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If this is your attraction, you can let us know if anything on this page is outdated or contains inaccuracies, by email.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

Lymegrove Beach Villa
Just steps from the golden sands of Umdloti Beach along KwaZulu-Natal’s famed Dolphin Coast, Lymegrove Beach Villa (sleeps ight) offers an elegan...

Oyster Quays 704
704 Oyster Quays is a sophisticated and spacious three-bedroom apartment offering luxury accommodation in Umhlanga Rocks. Accommodating up to six...

Queensburgh B&B and Self Catering
Queensburgh Cottages offers Bed and Breakfast or self-catering accommodation in Queensburgh, within easy reach of Durban Central. Durban is South...

The Pearls Apartment Dawn
The Pearls, Apartment Dawn is situated on the 11th floor in the magnificent resort known as the Pearls of Umhlanga, the most sought-after address...

Almost Heaven B&B
Located in Durban North, Almost Heaven B&B offers bed and breakfast accommodation close to the activities and attractions Durban has to offer. Al...

Umdloti Resort 515
Umdloti Resort 515 is situated in the seaside holiday village of Umdloti. The studio apartment is situated in a secure block, has lovely sea view...

The Boshoff
The Boshoff is an elegantly styled, private house offering Durban accommodation in the popular area of Bluff. From here you are situated within 2...

The Shades 13
Designed to accommodate up to four guests, the apartment comprises two beautifully furnished bedrooms and two modern bathrooms. Opening directly...

Bluff Eco Park
Bluff Eco Park is an 11 hectare natural park that offers a unique 'Green Living' experience. Self-catering accommodation accommodation is offered...
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