About Gugu Dlamini Park
What is, essentially, a roof garden above the Workshop in the centre of Durban, the Gugu Dlamini Park (formerly Central Park) was named on World Aids Day, 1 December 2000, in tribute to Gugu Dlamini for breaking the silence on Aids in South Africa.
Did you know? At the park's centre is a giant red ribbon, The Aids Ribbon, a huge sculpture atop a mosaic mound.
There is a Wall of Hope in the Park as well as a dedication plaque to the woman who forced the country to come to terms with AIDS.
Gugu Dlamini was beaten to death near KwaMashu just outside Durban, in December 1998, for coming out about her HIV status just after she appeared on national television to tell the country her story. Gugu was a volunteer field worker for the National Association of People Living with HIV/AIDS.
Shortly after her televised appearance, she again disclosed her status at a stadium in KwaMashu, which has one of the highest rates of HIV in the country.
This was a bold move on her part. At the time the stigma around HIV/AIDS meant that nobody revealed their HIV status or talked about the disease as a social issue. There was open animosity towards people who spoke openly about these issues, particularly as HIV/AIDS was seen as immoral.
The fear that she would infect others merely by being in the same room as them meant that she was killed by a group of men from her township. Her death brought to everyone's attention the discrimination prevalent in the country.
Need to Know
WhereGugu Dlamini Park, Samora Machel Street, Central Durban, Durban, KwaZulu Natal, South Africa
WhenBest during daylight hours.
Please note: The park is not always safe. There is a high prevalence of street kids and vagrants, so take care when walking alone.
OvernightStay in Durban Accommodation, KwaZulu Natal
Disclaimer
Please note, business details can change. While we endeavour to ensure all information provided by the service provider is correct at the time of publication, we do not assume any liability caused by errors or changes, such as price, cost, time, and location. Please check with the provider that the activity/business is still offered as described, before making any travel plans.
Feedback?
If this is your attraction, you can let us know if anything on this page is outdated or contains inaccuracies, by email. We regret, we do not have any other information, please contact the provider if you have questions.
Additional Reading
You might also be interested inAttractions near Durban Central
In the vicinity
Hotels & other accommodation options in Durban
Happy Days Two Bed Apartment
Happy Days Two Bed Apartment offers guests a well-appointed apartment situated a stone's throw from the beach. Explore miles of unspoiled beaches...
Idwala Tides 217
Idwala Tides 217 is a modern apartment found in the very popular complex of Cozumel, offering Umdloti accommodation with a fantastic view of Umdl...
Sugar Beach 4A
This is a large three bedroom, two bathroom apartment accommodating a total of six guests, with great views of the famous Umdloti tidal pool. It ...
The Lazy Lizard Guesthouse
The Lazy Lizard Guesthouse offers accommodation in Umhlanga and is within close driving distance of the main swimming beach. There are a number o...
The Tides Inn
The Tides Inn is a relaxed, family run Bed & Breakfast with magnificent sea views. We offer a home away from home atmosphere and are ideally situ...
Palm Gate 193
Situated in Umhlanga Ridge, Palm Gate 193 is within walking distance from Umhlanga beach and is just 200m from the KwaZulu Natal Sharks Board. Ga...
Isikulu 44
Isikulu 44 holiday apartment has three bedrooms and accommodates six guests. Two of the bedrooms have double beds and the third has two single be...
Soul House
Soul House is a home away from home offering accommodation in two self catering apartments. There is a trendy cafe extending into a surf shop on ...
Things to do in the area
Absorb & Acquire African Art
After a working day pushing tankers around Durban's harbour, tubby little tugboats rest at the bluff listening to live African jazz, rock or Regg...
Big Swing at Moses Mabhida Stadium
For the ultimate ride of your life the 'Big Rush Big Swing' at the Moses Mabhida Stadium is a must. This is the world's only stadium swing and th...
Cato Manor Heritage Centre
Photographs, documents, artwork and oral histories at this unique and interactive museum capture the life and times of the area and its inhabitan...
Durban Cultural and Documentation Centre
Visit the Durban Cultural and Documentation Centre - This centre, on the corner of Epsom Road and Derby Street documents the fascinating history ...
Francis Farewell Square
This historic square in the middle of Durban is the spot where the city originated as a tiny settlement of itinerant traders and hunters in the e...
Have a curry - Durban style!
The Britannia Hotel in Durban has been around since 1879 and now enjoys the status of a listed building, adding to Durban's colonial charm.The ho...
Old Court House Museum
Durban's Old Court House Museum pays delightful homage to the heritage of Durban. This city is the capital of KwaZulu-Natal Province and home to ...
Play Miniature Golf
A novelty version of golf on a mini outdoor golf course this activity is a fun novelty for all the mini and maxi family members. At 19th Hole Put...
Shark Patrol Boat Adventure
'Ssssshhhh don't wake the fish!' You'll be excused for thinking that you are the only life force raised as you ascend before the sun and head for...
Accommodation convenient to Gugu Dlamini Park
FIND / South Africa Accommodation / KwaZulu Natal Accommodation / Durban Accommodation