How old is Umlazi?

Umlazi was established as a Black township in 1967, and it was one of the places where many people who had been displaced from Cato Manor ended up. It housed African laborers, many of whom were required to work in White-owned industries in South Durban. The township grew to become Durban’s largest.

Umlazi was officially opened to black residents in 1965 (most of whom formerly resided in Durban) and acquired town status in 1973. In the early 21st century Umlazi became part of the eThekwini Municipal Area.

What is the history of Umlazi?

Legend has it that Umlazi comes from “umlaza”, the Zulu word for the sour acid produced from fermented or sour milk. It is believed that when King Shaka was passing through the area, he refused to drink from a local river claiming it had the taste of “umlaza”. The area was called Umlazi after this incident.

When was Umlazi built?

In 1967 Umlazi was established as a Black township and was one of the places where many who were displaced from Cato Manor ended up. It housed African labourers, many of whom were needed to work in White-owned industries in the South Durban industrial area. The township would later become the largest in Durban.

How old is the city of Durban?

Durban was founded in 1835 on the site of Port Natal and was named for Sir Benjamin D’Urban, the governor of the Cape Colony. In the late 1830s and early ’40s the Boers clashed with the British over control of Durban. It became a borough (town) in 1854 and was created a city in 1935.

What is the population of Umlazi in 2021?

about 400 000

Today, Umlazi (situated 17km southwest of Durban) has a population of about 400 000.