Durban: The uMhlanga Lighthouse has been described as an essential component in guiding vessels at sea.
The 70th anniversary of the uMhlanga Lighthouse was marked in Durban yesterday.
The event was hosted by uMhlanga Tourism and the South African Association of Ship Operators and Agents (Saasoa), with Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) as a key speaker.
Captain Sabelo Mdlalose, executive manager Lighthouse and Navigational Systems at TNPA, said the lighthouse started operating on November 25, 1954.
“The light was first lit in the night on 25 November in 1954. The lighthouse is situated along the uMhlanga promenade, approximately 15 km from Durban central; it's a 21-metre tall concrete tower that is painted white with a red top and red lantern house. The rotation lens system produces three flashes every 20 seconds.”
Mdlalose added that TNPA is mandated by the National Ports Act 12 of 2005 to provide and operate maintained lighthouses.
“Along with other marine aids for navigation to assist with the navigation of vessels within commercial ports and along the coast of South Africa. A Marine ATON (Aids to Navigation) is a system designed to enhance the safety and efficiency of vessel navigation. Lighthouses, beacons and buoys are the most common types of visual ATON.”
Mdlalose added that the light was automated and not manned.
“It is not open to visitors, and the scheduled maintenance is carried out by teams from TNPA situated in Durban. During the scheduled service and maintenance visits, the team checks on the light and the standby engine. We have a standby engine in case there are issues with power.”
Saasoa CEO Peter Besnard said that the celebration of the 70th anniversary of uMhlanga Lighthouse was a momentous occasion.
“We are pleased to celebrate this event with uMhlanga Tourism and Transnet and welcome TNPA's commitment and willingness to work together with the maritime industry in navigating through the exceptionally stormy seas that exist.”
Besnard added that they consider TNPA their close partner in working together for the overall improvement and betterment of the maritime and port industry.
“Transnet faces ongoing and significant challenges in the port industry, ranging from the lack of usable equipment to severe congestion. We should not lose sight of the contribution which the current Transnet leadership and Transnet staff are making towards overcoming these challenges.”
UMhlanga Tourism chairperson Jeannie Sarno said that the lighthouse is an iconic symbol.
“This lighthouse is well known around South Africa. We knew in January this year we had to plan something to celebrate 70 years of the lighthouse. I was approached by a local bartender who came to our offices and he started to explain how important the lighthouse is to him. He said that it was a symbol of hope and guidance to vessels. It's not only a symbol of guidance to vessels; it's a sign of light and direction to us.”
Sarno added that uMhlanga Tourism will host a series of events under the banner of ‘Lighthouse Week’.
“Throughout ‘Lighthouse Week’, uMhlanga Tourism will offer guided tours of the lighthouse. Visitors and locals alike will have the chance to explore its history, architecture and contributions to the maritime industry. These tours aim to educate and inspire, fostering greater appreciation for the lighthouse’s role in the community.”
The lighthouse tours begin today.