KZN Ladysmith name change approved by government
The Government Gazette published the name change on 22 March 2024. Henceforth, the town formerly known as Ladysmith will be referred to as uMnambithi.
Minister Zizi Kodwa, of Sport, Arts & Culture, has approved the Ladysmith’s town name change under Section 10 (2) of the South African Geographical Names Council Act (Act No 118 of 1998).
The Government Gazette published the name change on 22 March 2024. Henceforth, the town formerly known as Ladysmith will be referred to as uMnambithi.
LADYSMITH NAME CHANGE, SHEDDING COLONIAL LEGACY
The decision to rename the town marks a significant departure from its colonial past. Originally named after Juana María de los Dolores de León Smith, also known as ‘Lady Smith’, the Spanish wife of Sir Harry Smith, the governor of the Cape Colony in October 1850.
According to Northern Natal News, its historical significance resonates worldwide, particularly due to its pivotal role during the Second Boer War. The town endured a lengthy siege by Boer forces starting 2 November 1899, which was ultimately broken on 28 February 1900, after multiple attempts by both British and Boer forces.
The presence of notable figures such as Winston Churchill and Mahatma Gandhi during the siege adds layers to its historical narrative.
MAYOR SIBISI BACKS DEMOCRATIC RENAMING
Mayor Zama Sibisi, as reported by Jacaranda FM, expressed the municipality’s support for the Ladysmith name change process, emphasising its democratic nature. Sibisi highlighted that the application for the name change originated from residents within the municipality.
The municipal authorities, in alignment with the democratic process, did not oppose the change. Sibisi affirmed the municipality’s acceptance of the decision, stating: “The application was brought forward by some people who reside in our municipality. We also as a municipality did not object to that. Since the change has been approved, we are OK with that because our people chose the name of their town – changing from Ladysmith to uMnambithi.”
This underscores the local community’s involvement and consent in the renaming process, reflecting a sense of unity and identity among the residents.
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