On 9 May 2010, KZN Literary Tourism attended a prestigious launch event held at Ohlange Institute, Inanda. This was the unveiling of the statues of Nelson Mandela, first president of the democratic South Africa, and John Langalibalele Dube, founder and first leader of the South African National Congress, now known as the ANC. The event also marked the launch of the revamped Inanda Heritage Trail which aims to draw tourists from all over the world to visit this area. The Inanda Heritage Trail consists of the Phoenix/Ghandi Settlement, Ohlange Institute, Shembe Ebuhleni and Inanda Seminary School; these places being the main tourist attractions on the route.
The launch event was graced by the presence of the Premier of KwaZulu-Natal, Dr Zweli Mkhize, Deputy Mayor of Durban Logie Naidoo, Minister of Social Development Dr Mike Mabuyakhulu and eThekwini City Manager Mike Sutcliffe. Also in attendance was the granddaughter of JL Dube. Zenzele Dube, the spokesperson for the family, said "We are happy as the Dube family, this is a great day for us and the community of Inanda”.
Dr JL Dube is regarded as one of the most prominent writers of his time having written books such as UJeqe, the body servant of King Shaka and Inkinsela yase Mgingundlovu (The Rich Man of Pietermaritzburg). He was also founder of the newspaper Ilanga lase Natal. Dr Dube will not only be remembered for his books and his political leadership but also for his role in building the school (Ohlange Institute), hence he was given the name Mafukuzela (which means the person who works tirelesly). Dr JL Dube is featured in the INK Writers' Trail compiled by KZN Literary Tourism. and
The unveiling of Dube's statue in the place where Nelson Mandela first cast his vote on 27 April 1994 is significant because both these gentlemen played a huge part in shaping the country. Mandela cast his vote at Ohlange in honour of the pioneering work done by JL Dube. On that day Dr Mandela said these words before Dube's grave: "I am here before you Mr. President to report to you that South Africa is free and now may your soul rest in peace".
Given the enormous number of people attending the launch of the Inanda trail and the unveiling of the statues, tourists are sure to want to visit the pleasant place, Inanda.
Woza eNanda!(Come to Inanda!)
