Charged with an earnest desire for peace and reconciliation, the communities of Dundee, in KwaZulu-Natal, and its surrounding districts rallied to commemorate the Anglo-Boer South African War Centenary (1999-2002) in true Rainbow Nation spirit.
Last Saturday’s programme began with the re-enactment of the Battle of Talana (October 20 1899). A fine performance from volunteer men, boys and a few young women gave spectators an authentic insight into the first battle of the long and bitter war, a turning point in the history of South Africa. The British claimed they had won the battle, but a counter-attack from the Boers led to the British troops’ silent march out of Dundee on October 22 1899. British casualties included 51 killed, 203 wounded and 246 prisoners-of-war, while the Boers recorded 40 killed, 120 wounded and 12 prisoners-of-war.
The battle affected and involved all the local communities and, in memory of the British, Zulu, Indian and Afrikaner groups who lived and died through the ordeal, the Talana Memorial Wall of Peace and Reconciliation was unveiled. His Royal Highness the Duke of Kent, who uncovered the British Forces’ plaque on October 10 1999, was represented by Sheila Henderson, chairperson of the Talana Museum Board of Trustees.
“Without pride of ancestry, there is no hope for posterity. The hurts, mistakes, brutalities and horrors of the past must be put behind us and forgotten,” she said in an emotion- ally charged address.
The Mayor of Dundee, Councillor Abner Mfeka, represented the Zulu community, Santhilal Soni was there for the Indian Medical Corps, while Harsh Bhasin, the High Commissioner of India, unveiled a bust of Mahatma Gandhi, and Joubero Celliers spoke on behalf of the Afrikaner community.
“Let battle pride and warrior lust henceforth lie silent in the dust,” were among the inspirational words inscribed on the wall.
Traditional Zulu dancers motivated by the resounding pulse of beating drums, added vigour and vitality to the day. This was the inauguration of an annual Zulu dance competition. Under the baton of an enthusiastic conductor, the Newcastle High School brass band provided contrasting light, formal, foot-tapping musical entertainment.
The Talana Museum, which is open seven days a week, has many interesting exhibits, including military displays on the Zulu, Anglo-Zulu and Anglo-Boer wars. It is situated on the only battlefield in South Africa where buildings from the time of the battle still exist. A national glass collection and a simulated underground coal mine experience are added attractions.
The day was highly successful, with the only disappointments being the poorly supplied craft market and the long monotonous speeches in which politicians so zealously indulge themselves. This was the most ambitious event Dundee had undertaken and it was tackled with remarkable enthusiasm. Encouraging tourism and economic growth were the initiatives, and establishing the festival as an annual spectacle is under consideration.
November 20 will feature the last re- enactment of the Battle of Talana, the opening of the reconstructed blockhouse at Talana Museum, a shooting competition and an evening of melodrama. Tickets at R20 for adults and R5 for pupils give access to the museum, the British and Boer camps and all the events of the day. For details, phone Tourism Dundee at (034) 212-2121 extension 262, or fax (034) 218-2837.