in the area. Archaeological excavations prior to the dam's construction unearthed many artifacts that shed light on the country's history, dating back to the Stone Age. Currently, there are several guesthouses and resorts near the dam. Zebras can also be seen grazing along the coast. The dam is now known for water sports, camping, picnicking, boating, and other recreational activities.
Inanda's historic route recognizes and honors the leaders of the struggle against apartheid. Although often overlooked, this place is truly a symbol of the country's freedom struggle.
Venture this route and delve deeper into South Africa's history and culture.
Published on: Monday, October 10, 2022, 1:47 PM IST