South Africa
des couleurs inoubliables

An Interesting Piece of History

The KwaMuhle Museum is one of a few local history museums in Durban, others include the Umkhumbane/Cato Manor Cultural & Heritage Museum and the Port Natal Maritime Museum. Visiting these institutions will give visitors a well-rounded idea on past and present South Africa.

The Museum is housed in the old “Department of Native Affairs” building, once one of the most despised structures in Durban. Apartheid was a South African political regime that was based on discrimination, and was in effect from 1948 to 1994. This government department had the task of enforcing the legislation put into place by an apartheid system. Today however, the building stands for a place of hope and optimism and is a place where diversity is celebrated and where those were once part of the struggle are now honoured.

“Kwa Muhle” is a Zulu term that means “the place of the good one” and was named after a certain Mr. Marwick, a man who saved no less than 7 000 Zulu people by helping them escape Gauteng (then called Transvaal) at a time when their lives were in danger from Settlers.

The Museum is not an Apartheid or an African History museum, but is a history of the town’s residents. Exhibits include large black and white prints reflecting township life and the history of black political trade unions and cultural organisations. The vision of these exhibits are on correcting the inaccuracies in the historical record left by Apartheid, to create a heritage that is forthright and honest.

Things to see and do

  • History of Durban region
  • Story of Andrew Zondo
  • Township Life Displays
  • Old South Africa Remnants & Objects
  • Apartheid Exhibit
  • Photographs & Videos
  • Beer Brewing & Distribution Exhibit
  • AIDS/HIV and TB Exhibit

Admission

Admission is Free

Closed on Sundays and Public Holidays

Prices are subject to change, please confirm directly with the Museum

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